Generations of Service: How Volunteers of All Ages Strengthen Huntington Health

This week, Huntington Health, an affiliate of Cedars-Sinai, proudly celebrates the more than 1,000 volunteers who generously dedicate their time, talent, and compassion to our hospital each year.

Together, these volunteers donate more than 100,000 hours annually, serving as the welcoming face of our community at moments when patients and families are often vulnerable, anxious, or afraid. You'll find friendly volunteer faces throughout the hospital, supporting countless departments and programs and helping create an environment that feels caring, calm, and human.

Volunteer Week also celebrates the people behind the service. Pasadena-resident Shirley Botsford, Huntington's oldest volunteer at 95 years young, has volunteered at Huntington for more than 43 years, contributing over 11,700 hours. 'I enjoy doing things that I'm capable of, helping other people," Shirley says. "And when someone says, 'We appreciate it,' that makes you feel good-because you know you've helped make something easier for them at a difficult time."

At the other end of the age spectrum is high school volunteer, 17-year-old Oliver Malone, who hopes to pursue a healthcare career. "I love the feeling of helping people," Oliver shares. "It makes me feel like I've done something meaningful-like I've made someone feel better-and that's what keeps me coming back."

"From first-time volunteers to lifelong ones, we are deeply grateful," said Amaralys Gastelum, director of volunteer services, Huntington Health. "Our volunteers don't just support Huntington, they are an instrumental part of our operations on a day-to-day basis."

Volunteers play vital roles across Huntington's campus. At nursing stations, they provide essential non-clinical support, answering phones, assisting with discharges, transporting patients, and helping nurses focus on care. Our high school volunteers, such as Oliver, representing more than 40 schools-bring energy and curiosity, and many credit their volunteer experiences with inspiring future careers in healthcare.

Huntington's music volunteers offer a different kind of healing, sharing piano, guitar, harp, violin, and ukulele music that lifts spirits and soothes patients and staff alike. In the S. Robert and Denise Zeilstra Gift Sho p, volunteers create a welcoming respite for visitors and staff, while proceeds support the hospital and student scholarships. Off campus, volunteers at the Huntington Collection help fund the Senior Care Network. Other opportunities include clerical support, information desks, lobby escorts, and the ever-popular Pet Assisted Therapy teams-some of our most beloved volunteers happen to have four legs.

Shirley continues: "I don't do it for the praise or the hours. But when someone says, 'Thank you,' you know you've helped-and that makes you feel good. That's why I enjoy volunteering."

To learn more about Huntington's volunteer program, click here.