Hermiston Volunteers Honored During National Volunteer Month

Good Shepherd Health Care System celebrates the contributions of over 90 active volunteers who provide 722 service hours monthly.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 11:18pm

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An abstract, out-of-focus photograph in soft, warm tones depicting the silhouettes of several people in a healthcare setting, conveying a sense of care and community through their gestures and interactions.Volunteers at Good Shepherd Health Care System contribute their time and compassion to support patient care and community well-being.Hermiston Today

April is National Volunteer Month, an annual celebration established by President George H.W. Bush in 1991 to recognize the contributions of volunteers across the country. In Hermiston, Oregon, over 90 active volunteers at Good Shepherd Health Care System (GSHCS) provide an average of 722 service hours each month, supporting patient care, community health, and the overall mission of the organization.

Why it matters

Volunteerism plays a crucial role in supporting healthcare systems and strengthening local communities. GSHCS volunteers help create a welcoming and supportive care environment, contribute to patient progress, and advance the organization's mission to provide compassionate and exceptional care. National Volunteer Month shines a spotlight on these invaluable contributions and encourages more people to get involved in their communities.

The details

GSHCS volunteers serve in a variety of capacities, including customer service, information desks, the GSHCS Auxiliary, hospice care, therapy services, the treatment center, outpatient clinics, the emergency department, nutritional services, environmental services, and the children's center. These diverse volunteer roles allow individuals to make a direct impact on patient care and support the overall health and well-being of the Hermiston community.

  • National Volunteer Month is celebrated every April.
  • In 1991, President George H.W. Bush established National Volunteer Month by Presidential Proclamation.

The players

Good Shepherd Health Care System (GSHCS)

A healthcare organization in Hermiston, Oregon that provides compassionate and exceptional care to the local community.

Miranda Vega-Rector

The Volunteer Coordinator at Good Shepherd Health Care System.

George H.W. Bush

The former President of the United States who established National Volunteer Month in 1991 as part of his 'Thousand Points of Light' volunteering initiative.

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What they’re saying

“From assisting with wayfinding to offering reassurance and compassionate support during admissions, volunteers help create a welcoming and supportive care environment.”

— Miranda Vega-Rector, Volunteer Coordinator, Good Shepherd Health Care System

“These diverse opportunities allow volunteers to make a direct impact on patient care while supporting the overall health and well-being of the community.”

— Miranda Vega-Rector, Volunteer Coordinator, Good Shepherd Health Care System

What’s next

Throughout April, people are encouraged to use the hashtags #NationalVolunteerMonth and #VolunteerMonth2026 on social media to highlight the work of volunteers and explore new volunteer opportunities in their local communities.

The takeaway

National Volunteer Month serves as a powerful reminder of the vital role volunteers play in supporting healthcare systems and strengthening local communities. The dedicated volunteers at Good Shepherd Health Care System in Hermiston, Oregon exemplify the positive impact that can be made through selfless service and a commitment to the greater good.