At JPS Health Network, we believe that healthcare isn’t just about medicine; it’s about transforming lives and communities. Our volunteers play a key role in this mission. They do more than assist, they bring warmth, compassion, and a personal touch that lifts patients, families, and team members. From guiding someone through the halls to offering a kind word or simply listening, volunteers help create a welcoming, healing environment that defines JPS.
One of our amazing volunteers, Regina Pointer, exemplifies this spirit of service. A retired nurse, Regina’s journey at JPS began long before her retirement. She spent years in the very same hallways she now walks as a volunteer, caring for patients with compassion. Today, she’s giving back by contributing her time, expertise, and heart to our community.
“When I volunteer at JPS, I feel like I can really make a difference. It keeps me going, knowing I’m helping patients and staff however I can.”
“I’m a retired nurse, and I got a lot of my training from JPS,” said Pointer. “So, I knew I wanted to come back to give back. That’s why I chose JPS as my volunteer site.”
Her role may have shifted since she retired, but her commitment to helping others never changed. Whether at the front desk or assisting with the Hospital Elder Life Program (HELP), where she helps our older adults with feeding and fall prevention, Regina’s background as a nurse gives her a unique ability to spot and address patient needs with care.
“When I volunteer at JPS, I feel like I can really make a difference,” Pointer said. “It keeps me going, knowing I’m helping patients and staff however I can.”
Regina’s work with our older adults and her presence on the front lines help ensure that patients receive the emotional support they need. She states that the most important thing she offers is her presence, showing kindness and compassion to those who need it most.
“We help in all kinds of ways,” Pointer said. “But one of the most important is just being there, smiling, listening, showing someone we care. That can really help someone who’s feeling scared or alone.”
Behind every volunteer at JPS is a dedicated team that ensures they are fully supported and empowered. Kim Pinter, Director, Volunteer Services, oversees this program and sees firsthand the significant impact that volunteers have on patients, team members, and the community.
“Volunteers bring warmth and kindness to our patients,” said Pinter. “They lower stress just by being there, smiling, and listening. That emotional support really matters.”
The volunteer program at JPS is built on the foundation of thorough training and support. Volunteers go through interviews, background checks, health screenings, and specialized training to ensure they’re fully prepared for their roles.
“We’ve built a volunteer culture that feels like a family,” Pinter said. “We want people to feel at home here from day one.”
Pointer expresses that she feels the warmth of the Volunteer Services department through their recognition, especially with initiatives like providing meals and prioritizing the well-being of volunteers or even being introduced and acknowledged at the recent Board of Managers meeting. However, she emphasizes that the quiet moments she shares with patients are what matter most to her. She believes that sometimes, all it takes is to listen, offer a hug, or help connect patients with what they need.
“I want people to know that when I’m in that room, I’m there just for them,” Pointer said. “If they need someone to cry with, I’m here.”
Pointer and Pinter agree on the benefits of volunteering. They emphasize that volunteering is not only about giving; it is rewarding and transformative, and you gain knowledge and skills in return.
“Volunteering helps people stay connected, feel confident, and learn new skills,” Pinter said. “It’s great for your emotional and mental health. You give a lot, but you also get a lot.”
For Regina, her reward is clear: offering just a smile can bring happiness to a patient's life, and that is what drives her to volunteer each day.
“Every day, I pray to be a blessing for someone, so that when I volunteer, I can make someone smile,” Pointer said.
Whether you’re retired like Regina or a student hoping to learn more about healthcare, JPS has a place for you.
“Just reach out,” said Pinter. “If you want to help others, we’d love to have you.”
We are currently looking for volunteers to join our team. To learn more or sign up, visit the Volunteer Services Page, email volunteers@jpshealth.org, or call 817-702-1590.