Northwestern Medicine Marianjoy Rehabilitation Hospital recognized the efforts of its volunteers during National Volunteer Week, which took place in the third week of April. The hospital announced on April 16 that in 2025, a group of 83 volunteers contributed more than 4,100 hours across 11 departments and served in roles such as animal therapy, greeters, patient transport, and eucharistic ministers.
Volunteering is seen as important for both recipients and those who give their time. It not only supports patients but also provides mental and physical benefits to volunteers by fostering purpose and social connections. Northwestern Medicine recognizes community contributions through humanitarian awards that reflect values of compassion and impact, according to the official website.
Lora Cummings, volunteer coordinator at Marianjoy, said: “Many of our volunteers have received inpatient and/or outpatient treatment at Marianjoy, while others simply want to make an impact on the well-being of patients and families. What they all share is a commitment to creating a welcoming and comfortable environment for the patients and families we serve.”
The hospital shared stories about long-term volunteers such as Elsie Dieden from Villa Park. Dieden began volunteering in 2000 after working with special education students who assisted at Marianjoy. She has since supported hundreds of patients through programs like "Music on Call." Dieden said: “I’ve seen firsthand the healing power of music and its ability to help people relax and open up. When I’m visiting a patient, we talk about everything from music and health to family and sports. I’m humbled to play even a small role in someone’s healing journey and to support Marianjoy’s approach to caring for the whole patient.”
Another volunteer highlighted was Jackie Peterson, who has volunteered for over 25 years alongside her job coach Kathy Konzcak. Konzcak said: “Jackie considers the staff and volunteers ‘family’. Café staff and team members in housekeeping and registration know Jackie by name, and it’s not uncommon for us to pass nurses in the hallways who stop to say hello.”
Northwestern Medicine receives national recognition for programs supporting physician well-being as well as humanitarian awards honoring community service according to its official website. The organization functions under parent company Northwestern Memorial HealthCare according to its official website.
Looking ahead, Cummings said: “We’re continually enhancing the volunteer experience so that people feel fulfilled by their service, patients receive meaningful support and staff can focus on providing top quality care… Our goal is to welcome as many as a dozen new volunteers in 2026.” Volunteers must be at least sixteen years old with certain roles requiring higher minimum ages based on responsibilities.
Northwestern Medicine aims to provide world-class care through a mission focused on patient care, education, research according to its official website. Howard B. Chrisman holds the role of president and chief executive officer for Northwestern Medicine according to its official website. The organization also engages in strategic collaborations designed to advance clinical research or education.
