It’s National Volunteer Week and we celebrate all those helping others in need across America.
Special thanks and appreciation to the many volunteers who support our Empath Health integrated network of care in Tampa Bay. They shine as lights of inspiration, dedicating their energy and compassion to change lives in our community at some of the most challenging times in life.
There are lots of ways you can make an impact at Empath Health. Teens, adults, military veterans and business and community groups are invited to serve in a variety of administrative, fundraising, care and other essential roles. We’d love for you to join our mission. See below how volunteering enriches the lives of our 2016 Volunteers of the Year:
Mr. and Mrs. Phelps
Betty and Philip Phelps – Mary J. Labyak Legacy Award
Began September 1998
Patient and Family Support – Bronze Team
Previous volunteer experience with Yellow Team, Transitions Companion, Reiki, Speakers Network and Community Outreach
What does your service mean to you?
“I love volunteering,” Mrs. Phelps said.
“I retired and wanted to stay active in my community. I’ve gotten a lot out of it. Every day is different. It’s rewarding to help people. I almost can’t wait until the next patient I have to see,” Mr. Phelps said.
Watt
Ingrid Watt – Miriam “Bunny” Flarsheim Award – Patient/Family Support Volunteer Began April 1993
Patient and Family Support – Yellow Team, Reiki
Previous volunteer experience with Burgundy Team, Red Team, North Pinellas Care Center, Bereavement and Special Events
What does your service mean to you?
“My mother used to make visits in a nursing home. I wanted to do this because she did so much to help people. I just love it. I enjoy doing Reiki. It’s great when I leave from Reiki sessions and my patients are sound asleep in peace,” Watt said.
Volunteer Coordinator Alexandra Boyd, Jeskey and Senior Volunteer Coordinator Melissa Givens
Illona Jeskey – Organizational Support Volunteer Award Began July 2009
Clearwater Welcome Center – Finance and Purchasing Departments
What does your service mean to you?
“I totally enjoy coming in to volunteer. It gives me pleasure to help out and it’s good for me because it gets me out of the house. I look forward to doing different jobs. It’s fun.”
Teen Volunteer Morgan Fox, Regan and Teen Volunteer Heather Fox
Ryan Regan – Outstanding Young Leader Award Began January 2014
Teen Volunteer Palm Harbor – Cheer Team, North Pinellas Care Center and Special Events
What does your service mean to you?
“My great-grandmother had our hospice care and everybody was very nice. I have a lot of friends who volunteer here. I enjoy brightening the days of our patients and families and making the best out of a difficult situation,” Regan said.
Mrs. Joy Estes and husband Bob
Robert “Bob” Estes – Specialized Volunteer Service Award Began October 2010
Patient and Family Support – Lavender Team, Ambassador Program, Reiki, Aromatherapy, Pet Therapy, Veterans Program and Special Events
What does your service mean to you?
“I wanted to get involved with something before I retired and give back for all that our hospice did for my mother. It’s an inspiration spending time with my patients,” Estes said.
Jackson
Karen Jackson – Empath Health Member Award Began August 2008
Community Health – Perinatal Loss Doula Program
What does your service mean to you?
“I feel so blessed to be able to do this amazing work,” Jackson said.
Join Us
Are you ready to make a difference in your life and to others? Join an upcoming volunteer training to find out how you can help support Empath Health.