The Gift of Time
Janet Easter finds confidence, camaraderie volunteering for St. John’s Hospital

When did you become a volunteer, and why?
“I began volunteering at St. John’s in September of 2006, about a year after my husband and I moved back to the Ozarks from Virginia. I hadn’t worked outside the home since my son was born 21 years ago, and I needed some confidence and something to do with my time. Because I often accompany my husband on trips for his job with Bass Pro Shops, I wanted the flexibility that volunteering offers. Volunteering for St. John’s has been such a positive experience for me that I wish I’d started sooner.”

Where do you volunteer?
“I spend two days a week in the hospital gift shop. I run the cash register and focus on customer service.”

What do you enjoy most about volunteering?
“I enjoy talking to the other volunteers and the customers. I also enjoy the atmosphere … I often shop while I’m there! I keep my eye out for pretty pieces of pottery, green glasswear and jewelry. I like waiting on customers and helping them pick out gifts for their loved one in the hospital. A little boy came in with $3 one time and wanted to get a gift for his grandfather, who was a patient. We found him a card and a little token that said ‘I love you, Grandpa.’ He was so pleased and it made us feel good to help him.”

St. John's Auxiliary has a long history of providing crucial support throughout the hospital with care and dedication. St. John's volunteers staff information desks, gift shops, deliver flowers, transport patients and provide clerical support in addition many other services at St. John's Hospital in Springfield and hospitals in Lebanon, Aurora, Cassville, Mountain View and Berryville, Ark. The minimum age requirement is 14. If you are interested in volunteering, please call Jerri Flikkema at 417-820-2459.