Biggest hearts, brightest impact: Englewood Hospital salutes its volunteer heroes
HCA Florida Englewood Hospital recently honored its dedicated team of more than 100 volunteers during a sunflower-themed luncheon celebrating National Volunteer Month. Together, these volunteers contribute more than 15,000 hours of service each year, playing a vital role in patient care and creating a welcoming environment for all who walk through the hospital doors.
Barb Artigliere was recognized for 20 years of volunteer service. After retiring, Artigliere returned to the hospital to give back as a greeter. “I volunteer to give back to the community,” Artigliere said. “This seems worthwhile, and it completes you in a lot of respects.”
The hospital also presented its Biggest Heart Award to three exceptional volunteers: Dr. Karen Weinstein, Rann Hopp and Grace Drescher.
Dr. Karen Weinstein, a former physician, has volunteered as a greeter for nearly four years and serves as the official volunteer trainer for greeters. Her warmth, professionalism and mentorship have made a lasting impact. “Physical activity, socialization and a feeling like we are a big family is very gratifying,” Weinstein said. “We all come from different backgrounds, but the commonality is helping patients. Having a family member or patient hug you is the most amazing thing in the world. We get as much out of volunteering as the people we volunteer for.”
Rann Hopp, a former hospital staff member, returned as a volunteer nearly three years ago. She supports the medical units, trains new volunteers and is known for stepping in wherever needed — earning admiration from nurses and staff alike. “I’m a nurse, and I like taking care of people,” Hopp said. “I love it when a patient gives me something I can do as a volunteer, like bringing some water or something to eat.”
Grace Drescher, a retired registered nurse, has volunteered for more than 17 years in roles ranging from the emergency department to the hospital cafeteria. She was named Volunteer of the Year in 2016 and was a 2018 Frist Humanitarian Award nominee. “I’ve volunteered all my life,” Drescher said. “I have the most fun working in the cafeteria. The team is so kind, and I love feeding people.”
“Our volunteers are the heart of HCA Florida Englewood Hospital,” said CEO Kelly Lindsay. “Their selfless dedication, compassion and willingness to serve others create a ripple effect of kindness throughout our hospital and community. We are incredibly proud to honor individuals who give so much of themselves to make a difference in the lives of our patients and staff every single day.”
To learn more about the volunteer program at HCA Florida Englewood Hospital, visit HCAFloridaHealthcare, follow the hospital on Facebook, call (941) 473-5048 or email.