QEII Halifax Infirmary Emergency Department is working with reduced space, which may lead to delays for those with less urgent concerns. Learn more here.
Nova Scotia Health has made changes to parking and the main entrance of the QEII Halifax Infirmary. Learn more.
With The Heart of Health series, we’re shining a light on the many dedicated employees, physicians, learners and volunteers who make Nova Scotia Health such a remarkable place to work and receive care. Today we’re featuring Soroush Moghaddam, assistant manager of Volunteer Services.
Soroush Moghaddam, assistant manager of Volunteer Services for Nova Scotia Health, considers volunteerism to be “at the very core of what it is to live from the heart - thinking compassionately, giving when you can without any expectations.” In his role, he supports volunteer resource consultants and coordinators, making sure they have what they need to engage with volunteers and staff.
“Volunteering is very important to me,” said Soroush. “Ever since my early 20s, I have volunteered for various organizations. Every time I moved, I found a nearby volunteer organization and volunteered.”
When Soroush moved to Antigonish, he quickly signed on to volunteer with the Antigonish County Adult Learning Association (ACALA). He wanted to volunteer at St. Martha’s Regional Hospital, too, but there was no volunteer resources consultant in place at the time. Several months later, he saw the job advertised and thought, “This is exactly what I’m looking for.” He started working in that role in 2018 and moved into the provincial assistant manager role in June 2023.
“I’m really privileged to have this position,” said Soroush. “It’s where my personal interests connect with my professional interests. The success of my work, ultimately, enhances the satisfaction and happiness of patients and visitors. There’s a heart connection in making sure patients, families and visitors are in a safe and welcoming environment and volunteers feel supported.”
What are the greatest rewards for Soroush? “Being in the position that I am, supporting volunteer coordinators and volunteer resource consultants. What brings me joy now, is seeing the staff in our facilities recognizing and appreciating volunteers. When I hear from staff how great volunteers are, how well volunteer programs are working, how much they appreciate Volunteer Services staff, that’s rewarding.”
Soroush said the positive energy around volunteering at Nova Scotia Health also keeps him going. “Around me, there are a lot of people who are so positive, whether I’m talking about volunteer coordinators, consultants or volunteers themselves, everyone is so passionate.”
“Our wellbeing is a valuable asset that we all aim to improve. Being well, being healthy, being involved in a sector that revolves around compassion, healing and health is very meaningful to me, so personally, seeing the impact, the happiness, that volunteers bring, that adds value to my own life, my own happiness level.”
We want to learn and share your stories. What keeps you going, despite challenges? What does working in health and health care mean to you, both personally and professionally? Who is that colleague or teammate that makes going to work easier when things feel hard?
Whether you’ve had a defining moment that reaffirmed your purpose or want to recognize a colleague who embodies the heart of health, share your story with us. Let’s celebrate each other! E-mail: heartofhealth@nshealth.ca