Debbie Croft: Foothills communities could always use more dedicated volunteers

We hear it again and again: Volunteers make a difference. But unless you are a volunteer or have worked alongside one, you may not be aware of how large an impact their service makes.

Volunteers extend a company’s resources. They provide an impartial viewpoint and extra hands to accomplish tasks that might not otherwise get done. At times they raise funds to purchase equipment.

Nonprofit organizations rely heavily on volunteers, as do state and national parks, schools and hospitals. Athletic organizations, firefighting, law enforcement and emergency rescue groups also benefit from volunteer labor.

Two organizations in Mariposa County recently had much to say about their volunteers.

Before moving to the foothills, Dee Carr worked at two Central Valley hospitals. Now she volunteers at the hospital, working in every department except for housekeeping and maintenance, Carr said.

She mentioned research proving senior citizens who stay involved with people and continue using their minds, remain healthy longer. Carr is the parliamentarian for the volunteer board. She is also a member of Soroptimist International and on the board of the Golden Agers.

Christina Mitchell is activities director for the skilled nursing department. Mitchell, who doesn’t have an assistant, says it would be nearly impossible to do her job without the help of volunteers.

They also help put on benefit events, such as the Black and White Ball and the Christmas Craft Show, raise funds to purchase medical equipment. They are given a “wish list” of items needed, such as patient lifts, a vital signs machine with thermometer, mattresses, over-bed tables and laboratory supplies.

On average $10,000 a year is donated, but at times it’s closer to $15,000.

About 30 individuals serve as volunteers, but only about half that number are actively involved: Pat Allen, Leona Beesley, Patty Cross, Vivian Hartman, Mary Ann Higbee, Ruth Johnson, Phyllis Linnebur, Mary Paige, Stan Petersen, Vicki Roland, Irene Stowe and Lonna Woods.

Lorna Cocci, of the human resources department, said volunteers are a vital part of the team and enhance the patients’ experience here.

Because the hospital district invests time and money for training, volunteers are expected to devote the same level of commitment to the hospital. Those interested in learning more should contact Linnebur at (209) 966-7728.

“Volunteers are an integral part of Yosemite’s preservation and protection,” Park Superintendent Don Neubacher said.

On National Public Lands Day last month, the park honored several outstanding volunteers.

As the desk officer program supervisor, Larry Keene was awarded the Individual Volunteer Award.

Grant Travers won the Individual Youth Volunteer Award for his work as a groundskeeper.

Serving in the Pioneer History Center for over 22 years, Julie Schuller was awarded the Enduring Service Award.

The Group Volunteer Award went to Breakwater Church of Southern California. For over a decade the church brings about 50 people to the annual Mighty Merced River Clean-up.

Parks in Focus was awarded the Youth Group Volunteer Award, for middle school-age students who arrive at Yosemite ready to serve and explore.

Someone has to keep all those volunteers organized. Ninette Daniele is one who does just that, while also mentoring future park scientists. She won the Supervisor of Volunteers Award.

The Yosemite Volunteer Program Award went to the Camp Host Program. Camp hosts assist at the park’s 13 campgrounds.

Anders Ourom received this year’s Facelift Volunteer Award.

And the NatureBridge Stewardship Instructor of the Year Award went to Lisa Ribaric.

Each year the park hosts more than 10,000 volunteers, who donate more than 176,000 hours annually. They remove invasive plants, clear trash, repair trails, perform clerical duties, educate, assist visitors and hikers, curate artifacts, study wildlife and ch more.

Visit www.nps.gov to get involved.

Or for a list of local nonprofit organizations, visit your county chamber of commerce website, click on the member directory and scroll down to nonprofits.

Chances are, no matter which group you’re interested in helping, it could use a few more volunteers.

This story was originally published October 18, 2014 at 12:00 AM with the headline "Debbie Croft: Foothills communities could always use more dedicated volunteers."