Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors
Call today to volunteer! (360) 788-6533
The problem:
Over 15,000 Whatcom County residents have no health insurance. Many others have questions about how to access appropriate, affordable healthcare. Understanding and paying for health care is a challenge. People need answers.
The solution:
SHIBA HelpLine volunteers make the difference. SHIBA HelpLine is a statewide network of trained volunteers who educate, assist and advocate for people about their rights and options regarding health insurance and health care access, so consumers can make informed choices. SHIBA HelpLine volunteers provide free, unbiased, confidential counseling and education. They answer questions, distribute printed information, give community presentations, help with research, or assist with office work. A free counseling service of the Washington Office of the Insurance Commissioner (OIC), the Whatcom SHIBA HelpLine is sponsored by the Whatcom Alliance for Healthcare Access.
You can do it!
Volunteers receive in-depth training and are supported by staff and volunteer mentors. They learn how to help family, friends, and other community members understand their rights and options and make informed decisions about health care. They can work in community outreach centers, at the SHIBA HelpLine office located in Bellingham or from home. While a one-year volunteer commitment is requested, scheduling is flexible and duties assigned according to individual volunteer’s interests and availability. Click here for details about SHIBA HelpLine Volunteer roles and responsibilities.
The rewards of volunteering:
In addition to the satisfaction of helping people understand their healthcare options, SHIBA HelpLine volunteers gain professional training that can be applied to career, family or community interests. SHIBA HelpLine volunteers may also specialize in areas that they are passionate about—such as:
- Seniors
- Families
- Children
- Underserved communities
- Russian, Spanish and other languages
How to get involved:
Call the local Whatcom SHIBA HelpLine office today for an information packet: (360) 788-6533. Or, print this online form and mail it to:
Whatcom SHIBA HelpLine
800 E. Chestnut, LL Ste2
Bellingham, WA 98225
Special volunteer opportunities are available for:
- College students: Interested in a healthcare career? Looking for great résumé builder? Become a SHIBA HelpLine volunteer or set up an internship with Whatcom SHIBA HelpLine for credit in your academic program.
- Seniors: Are you frustrated with how difficult it is to navigate healthcare options? Or have you been helped by a SHIBA HelpLine volunteer and want to join in the good work? Become a SHIBA HelpLine volunteer to connect others to the information they need.
- Communities of faith: Is healthcare a mission of your church, synagogue, mosque or other faith community? Have several of your members trained as SHIBA HelpLine Volunteers to give timely, accurate information to your fellowship about healthcare options for seniors, children, families, low-income people and more.
