Mount Nittany Health Foundation is pleased to recognize April 16 – 22, as National Volunteer Week, a time when we celebrate the friendly faces in the blue coats that brighten our days. At Mount Nittany Medical Center we are fortunate to have more than 50 incredible volunteers who go above and beyond to help us provide compassionate care to the community. From greeting patients with warm smiles, to helping guests find their loved ones, to assisting with everyone’s favorite “Milkshake Monday” in the Gift Shop, they bring extra hands and a ton of heart to everything they do.
As part of Volunteer Week, we asked some of our team members to express what the Blue Coat Brigade means to them, and they were more than happy to share their thoughts:
“We are so grateful for all the volunteers do for Mount Nittany Health. They support us in multiple ways and help us so we can provide the best possible care to our patients. A huge thank you to our wonderful volunteers! We are so lucky to have you.” – Amber Shaw, RN, Manager, ICU/PCU
“I missed seeing the volunteers each day, and I am so happy they are back!” – Jo “Joann” Estright, Culinary Services
“Volunteers are a big help, not just physically, but mentally as well. They help me see the light in each day, and it is a joy to laugh about family and work with them. We are so lucky to have such incredible volunteers in the Gift Shop.” – Rexine Schrum, Gift Shop Manager, Culinary Services
“Our volunteers are very helpful when they are on duty. They go above and beyond to help not only the patients, but the staff as well.” – Paige Otto, Patient Access Representative, Mount Nittany Medical Center
“We are so thankful for our volunteers. They do not realize how much of a positive impact they have on our overall environment. I remember the first day that volunteers were allowed back in the Emergency Department. Dave was the first one and was met with cheers and applause at our 0645 huddle!” – Adam Hoover, Manager, Emergency Department
Other quotes from Emergency Department staff:
- “The Emergency Department appreciates all you do!”
- “Volunteers make a huge difference!”
- “Although night shift staff typically don’t get to see their faces, we certainly see their efforts and we are so grateful for their presence in the Emergency Department.”
- “They always bring a smile and are happy to help out. We very much appreciate all they do!”
“The volunteers are an integral part of the health system team. They provide support for our staff and care for our patients. Without them, we would not be able to run as efficiently as we do. Thank you to all the volunteers, we greatly appreciate everything you do!” – Ali Kollar, MSN, BSN, NP-C, RN, Manager, Endoscopy
“We are always so grateful for the care and compassion the volunteers provide to our patients, visitors, and guests. They are always willing to help when needed and show such a great dedication to the mission and values of Mount Nittany Health.” – Heather Gillan, Patient Access Manager, Mount Nittany Medical Center
“We greatly appreciate everything they do for our team and Mount Nittany Health. Each volunteer always has a smile on their face and they are willing to do anything that is asked. We can’t thank them enough for all the hard work and dedication they bring each day.” – Craig Hamilton, Manager, Culinary Services
This week, please join us in saying a heartfelt thank you to our volunteers by leaving a comment on Connect, or better yet, expressing your gratitude when you see their smiling faces in the Medical Center. This week and every week, we are so grateful for all they do, and for contributing to our mission of “Healthier people, stronger community.”
Individuals interested in learning more about volunteering with Mount Nittany Health Foundation are encouraged to visit: https://foundation.mountnittany.org/volunteer.