UnityPoint Health – Sioux City Celebrates National Volunteer Appreciation Week

UnityPoint Health – Sioux City would like to recognize our 47 volunteers who are integral to our team during National Volunteer Appreciation Week. In 2022 these volunteers gave a total of 4,876 hours helping patients, visitors and team members.

“Our volunteers are so important because they are able to provide the extra support our patients and visitors need,” says Mary O’Brien, manager of Volunteer Services at UnityPoint Health – St. Luke’s. “They can come in and make somebody’s day by doing a simple task like providing directions or getting a cup of coffee.”

Last year volunteers visited 5,000 patient rooms, handed out 3,790 cups of water and coffee, made 460 comfort care blankets and completed 9,066 random acts of kindness. They also assisted with annual community events such as Santa’s House and the Sioux City Easter Egg Hunt.

“As a NICU cuddler, every time I hold a baby, it is like I am given a gift,” says Connie Guenthner, volunteer at St. Luke’s. “It’s such a rewarding experience.”

Each year the third week of April is recognized as National Volunteer Appreciation Week to recognize and thank those who serve as a volunteer. April is also observed as Global Volunteer Month.

UnityPoint Health – Sioux City has many different volunteer opportunities for individuals depending on their interests. Some volunteer positions include working in the hospital gift shop, helping at the information desks, preparing care carts, greeting patients at Sunnybrook Medical Plaza and more. Volunteers can be as young as 14 years old making it a great opportunity for students to get involved in their community.

Those interested in becoming a volunteer can apply on our website, unitypoint.org, or contact Mary O’Brien at (712) 279-3220.