Concord Hospital Health System Celebrates Volunteers for Their Service and Impact

Concord Hospital Health System (CHHS) recently honored its dedicated volunteers during its annual volunteer recognition event, held June 23 at The Barn at Bull Meadow. The celebration brought together approximately 125 volunteers from across CHHS Concord, Franklin, and Laconia campuses to recognize their contributions and celebrate another year of service to patients, families, visitors, and staff.

During the event, volunteers received service pins commemorating their cumulative volunteer hours and were recognized for the countless ways they help advance the health system's mission of providing compassionate, high-quality care.

"Volunteers are an essential part of the patient experience throughout our health system," said Jessica Bailey, "volunteer services program manager for CHHS. Whether they are greeting visitors, supporting patients and families, assisting staff, or sharing their talents through special programs, their generosity and dedication make a meaningful difference every day."

Concord Hospital Health System’s Patient and Family Services staff member Erin Fortier, Volunteer Services Program Manager Jessica Bailey, and Director of Patient Experience and Service Excellence Carissa Elphick pose behind the check-in table at the annual volunteer recognition event.

In fiscal year 2025, CHHS volunteers contributed 34,322 hours of service across a wide range of programs and initiatives. Some of their impact included 5,408 bedside visits, 6,850 patient book cart visits, 7,085 Pets Uplift People visits, 1,500 hours of spiritual care, and 160 hours of veteran visits, among other areas. Volunteers also devoted 19,018 hours to craft committee and community crafter activities, creating items that provide comfort and support to patients and families throughout the health system.

Additional volunteer contributions included supporting gift shop operations, maintaining workroom and administrative functions, and serving as pathfinders to help visitors navigate hospital campuses.

"Many people think of volunteers as simply giving their time, but what they truly give is comfort, connection, and compassion," Bailey said. "A friendly greeting, a visit with a certified therapy dog, a handmade blanket, or helping someone find their way can have a profound impact during what may be a difficult day."

The annual recognition event serves as an opportunity to thank volunteers for their service and celebrate the extraordinary collective impact they make across the organization.

"Our volunteers embody the spirit of community service," Bailey said. "We are incredibly grateful for everything they do and proud to celebrate their contributions. The care and kindness they bring to our patients, visitors, and staff are invaluable."

Individuals interested in becoming a CHHS volunteer can learn more by visiting concordhospital.org.