In 2024, volunteers at Iredell Memorial Hospital provided more than 6,200 hours of service. These efforts are considered essential to the hospital’s mission.
“Volunteering at Iredell Memorial Hospital gives me a chance to connect with other people and be there for them in a meaningful way,” said Ron Terry, Volunteer President.
Terry volunteers in the emergency department. His tasks include transporting patients to imaging scans, emptying laundry carts, and spending time with anxious patients. He aims to help staff by handling minor duties so they can focus on patient care.
“My goal in the emergency department is to do anything that can relieve staff of minor duties so that their time can be spent with their patients.”
Terry also highlighted the importance of volunteering at a community hospital like Iredell Memorial.
“Our time means more than money. Money helps, but our time is the most valuable.”
Jed Pidcock, Director of Patient Experience and Volunteer Coordinator, emphasized the role volunteers play for patients and families.
“Volunteers play a vital role for patients and their families bringing comfort during moments of uncertainty. The time and talents they share truly make an impact on our friends and neighbors,” he said.
Pidcock plans to expand volunteer programs in the coming months. He mentioned potential initiatives such as music therapy, expanded pet therapy, and volunteer-operated golf carts to assist patients with mobility issues from parking areas into the hospital. However, he noted that more volunteers are needed for these ideas to move forward.
“We want to grow, expand and create new programs for patients. Music therapy and expanded pet therapy would be great. Volunteer golf carts to pick up patients with mobility issues and bring them where they need to go from the parking lot would make a big impact. We have great ideas, but we need more volunteers to make them a reality.”
The hospital offers several volunteer opportunities both directly involving patient interaction and behind-the-scenes roles. Benefits include appreciation events, complimentary meals during shifts, free flu shots in the fall, wellness bloodwork after one year of service at a reduced cost, and flexible scheduling options.
For those interested in volunteering or seeking additional information about available opportunities at Iredell Memorial Hospital, details are available at iredellhealth.org/volunteers or by calling 704-878-4524.
