Maggie Atwood has experienced many memorable and rewarding interactions while assisting patients, residents and family members as a LincolnHealth volunteer. A longtime resident of Sheepscott Village, Atwood has been sharing her time and talents since 2009 on the Miles Campus, at the hospital and at Cove’s Edge Nursing and Skilled Rehabilitation. 

“I am here a lot, and that’s by choice,” said Atwood, who has logged more than 2,000 hours of assistance since she began more than 15 years ago. “I’ve been blessed with a very good life, and my focus has always been helping, caring and loving people less fortunate than I.” 

Atwood supports patients and families by visiting them on the inpatient floor, in the emergency department and wherever she is needed. She also provides end-of-life support as a member of the Compassionate Companion program. And if that is not enough, she’s a Chaplain On Call and a member of the LincolnHealth Art Committee. 

Atwood is just one of the 115 active volunteers donating their time and talents to benefit patients, residents and LincolnHealth staff. They have collectively contributed more than 8,000 hours this past year across many different locations in both Damariscotta and Boothbay Harbor.   

LincolnHealth volunteers help with senior living activities, wayfinding, administrative services, compassionate companions, pet therapy, garden club support and much more. 

“I am continually amazed by our volunteers’ willingness to lend a hand where needed,’’ said Cindy Wade, LincolnHealth President. “It’s nice to see the many familiar faces sporting their Volunteer Services jackets when I make rounds at the hospital or visit our nursing facilities.” 

Wade said our volunteers are a direct reflection of LincolnHealth’s culture, where friends and neighbors care for neighbors and friends.  

“Our volunteers lift our spirits while also providing valuable and needed support,’’ Wade said. “I am so grateful for their contributions.” 

National Volunteer Appreciation Week is celebrated annually during the third week of April in the United States (April 21-27 this year). It was established in 1974 and has grown from its small beginning to a week of expressing gratitude and thanks to those who donate their time and talents in their respective communities. 

“Our volunteers are a part of the LincolnHealth family,’’ said Connie Bright, director of volunteer services. “Their skills, along with their compassion and caring, very often lift the spirits of people who are ill, their families and the caregivers.”   

“They ask for nothing in return, other than a simple thank you,’’ Bright said. “So, if you happen to see one of our volunteers at the 15 locations where they help out, take a second to say hello and thank you for your time, especially during the week of April 21-27.”