I wanted to take a moment in April to recognize National Volunteer Month and extend my heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you who contribute your time and energy to volunteering.
Our UVA Health volunteers are instrumental in caring for our patients. Whether they're comforting or escorting patients, cuddling newborns, serving meals, or brightening someone's day with flowers, their impact resonates deeply within our walls. With over 50 diverse volunteer programs, there's truly something for everyone to get involved in, enriching both our patients' experiences and our own.
I also want to acknowledge those among us who extend their compassionate efforts beyond our medical center, volunteering at locations like the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank and the Charlottesville Free Clinic. Your selflessness and dedication to serving those in need are truly commendable and a source of inspiration.
At UVA Health, we recognize our responsibility to our community and the importance of giving back. We proudly support various volunteer organizations throughout Charlottesville, fostering a culture of service and compassion that extends far beyond our hospital doors.
Volunteerism isn't just about giving; it's about finding joy in service. As poet Rabindranath Tagore beautifully expressed, "I slept and dreamt that life was joy. I awoke and saw that life was service. I acted and behold, service was joy." Whether it's giving your time, skills, or simply small acts of kindness, volunteering is a profound source of fulfillment and joy.
On a personal note, I find immense joy in volunteering with local organizations that provide support and resources to underprivileged communities. As a member of the Habitat for Humanity board, I love playing a role in providing housing solutions for members of our Charlottesville community. It's a humbling experience that continuously reminds me of the power of compassion and the importance of giving back.
As we celebrate National Volunteer Month, let's continue to embody the spirit of service to make a positive difference in the lives of those around us. And take a moment to thank one of our volunteers if you see them around the medical center! It’s thanks to these giving individuals that we can truly create a brighter, more compassionate world.
Take care and be well,
Wendy