Healing through humanity: The essential role of Sinai Health’s volunteers

From welcoming families with warmth to supporting patients in times when they need it most, volunteers make a meaningful impact across our hospitals.

“Whether helping visitors find their way, supporting patients at the bedside or simply showing up with a smile, our volunteers remind us that care goes beyond medicine,” says Theresa Shiel, Senior Manager of Volunteer Resources at Sinai Health. “They provide comfort, connection and compassion and are there to support patients throughout their health-care journey. We are deeply grateful to our volunteers who generously donate their time, energy and heart to care for our community.”

Meet some of our volunteers at Mount Sinai and Hennick Bridgepoint Hospitals and discover what motivates them to give back and make a difference in the lives of patients, caregivers and our people.  

Asim Nagaye

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I was inspired to volunteer because I want to make a positive impact on the lives of patients and those I work with at Hennick Bridgepoint. Through offering support and empathy, I hope to enhance the experience and well-being of our patients, ensuring that they feel valued and cared for in every interaction. This experience has truly been invaluable and I am thankful for the opportunity.

Asim Nagaye 
Maximizing Aging Using Volunteer Engagement (MAUVE) and Mealtime Assistance Program (MAP) volunteer, Hennick Bridgepoint Hospital

Jeff Wayne

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For me, the greatest joy is working with patients, their families and the people at Mount Sinai and Hennick Bridgepoint Hospitals. Every shift is different and always fulfilling. You never know why someone is visiting the hospital. Regardless of the reason, I hope that I can be of service and help reduce the stress of their hospital experience.

Jeff Wayne
Information Desk volunteer, Mount Sinai Hospital
MAUVE volunteer, Hennick Bridgepoint Hospital

Amy Li

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I feel so fortunate for the opportunity to be a part of Mount Sinai Hospital. I hope that our patients and visitors feel assured that there is someone, like me at the information desk, who is willing to assist and help them find whatever they need. I look forward to the moments when someone comes to the information desk at the beginning of my shift, and then stops by later to say ‘thank you’ because they were able to find the person or department they were looking for.

Amy Li
Information Desk volunteer, Mount Sinai Hospital

Michael Cheng

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I have always been interested in the science of medicine and the human body, but most of my experience with the field prior to volunteering was in academic settings. Volunteering at Sinai Health has given me the opportunity to gain practical experience in health care and give back to my community. In light of the isolation, anxiety and boredom patients often face during extended hospitalizations, I hope that my fellow volunteers and I can provide a sense of safety and joy to brighten their days.

Michael Cheng
MAUVE volunteer and piano player, Mount Sinai Hospital

Suzanne Shuchat

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I encourage people of all ages to consider becoming a volunteer. You will be able to help people, make new connections and create lasting friendships. I am lucky to have so many friends here who are very helpful and take care of me as though I’m their grandmother! But I still feel young at heart, and that’s because I stay active through volunteering!

Suzanne Shuchat
Information Desk volunteer, Mount Sinai Hospital

If you are interested in our volunteer programs, or would like to apply, we invite you to visit our Volunteer Resources page.