Gretchen Johnson, a youth volunteer, and resident Edna Rhoads enjoy looking over books in the Masonic Health Care Center Library.

Volunteers were asked at the Masonic Health Care Center: "Why do you volunteer? What keeps you coming back each week?"

Their answers were interesting, such as: "I'm needed." "I'm so glad I was here today." "It gives me great reward to see the joy on a resident's face as I escort her from physical therapy, giving her a hug or a handshake as we go." "The nursing staff took such loving care of my father, it's my way of showing gratitude." "If I can add one more smile to a resident's day, why not?" "The residents here have such history and stories to share." "Because I get much more than I give."

Presently, the Volunteer Services Department in Elizabethtown has several volunteer opportunities available. Some opportunities work best with specific weekly time commitments, while others offer flexibility according to the volunteer's schedule. You could choose to be: a courier in a resident care unit, helping in ways such as: reading mail or filling pitchers; an escort in the Rehab Department or the Beauty Salon and Barber Shop; an assistant with staff personnel in the Therapeutic Recreation Department offering programs, special events, or crafts; an escort to and from the 2 p.m. Sunday church service (there's a great idea for a lodge to consider); a volunteer visitor for residents who have no family or friends nearby; or a volunteer assisting the music therapist.

Mother Teresa said, "We can do no great things; only small things with great love." To volunteer, call today to see how you or your lodge can make a difference doing small things with great compassion: (717) 367-1121, Ext. 33175.