National Volunteer Week was established in 1974 and has grown exponentially each year. Although things are a bit different this year due to the restrictions of COVID-19, we would still like to shine a light on the people who so freely serve, recognizing and thanking volunteers who lend their time, voice, and passion to make a difference in their communities.
During 2019, ARHS had 212 volunteers who gave 16,489 hours of their time and talents toward making a difference to the people of the High Country. They contributed to and supported 45 different job services including visiting patients, pastoral services, blood drives, and working in our gift shops.
“I consider all of these amazing volunteers to be the real heartbeat of our system,” said Sallie Woodring, ARHS Director of Volunteer Services. “Every day they bring to our hospitals and affiliates within ARHS all of their many talents to share with our patients, staff and visitors.”
Doing good comes in many forms and we are truly thankful for our volunteers who serve as an inspiration to us all.
For more information on volunteering at ARHS please contact Sallie Woodring at swoodring@apprhs.org or visit Appalachian Regional Healthcare System at www.apprhs.org/volunteer/.
Roger Mashke began volunteering at Cannon Memorial Hospital after the staff cared for his wife. Read Roger’s story >
More stories from our volunteers
Roger’s Reason: Finding purpose in volunteering
From the very beginning, Roger Mashke has always had a knack for interacting with and helping people. Whether it was running a successful television business or working as a volunteer firefighter, leaving a positive impact on another individual has always been his main source of motivation. That’s why when given the opportunity to volunteer for Charles A. Cannon Jr. Memorial Hospital, he knew it was what he wanted to do. Four years later, Mashke is still one of the most dedicated volunteers we have at Cannon Memorial Hospital and Appalachian Regional Healthcare System (ARHS) as a whole. Read More: Roger’s Reason: Finding purpose in volunteering
Volunteer Susie Morgan is retired and ‘refired’ after a career at ASU
Hi! My name is Susan (Susie) Morgan and I have been a volunteer in the Gift Shop at the Watauga Medical Center since October of 2016. I retired from Appalachian State University in 2015 after 20 years in various positions, most recently as Director of Academic Testing. Read More: Volunteer Susie Morgan is retired and ‘refired’ after a career at ASU
Barbara Robinson: 12 years of volunteer service
Barbara Robinson has been volunteering at WMC since 2006. She currently volunteers in radiation oncology and is a true blessing to anyone she meets. Read More: Barbara Robinson: 12 years of volunteer service
Cancer Center Volunteer Dema Spann
Dema Spann has been a wonderful asset to the Seby Jones cancer center since she started volunteering there in 2011. Read More: Cancer Center Volunteer Dema Spann
Fran Greenfield steals the show as a “swing” volunteer at Watauga Medical Center
Fran relishes the chance to assist the professionals she encounters at Watauga Medical Center; and she applauds the many dedicated volunteers who selflessly give of their time and energy. Read More: Fran Greenfield steals the show as a “swing” volunteer at Watauga Medical Center
Volunteer Spotlight: Carol Hinshaw
Watauga Medical Center volunteer Carol Hinshaw is one of the smiling and friendly faces you might see when you visit the hospital’s gift shop. Read More: Volunteer Spotlight: Carol Hinshaw
A 20-year volunteer shares her story
Watauga Medical Center volunteer Mary Lee Jones has been a faithful volunteer for twenty years. She is a constant in her role and a real blessing to all who cross her path. Below in her own words, Mary Lee shares what brought her to the WMC volunteer family and what it has meant in her life. Read More: A 20-year volunteer shares her story
Volunteer Spotlight: Jim and Elaine Jones
Volunteers find their way to ARHS for a myriad of reasons. Long time WMC volunteers Elaine & Jim Jones have been volunteering since 2003. Read More: Volunteer Spotlight: Jim and Elaine Jones
