35 years of volunteering at Oak Valley Health
As National Volunteer Week (April 27-May 3) unfolds, we celebrate the incredible contributions volunteers make to our communities. At Oak Valley Health, a volunteer’s remarkable 35-year journey has touched countless lives — from staff and patients to visitors.
Luci Hubbard is one of Oak Valley Health’s longest-serving volunteers. For over three decades, she has been a constant presence — greeting visitors, assisting with registration, and guiding patients to their destinations.
From the moment Markham Stouffville Hospital opened its doors on March 5, 1990, Luci has been part of the team. As the hospital and the community continued to grow, so did Luci’s passion for volunteering.
Luci explains that while the role may seem simple on the surface, it’s one that is deeply fulfilling.
“Volunteering has always been my way of giving back to the community. I remember when I first started, I was inspired by the staff and the volunteers who were so dedicated to supporting others. Now, after 35 years, it’s the appreciation I receive from staff and visitors that keeps me going. When people thank me for helping them find their way or make their visit a bit more comfortable, it’s an incredible feeling of accomplishment,” says Luci.
In addition to volunteering at the information desk, Luci has also assisted in several other hospital initiatives over the years. However, one of the most unforgettable moments of her volunteer experience occurred a few years ago.
“There was a patient in the lobby who appeared to be in significant discomfort. She was in labour, but she insisted on waiting for her husband, who had dropped her off to park the car. After offering her assistance, she finally agreed to use a wheelchair, and together we headed to childbirth and children’s services. Upon returning to the information desk, I was met by a frantic husband, anxiously searching for his very pregnant wife. I reassured him, and the look of relief on his face when we reunited them was priceless,” she says. “A few weeks later, the new mother returned with her twins in tow, a heartfelt gesture to thank me for my help.”
It was moments like this that reinforced just how much of a difference one small act of kindness can make — a reminder that volunteering can shape lives, sometimes in the most unexpected ways.
“Although the hospital has more than doubled in size since opening, the warm, friendly atmosphere has stayed the same. There has been growth and changes throughout the years but I see many familiar faces in staff and volunteers. Oak Valley Health feels like family,” she shares.
The sense of fulfillment, the appreciation from staff and visitors, and the chance to make a real difference in people’s lives are a few of many reasons why Luci has dedicated herself to this work for so long. Growing up, Luci’s parents were both passionate about volunteering, and it was always understood that Luci and her sister would follow in their footsteps.
“When I leave the hospital after my volunteer shift, I feel a sense of accomplishment having helped and reassured patients and visitors who sometimes just need to see a friendly smiling face.”
As National Volunteer Week continues, we are reminded of the thousands of volunteer hours that fuel the organization’s mission of delivering an extraordinary patient experience though our honoured to care culture. With over 1,000 active volunteers across Markham Stouffville Hospital, Uxbridge Hospital, and the Reactivation Care Centre, we are proud to foster connections, celebrate our people, and contribute to a thriving community.
To learn more about volunteering at Oak Valley health, visit the volunteer webpage.
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