If anyone understands that some of life’s greatest rewards come from serving others, Kim Mayer and Dianne Guthrie do. Thanks to their roles as volunteer supervisors – Mayer for Ascension St. Vincent’s East, Ascension St. Vincent’s St. Clair, and Ascension St. Vincent’s Blount; Guthrie for Ascension St. Vincent’s Birmingham, Ascension St. Vincent’s Chilton, and Ascension St. Vincent’s One Nineteen – they see each day how satisfying service to others can be.
“Volunteerism gives individuals a feeling of being a part of a greater mission, a feeling of giving back to the community and a feeling of helping others,” says Mayer. “It brings individuals into an environment which has a purpose, and they can feel like they are a part of a family.”
Mayer’s and Guthrie’s responsibilities include recruiting, training, placing, and supporting volunteers at their respective facilities. They also regularly communicate with hospital administrators, department managers, and directors to ensure that the volunteers are meeting each facility’s needs, as well as to address any additional needs or special projects.
Volunteers, says Mayer, are young and old, come from a variety of backgrounds, and feel a strong need to give back to their communities. While many are juggling volunteer commitments with other obligations, others are retired but still have plenty of dedication, compassion, and wisdom to bring to the volunteer table.
“Volunteerism gives individuals a feeling of being a part of a greater mission, a feeling of giving back to the community and a feeling of helping others.”
Mayer’s greatest need for volunteers is at information desks. She also, however, has needs in gift shops, surgery waiting, cardiac rehab, outpatient labs, same-day surgery, bariatric education, and cancer treatment center. Guthrie needs bow makers, extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion, information desk volunteers, GI transporters, wayfinders, and Christmas stocking makers.
Guthrie often cites a favorite quote by author Sherry Anderson to illustrate how she views the volunteers she works with: “Volunteers don’t get paid, not because they are worthless, but because they are priceless.”
“Every time I am around our volunteers, I am inspired by their servants’ heart, as I see how they live out our mission each day,” she says. “Their actions, words, and deeds are great examples of Christ’s compassion and love for others.”
Anyone interested in becoming a volunteer at Ascension St. Vincent’s East, Ascension St. Vincent’s St. Clair, or Ascension St. Vincent’s Blount can reach Kim Mayer at 205-838-3265. Those wanting to volunteer at Ascension St. Vincent’s Birmingham, Ascension St. Vincent’s Chilton, or Ascension St. Vincent’s One Nineteen should call Dianne Guthrie at 205-939-7186.