Volunteers Do Their Part To Help Tulsa Hospital Run Smoothly

It’s national volunteer week, and one place where volunteers really make a difference is at a hospital.

Often, retired couples find the hospital auxiliary is the perfect place to give back together - a simple thing, but so important to making that visit to unfamiliar territory an easier experience.

Kerry and Yvonne Sorrells have volunteered at St. John for 11 years and they love it.

"It has been like getting a new family," Kerry said.

Meeting and becoming friends with people you'd never have met if it weren't for volunteering.

Kerry works the front desk; said he likes helping folks who've just come in the door.

Yvonne's territory is the surgery waiting room; she likes being the friendly face for those waiting.

They are among a small army of volunteers in St. John's five hospitals.

"In 2017, we had 619 volunteers who gave over 70,000 service hours," said Director of Volunteers, Becky Brungardt.

The Sorrells are one of eight couples who volunteer together, except Mondays.

"I think he enjoys Mondays off, when I'm not home, so he can do what he wants to," Yvonne said.

Like climbing up and cleaning off the roof.

"I tell her to come home on Mondays and check the bushes first, in case I've fallen off," Kerry said.

Hadn't happened yet.