BANGOR — Volunteers share their time, talent, and compassion to support the mission of Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center. National Volunteer Appreciation Week, April 21–25, is a time to honor the extraordinary contributions of the medical center’s volunteers and recognize the meaningful difference they make every day.
In 2024 229 individuals, including 86 high school students, generously volunteered their time to the hospital on State St., at Northern Light Health Center on Union St. and at the Northern Light Cancer Care in Brewer. Together, they contributed an astounding 16,800 hours of service.
Volunteers serve in more than 60 areas throughout Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center, offering companionship and enrichment to long-stay patients, conducting pet therapy visits, escorting visitors, providing resources and comfort to patients with cancer, supporting retail operations at the Maine Café and Gift Shop, and assisting with clerical, administrative, and special projects. They also enhance community connections by checking in on vulnerable individuals through Caring Calls. The contributions are woven into nearly every part of the patient and visitor experience.
“Our volunteers are the heart of our community engagement team. They inspire us with their kindness, reliability, and unwavering commitment to care,” said Stacey Coventry, director, Community Engagement, Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center. “Whether it’s a high school student exploring healthcare, a retiree offering decades of experience, or a team of employees joining together to give back — every one of their contributions builds a stronger, more compassionate healthcare community.”
Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center’s Community Impact Team, comprised of employees who volunteer both within the medical center walls and in our community’s backyard, continues to grow each year as well — demonstrating that service is at the heart of where our employees live every day.
“Our volunteers don’t serve for accolades,” Coventry adds. “They consistently show up to make a difference — sharing their care with a smile, humor and grace. Their presence reminds us that the best kind of healing comes not just from medicine, but from human connection. We’re so grateful to each and every one.”
To learn more about volunteer opportunities at Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center and ways to get involved, visit northernlighthealth.org/volunteering or contact Coventry at [email protected] or 207-973-7851.
