It goes without saying that most Americans lead terribly busy lives. People are so engaged, in fact, that on average a person has just four hours and 26 minutes of free time available to them each week. Despite this, nearly 25 percent of the U.S. population – 60-plus million people – find the necessary time to volunteer for a good cause.

The benefits of volunteering at Freeman Health System, however, go far beyond altruism; it harnesses the power to directly change lives.

“Helping others is something I always love, especially those in need; I think helping with even the smallest tasks can make a real difference in people’s lives,” said Eliana Lewis, current Freeman Auxiliary President who regularly volunteers at Freeman West Hospital.  “When I volunteer, I know I'll meet at least one person who will either touch my heart, make me smile or gives me something to reflect upon. It's rewarding when I can answer a question, solve a problem or just make a person feel less lonely.”

Volunteering can directly help people in need and the community as a whole. The benefits, however, are reciprocal. Volunteers can find new friends, connect with the community, learn new skills, or help advance personal careers.

“Whatever the age or life situation,” Lewis said, “volunteering can help take one’s mind off their own worries and add more zest to their life.”

Freeman Health System volunteer Earline Kelley, after working professionally in the medical field in California and Kansas City, returned to Joplin in 2005. She immediately began volunteering at Freeman West Hospital.

“Wow – where have the years gone?” she said with a chuckle. “I volunteer at Surgery Check In Desk and the ICU and I have always hoped that I have helped someone if they have a family member or friend that is a patient.”

For many men and women, the volunteer spark is kindled during a traumatic moment in life, when they briefly come into a contact with a volunteer who says something, or does something, that touches them deeply. In other words, volunteering gives men and women the opportunity to “pay it forward.”

Susan Carlsten, an 11-year volunteer at Freeman Neosho Hospital, decided to volunteer after what took place during one of Joplin’s darkest days – May 22, 2011. She, her husband and mother were caught in the path of the EF-5 tornado. When her mother suffered serious head trauma, she was transported and treated by Freeman physicians in neighboring Neosho.

“The care and concern shown to my mother at Freeman Neosho defies description,” Carlsten said. “The staff literally saved my mother's life.  As a way of saying ‘thank you Freeman Neosho,’ I am now a volunteer there.”

Over the years, the former Freeman Auxiliary President has volunteered all over the complex, from the hospital’s admitting area to its gift shop.

“The friendships I have made at Freeman Neosho are amazing.  It is like another family,” she said. “Eating lunch together in the cafeteria is always fun and entertaining.  You also get to know some of the patients.  It is wonderful to see them outside the hospital and be able to speak with them.”