Northwestern Medicine Marianjoy Rehabilitation Hospital recognized the contributions of its volunteers during National Volunteer Week, which took place in the third week of April. The hospital announced on April 16 that its volunteer program has played a significant role in supporting patients and staff, with 83 individuals contributing over 4,100 hours across multiple departments in 2025.
National Volunteer Week marks five decades of acknowledging those who dedicate their time to community service. At Marianjoy, volunteers serve in roles such as animal therapy, patient transport, greeters, and eucharistic ministers. Lora Cummings, volunteer coordinator at Marianjoy, said, “Many of our volunteers have received inpatient and/or outpatient treatment at Marianjoy, while others simply want to make an impact on the well-being of patients and families. What they all share is a commitment to creating a welcoming and comfortable environment for the patients and families we serve.”
One long-serving volunteer is Elsie Dieden from Villa Park. She began volunteering at Marianjoy after retiring from her teaching career and has since contributed nearly 25 years of service. Dieden helped launch the “Music on Call” program to bring music to patients’ bedsides. “I’ve seen firsthand the healing power of music and its ability to help people relax and open up,” said Dieden. “When I’m visiting a patient, we talk about everything from music and health to family and sports. I’m humbled to play even a small role in someone’s healing journey and to support Marianjoy’s approach to caring for the whole patient.”
Jackie Peterson has also volunteered at Marianjoy for more than 25 years alongside her job coach Kathy Konzcak. Peterson began volunteering as part of efforts by her parents for her active community engagement following her experience living with a disability. Each week she assembles educational materials for patients with Konzcak’s assistance. Konzcak said, “Jackie considers the staff and volunteers ‘family’… it’s not uncommon for us to pass nurses in the hallways who stop to say hello.”
Cummings stated that Marianjoy aims to expand its volunteer base by welcoming up to twelve new participants in 2026 so that both volunteers feel fulfilled by their service while helping staff focus on care delivery.
Northwestern Medicine recognizes community contributions through humanitarian awards reflecting values such as compassion according to the official website. The organization also receives national recognition for programs supporting physician well-being along with humanitarian awards honoring community service according to its official website. Northwestern Medicine operates under parent organization Northwestern Memorial HealthCare according to official information.
The health system states it aims for world-class care through a mission focused on patient care, education, and research according to its official website. Howard B. Chrisman serves as president and chief executive officer according to official sources, while Northwestern Medicine participates in strategic collaborations advancing clinical research and education as reported by its website.
