Fitzgibbon Hospital Volunteers

Fitzgibbon Hospital Volunteers make a difference by providing many extra services that supplement the essential functions of the professional staff. Volunteers improve the quality of health care by helping patients and their families, the staff, visitors, and the community. As ambassadors to the community, Volunteers promote an understanding of the hospital and its services to their families and friends. In the process, Volunteers acquire a sense of satisfaction and heightened self-esteem.

Volunteers work in a variety of service areas throughout the Fitzgibbon organization. These include clerical offices, nursing units, nutritional services, hospice, The Living Center, at the information desk and in surgery waiting rooms.

Adult Volunteers provide services as members of the Fitzgibbon Hospital Auxiliary, and youth age 13 and older are encouraged to join the Green Team.

The Fitzgibbon Hospital Auxiliary was formed in 1966 with the goal of raising funds to aid the hospital and to provide volunteers to help in various areas throughout the facility.

The Auxiliary raises funds trough such activities as the Annual Chili Luncheon & Bazaar, book sales, jewelry sales, bake sales, and a cookout. Since 1966, the Auxiliary has donated approximately $485,000 to Fitzgibbon Hospital to provide medical equipment and new or expanded services.

They currently have Volunteers working in the hospital gift shop, the information desk, and the surgery waiting room as well as at The Living Center.

The Green Team is made up of 15 teenage boys and girls who not only volunteer throughout the hospital and at The Living Center, but who also help with special projects such as the annual Christmas Tea, and the community-wide Relay for Life.

Volunteers need no special training to get involved with helping at Fitzgibbon Hospital. Everyone who shows interest in the program is interviewed, and special talents and personal schedules are matched to the hospital’s needs. Most Volunteers donate one time slot per week, consisting of two to four hours. However, additional hours are always available.

While Volunteers offer their services free of charge to Fitzgibbon Hospital and its affiliates, they do receive many benefits. They have a chance to learn new skills while making new friends and developing new interests. Younger Volunteers use the opportunity to do some career exploration, and they realize the benefits of having a background in volunteer service when they make application for further education or employment. Most of all, Volunteers receive the satisfaction that comes from being needed and doing something worthwhile that helps others. People who volunteer often discover unexpected benefits. They feel good about themselves because they are giving of their time and talents. In addition, they often develop close friendships with staff members and other volunteers.

For more information about Fitzgibbon Hospital’s Volunteer Services (660) 831-3257 or by e-mail at volunteers@fitzgibbon.org, or by writing to: