Osseo retiree volunteers to bring a smile to patients

My name is Gloria Berg, and I live near Osseo, Wisconsin. I enjoy baking, bird watching and spending time with family in my free time. I also volunteer at the information desk at Mayo Clinic Health System – Oakridge in Osseo.

Before retiring, I worked at Whitehall Memorial High School in Whitehall, Wisconsin. I worked in the main office doing a variety of work, including helping students plan their class schedules.

After retiring, I decided to look for something to do in my free time. Since I have always enjoyed helping others and meeting new people, I knew volunteering in Osseo would be a great fit for me.

For the past three years, I have volunteered at the lobby information desk. I greet patients and visitors, answer questions, give directions, and provide wheelchairs and pushing assistance to patients.

I enjoy volunteering because it gets me out of the house and gives me something to look forward to each week. Volunteering helps me stay social in retirement, and allows me to help people in need of assistance.

One thing I look forward to each week is visiting with my community members. I want to let patients know that I am there for them if they ever need help. I like providing company to others, especially to those who may not receive much person-to-person interaction throughout the week.

If you are interested in volunteering, I encourage you to give it a try. For me, volunteering is satisfying. It allows me to interact with others and cheer people up. Volunteering gives me the opportunity to be nice to others.

VOLUNTEER

Like Gloria, you, too, can volunteer at Mayo Clinic Health System. You must be at least 14 to volunteer. All ability levels are welcome.