COVID had put a huge hold on volunteers coming back into the hospital. But they were very eager and ready to come back once the restrictions were lifted and vaccinations were available.

“Some of our seasoned volunteers were reaching out each week wondering when they would be able to join the team once again,” said Megan Barone, volunteer coordinator. “They missed the social interactions, the employees that became friends and the patients they cheered up with offering them a coffee or a simple gesture of encouragement.”

One of UPMC Chautauqua’s “red coats,” Tony, who has been volunteering at the hospital guiding, greeting, and assisting patients when they come in through the front doors for over 12 years was very excited to come back to some normalcy in his life. He missed everything about being at UPMC Chautauqua.

Bill is another volunteer who is cherished at UPMC Chautauqua. Patients who walk in the door know him by name and are excited that he is there to greet them. The UPMC Chautauqua volunteers provide history and a patient experience that the hospital strives for.

UPMC Chautauqua recently welcomed back its “Red Coats,” a group of volunteers who assist those who visit the hospital in addition to offering coffee and snacks. Submitted photos

The volunteers have provided a dynamic environment throughout the hospital from greeting patients to offering coffee and snacks. Recently, the Chautauqua Regional Community Foundation wanted to find a way to help employees throughout the hospital. They offered to provide snacks to employees to make sure they felt appreciated by the community they serve.

“We truly appreciate all of UPMC Chautauqua’s hard work and dedication to our community,” said Tory Irgang, CRCF executive director. “We wanted to let them know how much we care.”

The volunteer’s rich history of providing a coffee cart was instrumental in being able to provide this service within the hospital. Not only do the volunteers take snacks and coffee around to employees, but they also take them to UPMC Chautauqua patients who are waiting for their loved ones. Pat Kinney has been taking a coffee cart around the hospital for many years and loves the idea of CRCF providing additional snacks for the employees.

“The employees really love when the cart comes around, they can’t wait to come up and grab their favorite. Brian Durniok, president of UPMC Chautauqua, also wheels the cart around and the employees love to see the enthusiasm and support he offers,” Kinney said.

Those interested in supporting UPMC Chautauqua’s staff at any capacity is asked to contact Barone, director of development/volunteer coordinator at baronema3@upmc.edu.

UPMC Chautauqua recently welcomed back its “Red Coats,” a group of volunteers who assist those who visit the hospital in addition to offering coffee and snacks. Submitted photos