After retiring from Newark City Hall just two and a half years ago, Diana Hufford decided retirement would not keep her from being active. “After I retired, I didn’t want to just sit at home,” she said. “I talked with an individual who mentioned that the Hospital is always looking for volunteers. So I went and signed up!” said Diana. She joined the Volunteer Services Department at Licking Memorial Hospital (LMH) right after her retirement and has been volunteering ever since.

Diana works in the Volunteer Office often and is willing to go wherever and do whatever is needed. She enjoys this role because of the variety it provides. “I get to do a little bit of everything,” she said.

Outpatient Surgery and Oncology are among the recent areas in which Diana has volunteered. She was able to direct family members from consult rooms to the patients they were visiting in Outpatient Surgery. She also spent time assisting in Oncology, which left a lasting impression on Diana. “For me, I think it’s wonderful. I’ve never seen such caring personnel in a hospital before. They are just really great people. They are there for a reason – they want to be there.”

Although volunteering in Oncology is one of Diana’s favorite assignments, she also loves simply being helpful in the Volunteer Office. She enjoys assisting in the office where service opportunities always arise for which she can lend a hand. “Somebody may need help and I’m able to provide that,” she said.

Carol Barnes, LMH Director of Volunteers, TWIGS and Events, appreciates Diana’s enthusiasm. “Diana is helpful to all she meets,” said Carol. “She is there to assist, whether it is a guest who needs directions, or getting time-sensitive tasks delivered in a timely manner. We are extremely happy to have Diana on our team. Her smile and willingness to help is part of her daily routine.”

Volunteering is important to Diana because it allows her to give back to the community. “When you put your own time in, you appreciate it more,” she said. “Plus, you get to meet so many new people!” When Diana is not volunteering around the Hospital, she most likely is reading or spending time with her four grandchildren.