What’s Happening?
National Volunteer Week, is recognising people who support local communities.
Among them is Sandra Hill of Cleveland, a Carinity volunteer chaplain at Redland Hospital.
Sandra provides pastoral care to patients and families across the hospital.
“I am part of the chaplaincy team providing pastoral care over the entire hospital, from the birthing ward to end of life,” Sandra explains.
“My role entails visiting patients and extending pastoral care to them and their families. I offer prayer when appropriate and am involved in memorial services and interaction with hospital staff.
“I help patients and sometimes their families navigate fear, grief and uncertainty as I offer a calming presence – especially when patients receive a terminal diagnosis or unexpected complications and trauma.”
Why It Matters
Hospital care is not only medical.
For many patients and families, emotional and spiritual support can matter during frightening moments.
Sandra said being a Carinity volunteer hospital chaplain is “profoundly gratifying”.
“I enjoy meeting people and the privilege of hearing stories and walking alongside those who are sometimes going through deep valleys in their lives – offering a compassionate and human connection to people during their most vulnerable and isolating moments,” Sandra said.
By the Numbers
- May 18 to 24 marks National Volunteer Week, a national moment to thank volunteers across local communities.
- 1 Cleveland resident, Sandra Hill, is using her spare time to support people during vulnerable hospital experiences.
- Multiple forms of support are part of her role, including prayer, memorial services and pastoral care conversations.
Local Impact
Sandra’s work supports patients, families and hospital staff in Cleveland and the wider Redlands area.
Her role can include prayer, memorial services and quiet support during grief, trauma or uncertainty.
She also helps bring comfort during some of the hardest moments patients may face.
Zoom In
Sandra said hospital pastoral care can bring people together when circumstances are painful.
“Often pastoral care in a hospital environment brings people together in the best way possible under the worst conditions.
“Being with patients in their last moments and being able to offer prayers or blessings is a sacred and humbling privilege.”
Zoom Out
National Volunteer Week highlights the many ways volunteers strengthen communities.
Sandra said people with spare time should consider giving back locally.
“Volunteering is most rewarding, satisfying and fulfilling. One receives back much more than one gives. It also gives one purpose and meaning in life.”
What To Look For Next?
Carinity is encouraging people interested in volunteer hospital chaplaincy to learn more through its volunteer page.
More Redlands residents may consider volunteering as National Volunteer Week continues from May 18 to 24.
