Baby Talk | Hospital's volunteers are vital, valuable

When people think of hospitals and the people who work in a hospital they usually think of doctors, nurses, physical therapists, Pharmacy, laboratory personnel, and the support services.

All of those people are very important and they indeed are the primary care givers to the patients. However the unsung heroes of the hospital are the volunteers.

The volunteers are the friendly faces that greet visitors and patients as they enter the lobby of the hospital. They are the first impression that many people have of the hospital.

The volunteers are a myriad of people that have dedicated their time and treasure to serve others. They feel an obligation to give of themselves and their talents. They understand the impact of a generous spirit.

The volunteers are a network of caring individuals that share a passion for giving of themselves for the greater good of others. I must also say, they are all so nice.

They have a dynamic impact on our community within the hospital. They are appreciated more than they can ever imagine.

Volunteers, whether it is in a hospital or being on a mission trip or working at a marathon, all share common qualities.

Volunteers bring energy and passion. Their energy is contagious to all those around them. They are doing a task because they feel passionate that their contribution is going to make a difference in someone's life.

The energy that they bring as individuals is multiplied as they come together. I have had the awesome experience of being in a room with literally thousands of volunteers getting ready to go out and complete their volunteer task. The energy is literally palpable.

Being a good volunteer also requires being flexible. Volunteers have a willingness to adapt to changing situations. They must work with an open mind and be able to "go with the flow."

Volunteering is rarely an unguided experience. As a group volunteers have an understanding that they must be patient, have good listening skills, and know when to leave decisions to those in charge. It is really knowing how to work with others.

Volunteers also appreciate that just because they are not paid, doesn't mean that they are not responsible to the organization that they are volunteering with. Our volunteers wear teal shirts. They know that when they have that teal shirt on they are representing every other person who is also wearing a teal shirt and the organization that they are volunteering for. Integrity and responsibility, such as being on time, is as important for the volunteers as it is for paid employees. Others are depending on them and they know it.

Volunteers understand the importance of always being professional. That means being on time and being well groomed for the task. That grooming is not only physical appearance, but feeling prepared to accomplish what ever the job might be.

Volunteering is a commitment of time, energy and sharing. Volunteering also is very rewarding, especially when you do it over and over again with the same group.

I am very thankful for each and every volunteer. As a group they are recognized by their teal shirts, but as individuals they are recognized for their warmth and kindness.

Many of them are retired, however some are still working. Each of them inspires me with their generous spirit. They occupy a special place in our hearts.

They are necessary for the hospital's success.

Katie Powers, R.N., is a board-certified lactation consultant and perinatal educator at Manatee Memorial Hospital's Family BirthPlace. Her column appears every other week in Healthy Living. Contact her at katie.powers@mmhhs.com.

This story was originally published October 12, 2015 at 4:39 PM with the headline "Baby Talk | Hospital's volunteers are vital, valuable ."