Thank you to our SHIBA volunteers!

In honor of National Volunteer Week, Insurance Commissioner Mike Kreidler recognizes more than 400 people across Washington who volunteer their time and effort to help people access health care.

Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors (SHIBA) provide free, unbiased counseling and outreach about Medicare and other health care choices. In 2013, SHIBA volunteers contributed nearly 86,000 hours to helping more than 54,000 citizens, representing $2 million in labor costs.

"During National Volunteer Week, we celebrate the accomplishments of our dedicated volunteers and we recognize their contributions to their communities,” said Kreidler. “Volunteers are an invaluable resource and we appreciate their dedication and support.”

You can find a SHIBA office near you or learn about becoming a SHIBA volunteer.

SHIBA volunteers help sign up people for Medicare this year.