Union County Hospital welcomes community volunteers

It’s refreshing to see that the spirit of volunteerism is still alive in many communities.

Yet when it comes to "me" actually getting out there, a multitude of excuses arise: the commitment and time factor, age, and fear of not being able to make certain days.

It’s easy to find excuses for just about anything. But why should volunteering be a significant aspect of one’s life?

“Volunteering is about taking part in the world, no matter what the age, and giving back to the community that is there for us each day,” said Mary Nash-Swink.

She is community services coordinator at Union County Hospital in Anna.

“It’s about making the planet a better place to live and, believe it or not, any small step helps," she said.

Some people simply want to do something good for others, and there are those who want to do something for themselves, such as learn a new skill or meet new people.

Still others were at one point in their lives recipients of volunteerism and truly want to give back.

"It doesn’t matter the task or project, nor does it matter if you only have a small amount of time each month to give," Nash-Swink said.

"Volunteering can be as simple as handing out juice at a blood drive, assisting at a health fair, reading, or even licking envelopes and stamps for a mailing.

"You may not be able to lift heavy boxes for an event, but there are lots of behind the scenes ways that volunteers make an event come together.

“All you really need is motivation, a positive attitude and a willingness to learn,” Nash-Swink said.

“Volunteering should not be like work or time consuming, but fun.”

At Union County Hospital, volunteers are utilized to assist patients and staff members throughout the hospital.

“Our volunteer application will capture an individual’s areas of interest, which will help with placement,” Nash-Swink explained.

“Our volunteers add a personal touch to help provide comfort to patients and family members, as well as provide service and support to hospital staff.” 

Currently, Union County Hospital has 20 adult volunteers and two teen volunteers.  

"Volunteering is a great way for teens to gain real work experience and for college students to fulfill volunteer hours for school while receiving personal satisfaction knowing they’ve done something for someone else in need," Nash-Swink said.

"Volunteering can be personally satisfying, challenging and fun when one uses his or her skills, talents and free time to benefit others. It shifts the daily self-survival and interest focus to others who aren’t as fortunate. With the right perspective, one can’t give without also receiving back."

Union County Hospital is seeking volunteers to assist with activities in its long-term care unit and within other areas of the hospital.

For more information about the volunteer program at Union County Hospital, contact Mary Nash-Swink at 618-833-4511, extension 4359.