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“Volunteerism is the voice of the people put into action. These actions shape and mold the present into a future of which we can all be proud.” – Helen Dyer
This is a time of perseverance and gratitude.
These are two qualities you can see in any hospital in California — from the gritty, purposeful work of caregivers to the people who can barely find the right words to show appreciation for those who have given them a second chance at life.
You can also see them, vividly, in the thousands upon thousands of women and men who volunteer at hospitals. They are the selfless bringers of hope and joy to people in times of uncertainty and pain.
And they deserve our thanks, especially during a time when their calling has been curtailed by the pandemic, and they may be feeling frustrated in fulfilling their personal missions.
Through Saturday, our country celebrates National Volunteer Week — an opportunity to recognize the impact of volunteer service and the power of volunteers who lend their time, talent, and voice to make a difference in their communities.
To help, we’ve set up a web page where you can share with us the creative ways you are honoring your volunteers. Some ideas include:
- Share your story of gratitude about a volunteer who has made a difference in your hospital
- Show your appreciation on social media using #VolunteerstheHeartofHealthcare
- Plan fun and safe events
- Use Zoom for virtual interaction
- Create drive-through experiences
- Mail or email special greetings
- Recognize volunteers for awards or hours of service
- Ask hospital leadership and staff to share their messages of thanks
In times of challenge, we all look to our anchors. For decades, hospital volunteers have been anchors for our patients, our workforce, our communities as a whole. This week, I hope you’ll join me in showing them how much they mean to all of us.
~CARMELA
