Volunteers Log 510 Days of Service

MCH marked National Volunteer Month in April by honoring nearly 90 individuals who volunteered a total of 12,228 hours, or nearly 510 days, in 2025.

Some volunteers logged more than 500 hours at MCH last year, playing an important role across 18 different roles to support daily life for residents. Each was invited to a catered lunch with prizes and activities to thank and celebrate their contributions.

“You bring warmth. You bring connection. You bring humanity, and those things are just as essential as any medical service we provide,” Kristen Rund, associate executive director, told volunteers attending the Volunteer Recognition Luncheon. “You are not just volunteers — you are part of our mission. You are part of the reason we are able to provide such compassionate, person-centered care.”

Volunteers support resident transportation, provide companionship, and assist with recreational and pastoral care, operations at the Tapestry Gift Shop and thrift shop, gardening, and special events. Volunteers also support one-on-one resident engagement through activities such as reading, music, crafts, and much more.

“We really value every moment that you spend with us,” Laurie MacFarlane, supervisor of volunteers, pastoral care and customer service, said at the luncheon.

MacFarlane said the program continues to grow, with approximately 20 new volunteers in 2025 and community partners such as Alpha Xi Delta of Rochester Institute of Technology, First American Equipment Finance, Garber Automotive, Nazareth University and the University of Rochester.

Those interested in volunteering at Monroe Community Hospital can call Laurie MacFarlane at 585-760-6151 or email Volunteer Services at mchvolunteer@monroehosp.org.

Spotlight on Service

BARBARA Years: 18 Hours: About 4 per week Why volunteer: “I get a lot out of it. You come in to help other people that can't help themselves, that's the way I see it. It's good to come in, see a smiling face, and know they love to see me.”

MIKE Years: 11 Hours: About 10 per week Why volunteer: “I feel like we should be helping each other. It’s just, you know, feeling like I need to help other people. This is a way of giving back. It gives me joy and comfort helping in a volunteer capacity, and I can also advocate for residents.”

DEBBIE Years: About 1 Hours: About 7 per week Why volunteer: “I just love it. The residents are all different and they are all so nice to see. They love to see you. It is wonderful.”

JULIE

Years: 7

Hours: About 6 per week

Why volunteer: “They were wonderful to my family. I was here every day. After my granddaughter was discharged, I kept coming back. I feel really good when I give, and I just love it here.”

JANET

Years: 7

Hours: About 6 per week

Why volunteer: “The residents are the best part, and they are happy that we talk to them. A lot of times, we get to know them and what they like. That, to me, is very heartwarming.”

SREYOSHI

Years: About 1

Hours: About 4 per week

Why volunteer: “I feel more productive, like contributing to something bigger. I enjoy interacting with a lot of the patients coming in. I like helping them figure out things. It gives me peace when I’m working on that.”