Sarah Bush Lincoln recently recognized Nandini Joag as its volunteer of the year. | Courtesy of Shutterstock
Sarah Bush Lincoln recently recognized Nandini Joag as its volunteer of the year. | Courtesy of Shutterstock
Sarah Bush Lincoln, a nonprofit hospital in Coles County, recently awarded Nandini Joag the 2016 Volunteer of the Year award for her work in the Regional Cancer Center and the gift shop.
Joag, who has logged 4,150 hours of volunteering since coming to Sarah Bush Lincoln in 1988, began her work as a tribute to her mother who passed away after battling cancer.
“I find the work really fulfilling, and I’d like to think that I have helped people through some tough times,” she said. “I bring a positive attitude to work with me and look for ways to help people in the cancer center. Volunteering at the hospital gives me a sense of pride -- and it makes me happy because I’m trying to improve the lives of community members by just being there for them.”
In addition to comforting patients and their families, Joag works in the gift shop, where all proceeds go toward health care scholarships and other guild initiatives. In the shop, she plans, displays and promotes the sale of various items.
In her 28th year at Sarah Bush Lincoln, Joag is still as committed as she was on her first day, celebrating that the organization is a team and family. She recommends likeminded pursuits to all who have spare time and are looking for a way to contribute.
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