Summa volunteers enjoy serving patients while making new friends.

On any given day at Summa Health System’s hospitals, no less than 50 volunteers are busy greeting visitors, delivering lab samples, filing paperwork, making beds or running errands for the clinical staff.

They are easily recognizable in their crisp blue or coral jackets, many with pins sparkling with tiny gems recognizing their years of service. Some have been at it so long they will tell you their fellow volunteers are like family to them.

Volunteering is an integral part of the overall tapestry of Summa Health System. Volunteers range in age from 14 years old to the sky’s the limit and many volunteers rack up years of service because the experience is as positive for volunteers as it is for patients. Volunteering offers participants a way to achieve a sense of self-worth, gain experience and socialize with others, all the while providing a valued service to the hospitals and to the community.

Summa's hospitals offer a high school student volunteer program, a college student program  and an adult program. While the summer youth programs generate excellent responses each year, all the hospitals are working to boost volunteer participation in the 30- to 60-year age range, which can help provide balance to the programs. The three women's boards also offer unique volunteering experiences.

For more information give us a call at 330-375-3247 for Akron City Hospital or 330-379-5595 for St. Thomas Hospital, or drop us a line and let us know you’re interested. You'll find Summa's volunteer experience a rich and rewarding way to spend your free time while forging valuable new friendships. Join us!