From the Heart: Overlake Volunteers Share Why They Give Back
In celebration of National Volunteer Week, we’re proud to recognize our incredible volunteers who give their time, compassion and talents to support patients, families and care teams across Overlake. Their impact is felt in meaningful, everyday moments — offering comfort, connection and kindness when it matters most. Hear, in their own words, what volunteering means to them:
"My favorite venue to play at is Overlake hospital. I enjoy being part of a larger team of volunteers, and even more broadly, people who care about patients and the people supporting them. Often, multiple times a day, people stop by to engage with me, sometimes thanking me for playing. Sometimes they’re musicians, and enjoy talking shop, or in a few cases, have even sung a couple of tunes while I accompanied them." – Steve, Healing Arts volunteer, pianist
“After open heart surgery in 2018, I felt so grateful for life! I wanted to give back. I wrote notes to each nurse who cared for me and nominated my main nurse for the Daisy Award, which she won! But I wanted to do more. If I were rich, I would have written Overlake a big fat check, but I'm not, so I started volunteering. My goal was to encourage heart patients and get my steps in. And I do! Every week, I meet with nervous heart patients who relax when they hear I've been there and see how well I'm doing. It's a joy! And my step count's pretty good, too.” – Mardi, transport volunteer
“Volunteer services are soulfully about the heart. The way we love, serve and encourage our community. From the talents we are given.” – Chad, Healing Arts volunteer, pianist
“18 years of volunteering! The years have been wonderful and rewarding. I enjoy everyone on the staff and my partners over the years.” – Estelle, lobby and concierge desk volunteer
“Woof, woof…woof. Woof. SQUIRREL. Woof, woof.” – Nala, Healing Arts volunteer, pet therapy
“Volunteering at Overlake has shown me how small acts of care can make a big difference in someone’s day!” – Rima, medical unit volunteer
“I used to work at Overlake years ago. Now, coming back to work as a volunteer is very special. It is meaningful to be able to help at the place that holds my heart, which is also such a treasure in the community. The staff are great and always so appreciative.” – Ginger, clinical education admin volunteer
“Volunteering at Overlake allows me to give back to my community and fills my heart with joy.” – Ana, transport volunteer
“Overlake is one of the best places to volunteer. You feel welcomed and very appreciated. I’ve volunteered here for many years and have loved every minute. At the concierge desk and in breast health, I feel that I’m helping people who often are nervous and stressed. It’s very rewarding.” – Kate, lobby & concierge volunteer, breast health volunteer
“Volunteering at Overlake has allowed me to connect with people of all walks of life and make someone's day a little brighter!" – Zoe, surgical services volunteer
“I wanted three things from this job: exercise, social interactions and to help people. All three are being met.” – Nathan, transport volunteer
