Across Newfoundland and Labrador, a quiet yet powerful force is making a lasting impact in our health-care system—our volunteers. They dedicate their time not for recognition, but out of love for their communities, a desire to connect, and an unwavering commitment to give back. Whether they are guiding someone through the halls of a busy hospital, playing music for long-term care residents, or simply sharing a warm smile, volunteers help to create a health-care experience grounded in compassion and humanity.

At James Paton Memorial Regional Health Centre (JPMHC) in Gander, Jackie Dalley is one of those people. After retiring from a 40-year career as a registered nurse, Jackie felt a calling to return—not as a health-care provider this time, but as a volunteer. She began working in the summer of 1974 as a student before starting at the Western Memorial Hospital School of Nursing. She finished that program in 1976 and landed a full-time job back at JPMH. “This was my home,” she recalls. “If two hours every Wednesday at JPMH is the least I can do, it’s worth it.”

With deep knowledge of the facility and a heart for helping others, Jackie welcomes visitors at the information desk, trains new volunteers, and brings joy to patients during special events. For Jackie, it’s all about making people feel seen and supported. “It can be intimidating coming to a hospital,” she says. “A friendly face makes all the difference.”

In Happy Valley-Goose Bay, the sound of music fills the long-term care facility every Monday evening, thanks to volunteers Eric Power and William Burgess—both local high school teachers.

Their guitars bring more than just melodies, they bring moments of joy, movement and memory. “Seeing the smiles on the residents’ faces, watching them dance or clap—those moments make our evenings,” they share. Having witnessed firsthand the therapeutic power of music, they now use their talents to give back. “Volunteer work strengthens communities, and we encourage youth to get involved, too—it builds skills, perspective and purpose,” say Eric and William.

Meanwhile, at Glenbrook Lodge in St. John’s, Manpreet Dhillon’s volunteer journey is one of deep connection. Working alongside the Therapeutic Recreation Department, she spends her time engaging with elderly residents, sharing stories, laughter, and moments of quiet companionship.

“Volunteering means more to me than giving my time—it’s about ensuring that every person I meet feels seen, heard and valued,” she explains. For Manpreet, this experience is not only personally rewarding but foundational to her aspirations in health care. “Volunteers fill emotional gaps that medicine alone can’t always reach. We bring open hearts and warmth—sometimes that’s what people need most.”

The Bonne Bay Health Centre Hospital Auxiliary, in Western Newfoundland, is a shining example of dedication and community spirit. With approximately 25 members, this hardworking volunteer team not only runs the on-site gift shop but also meets monthly to plan initiatives that directly benefit patients and residents. Their fundraising efforts have led to significant contributions, including new TVs for every room, fresh blinds, curtains, and towels, a fully furnished family room, and chairs for the palliative care space.

Their support extends to enriching the long-term care environment with music by providing a guitar, microphones and a sound system. Their care is also visible in the beautiful flowers they maintain outside the facility each summer and the thoughtful holiday gifts they provide every resident and patient at Christmas. Their generosity and tireless work continue to enhance the health centre, making a meaningful impact on all who walk through its doors.

The impact of our volunteers

These are just a few of the hundreds of volunteers who support care across NL Health Services. From urban hospitals to rural long-term care homes, they form a bridge between clinical care and community spirit—bringing comfort, conversation and connection to those who need it most.

“Volunteers are the heartbeat of our health-care system,” says NL Health Services CEO, Dr. Pat Parfrey. “Their time, energy, and kindness have a lasting ripple. They remind us that small moments make the biggest difference. We are deeply grateful for their commitment and the light they bring to our clients, patients and residents.”

This National Volunteer Week, we recognize everyone who gives their time to make someone’s day a little brighter. Your presence is felt. Your contributions matter. And we thank you for all that you do.

Learn more about volunteer resources, including volunteer opportunities, on our website at: nlhealthservices.ca/careers/volunteer-opportunities/.

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