Stamford Health is thankful for the many volunteers that make a difference at the hospital every day. Our staff ensures that our volunteers are well-matched and well-recognized for their individual strengths and talents, with a fit for everyone — from teenagers to adults! Today, we're spotlighting Estefania Figueroa, who volunteers in Stamford Hospital. We hope her story may inspire you to volunteer; you can learn more about our volunteer opportunities here.

How long have you been volunteering at Stamford Health?

I started volunteering at Stamford Hospital when I was a freshman in high school. Due to COVID-19, volunteering was put on pause for a while. I started volunteering again this summer every weekday. I am proud to say I have completed 160 hours this summer, but now I have to go back to school and I am sad to leave. It's going to be strange not volunteering every day, but I hope to return during my winter break!

What do you typically do on your shifts?

I volunteer at two different departments: the front desk and the Emergency Department (ED). I start my day at the front desk Monday-Friday at 6:30 a.m. On Mondays and Tuesdays, after my shift at the front desk, I switch to the ED; both have different tasks.

At the front desk, we check people in, making sure they know how to get to the right place whether it be for an appointment or to visit a patient. I also assist with wheelchair transportation for whoever needs assistance. This is one of my favorite parts of my duties because I get to meet so many new people. I also deliver the newspapers to the hospital's different departments first thing in the morning. I also deliver flowers. As I'm walking back from these places, I always try to help anyone who looks lost around the hospital and direct them to their correct destination. At the ED, I refill nurse's carts and take samples to the laboratory.

Why did you become a volunteer?

I became a volunteer because I want to pursue a career in the medical field. I am a pre-med student at Syracuse University so exposing myself to different parts of the hospital is extremely beneficial for my future career. I also have a passion for helping others so being able to do that every day makes my day. Not only do the patients put a smile on my face, but the staff at the front desk do, too. Every day I enjoy getting to catch up with them, whether it be talking about school or what I did the day before. I'm truly going to miss talking to them every day as they became my great friends and I'll never forget them.

Do you have any advice for others looking to get involved?

My advice is to do it even if it is just a few hours a week. Everyone is so welcoming and are so appreciative that you are sacrificing your time to volunteer. Volunteers make a huge difference in the hospital and are a big part of the team! I love volunteering so I recommend it greatly to anyone thinking about it