Each month, we recognize a volunteer who goes above and beyond to assist our patients and their families. Staff nominate our volunteers for this well-deserved recognition. Each Volunteer of the Month is eligible for Volunteer of the Year recognition. Are you a staff member who wants to recognize an amazing volunteer? Email Volunteering@NationwideChildrens.org to nominate him or her. December Volunteer of the Month: Rohith Paidikondala
More Than 320 Hours of Service Rohith Paidikondala began volunteering in 2019 and has given more than 320 hours of service. Rohith returned to volunteering in our Sibling Clubhouse in 2022 and has contributed nearly 150 hours this year. “Rohith has taken on several special projects unprompted since returning, shares Sibling Clubhouse Manager Kyle Lemstrom. “He is just a stellar person.” November Volunteer of the Month: Olivia Adams
More Than 160 Hours of Service Olivia Adams started volunteering in 2019 and has given more than 160 hours of service. Olivia previously served as a patient unit volunteer and holiday helper, and she currently volunteers in wayfinding and at the Sibling Clubhouse. As a wayfinding volunteer, Volunteer and Information Desk staff note that her bubbly personality makes a huge impact on the patient experience. After her wayfinding shift, Olivia heads over to the Sibling Clubhouse, where she has equally impressed staff. “It has been a pleasure to work with Olivia and observe her commitment to supporting children throughout their hospital experiences,” shares Volunteer Coordinator Brittany Wirthman. October Volunteer of the Month: Martha Lund
More Than 150 Hours of Service Martha Lund began volunteering in March 2020 and has given more than 150 hours of service. Martha was only able to attend two shifts before volunteering paused due to the pandemic, but she was one of the very first volunteers to return when Nationwide Children’s was in high need of playroom toy washing. She didn’t stop there; Martha joined the Sibling Clubhouse volunteer squad when it reopened, too. “Martha is very dependable and always willing to go above and beyond,” shares Volunteer Coordinator Brittany Wirthman. “She is a very versatile volunteer and is currently volunteering two days a week, filling three different volunteer roles! Martha always has a smile and really enjoys the camaraderie of her fellow volunteers.” September Volunteer of the Month: Melanie Alba Nava More than 175 hours of service
Melanie Alba Nava began volunteering in the Sibling Clubhouse in 2018 and has given more than 175 hours of service. “Melanie has been super reliable from the time she started four years ago as a teen and is a delight to work with,” shares Sibling Liaison Lisa Bendler. “She engages with any kiddo who comes our way, becoming immersed in whatever activities they choose. She has been an enormous support in keeping the Clubhouse in order and up to date on our toy wash. We’re so fortunate that she has returned now that we’re open again!” August Volunteer of the Month: John Hahn More than 1,060 Hours of Service John Hahn began volunteering in 2013 and has given more than 1,060 hours of service. John started as a D-Lobby Information Desk volunteer, where he accumulated over 1,000 hours. John was one of the first Wayfinding Volunteers: a new customer service role focused on escorting patients, families and visitors to where they need to go while providing support to our information desks. “John could not be more perfect for this role,” shares Volunteer Program Coordinator Brittany Wirthman. “The Volunteer Program and Nationwide Children’s are so lucky to have John as a volunteer.” July Volunteer of the Month: Jo Ann Bigham More than 453 Hours of Service Jo Ann Bigham began volunteering in the Sibling Clubhouse in 2015 and has given more than 450 hours of service. “Jo Ann’s a musician and sometimes brings her guitar,” shares Clubhouse Lead Kyle Lemstrom. “I’ve seen her reign in groups of rowdy kids to do marches and sing-a-longs.” “Jo Ann treats each sibling, volunteer and staff member as if they are the most special person in the world,” shares Sibling Liaison Linda Treglia. “She is interested in hearing about their interests, hobbies, schooling, jobs or what their favorite music is. Everyone in the Clubhouse is delighted when Jo Ann pulls out her guitar and entertains us with fun songs." June Volunteer of the Month: Angie Moseley More than 175 Hours of Service Angie Moseley began volunteering in 2018 and has given more than 175 hours of service, contributing to multiple volunteer assignments. She began volunteering in the teen program, and when the hospital was in need of toy washing volunteers, Angie was one of the first to step up. She has since transitioned to volunteering in our Sibling Clubhouse, another high need area. “I’ve seen that Angie brings a lot of warmth and enthusiasm to the Clubhouse,” shares Sibling Liaison Lead Kyle Lemstrom. “She makes strong, genuine connections with other volunteers and is a great playmate and friend to kids of all ages. She’s always empathetic and responsive to their needs.” May Volunteer of the Month: Angela Lee More Than 100 Hours of Service Angela (Angi) Lee started volunteering with the Nationwide Children’s Family Advisory Council in 2019 and has given more than 100 hours of service. She is currently involved in the Patient Experience Committee and has been a driving force for Family Advisory Council initiatives. In her committee and council roles, Angi attends monthly meetings and provides valuable feedback that positively impacts the patient experience. “I am so grateful for Angi’s voice and influence on The Parent Advisory Council as well as on our Patient and Family Experience Steering Committee,” shares Senior Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer Lee Ann Wallace. “She challenges us to find new and better ways to deliver our promise to our patients and families to Lead the way to Best Outcomes!.” April Volunteer of the Month: Dan Roseler More than 1,560 Hours of Service Dan Roseler began volunteering in 2006 and has given nearly 1,600 hours of service. Dan has been a long-term Admitting Gift and Infectious Diseases unit volunteer, and he currently helps with toy washing. “When the hospital was in high need of toy washing for the patient units, I knew if I reached out that Dan would be willing and ready,” shares Volunteer Program Coordinator Brittany Wirthman. Dan is also involved with “NACHO” (Nationwide Children’s Hospital Orchestra,) which is made up of Nationwide Children’s staff, family and friends working to raise awareness and money for the hospital and the Ronald McDonald House of Central Ohio. March Volunteer of the Month: Denny Mardas More than 2,600 hours of service Denny Mardas began volunteering in 2008 and has given more than 2,600 hours of service. He has primarily volunteered in Hematology/Oncology, but recently, Denny has focused on assisting with vigilant infection prevention measures and an increased need for supporting staff in cleaning patient unit toys. “Denny has been a wonderful volunteer for our program and has gone where needed to support patients and families,” shares Volunteer Program Manager Kim Cummin. “Denny has especially been a true contributor to our program during this tough time by helping the One Team effort to reduce staff work load though toy washing in patient care areas.” February Volunteer of the Month: Jennifer Zelei More Than 1,833 Hours of Service Jennifer Zelei has volunteered with Nationwide Children’s Hospital for 18 years and has given more then 1,833 hours of service. She’s volunteered with the C5 patient unit and Admitting Gift Cart, and she currently volunteers as a toy washer. “She makes a difference to so many by helping to keep the toys clean and safe, and by organizing resources in the playroom,” shares Child Life Clinical Lead Ashley Curcio. “Jennifer can always be found with a smile on her face and she truly embodies a helper mentality. She is very dependable, easily adapts to change, and goes above and beyond in many ways.” January Volunteer of the Month: Betty Hersch More Than 5,200 Hours of Service Betty Hersch began volunteering in 1997 and has given more than 5,200 hours of service. Betty primarily volunteers in Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICU) but also assists with clerical projects. She is one of the top three longest serving volunteers at Nationwide Children’s. “Betty has assisted with a variety of special projects and recently assisted with piloting our new Volunteer Education modules,” shares Volunteer Program Manager Kim Cummin. “Our team feels fortunate to have Betty in our program not just for her long term experience but also her dedication to serving our patients and families.”
Each month, we recognize a volunteer who goes above and beyond to assist our patients and their families. Staff nominate our volunteers for this well-deserved recognition. Each Volunteer of the Month is eligible for Volunteer of the Year recognition. Are you a staff member who wants to recognize an amazing volunteer? Email Volunteering@NationwideChildrens.org to nominate him or her. December Volunteer of the Month: Rohith Paidikondala
More Than 320 Hours of Service Rohith Paidikondala began volunteering in 2019 and has given more than 320 hours of service. Rohith returned to volunteering in our Sibling Clubhouse in 2022 and has contributed nearly 150 hours this year. “Rohith has taken on several special projects unprompted since returning, shares Sibling Clubhouse Manager Kyle Lemstrom. “He is just a stellar person.” November Volunteer of the Month: Olivia Adams
More Than 160 Hours of Service Olivia Adams started volunteering in 2019 and has given more than 160 hours of service. Olivia previously served as a patient unit volunteer and holiday helper, and she currently volunteers in wayfinding and at the Sibling Clubhouse. As a wayfinding volunteer, Volunteer and Information Desk staff note that her bubbly personality makes a huge impact on the patient experience. After her wayfinding shift, Olivia heads over to the Sibling Clubhouse, where she has equally impressed staff. “It has been a pleasure to work with Olivia and observe her commitment to supporting children throughout their hospital experiences,” shares Volunteer Coordinator Brittany Wirthman. October Volunteer of the Month: Martha Lund
More Than 150 Hours of Service Martha Lund began volunteering in March 2020 and has given more than 150 hours of service. Martha was only able to attend two shifts before volunteering paused due to the pandemic, but she was one of the very first volunteers to return when Nationwide Children’s was in high need of playroom toy washing. She didn’t stop there; Martha joined the Sibling Clubhouse volunteer squad when it reopened, too. “Martha is very dependable and always willing to go above and beyond,” shares Volunteer Coordinator Brittany Wirthman. “She is a very versatile volunteer and is currently volunteering two days a week, filling three different volunteer roles! Martha always has a smile and really enjoys the camaraderie of her fellow volunteers.” September Volunteer of the Month: Melanie Alba Nava More than 175 hours of service
Melanie Alba Nava began volunteering in the Sibling Clubhouse in 2018 and has given more than 175 hours of service. “Melanie has been super reliable from the time she started four years ago as a teen and is a delight to work with,” shares Sibling Liaison Lisa Bendler. “She engages with any kiddo who comes our way, becoming immersed in whatever activities they choose. She has been an enormous support in keeping the Clubhouse in order and up to date on our toy wash. We’re so fortunate that she has returned now that we’re open again!” August Volunteer of the Month: John Hahn More than 1,060 Hours of Service John Hahn began volunteering in 2013 and has given more than 1,060 hours of service. John started as a D-Lobby Information Desk volunteer, where he accumulated over 1,000 hours. John was one of the first Wayfinding Volunteers: a new customer service role focused on escorting patients, families and visitors to where they need to go while providing support to our information desks. “John could not be more perfect for this role,” shares Volunteer Program Coordinator Brittany Wirthman. “The Volunteer Program and Nationwide Children’s are so lucky to have John as a volunteer.” July Volunteer of the Month: Jo Ann Bigham More than 453 Hours of Service Jo Ann Bigham began volunteering in the Sibling Clubhouse in 2015 and has given more than 450 hours of service. “Jo Ann’s a musician and sometimes brings her guitar,” shares Clubhouse Lead Kyle Lemstrom. “I’ve seen her reign in groups of rowdy kids to do marches and sing-a-longs.” “Jo Ann treats each sibling, volunteer and staff member as if they are the most special person in the world,” shares Sibling Liaison Linda Treglia. “She is interested in hearing about their interests, hobbies, schooling, jobs or what their favorite music is. Everyone in the Clubhouse is delighted when Jo Ann pulls out her guitar and entertains us with fun songs." June Volunteer of the Month: Angie Moseley More than 175 Hours of Service Angie Moseley began volunteering in 2018 and has given more than 175 hours of service, contributing to multiple volunteer assignments. She began volunteering in the teen program, and when the hospital was in need of toy washing volunteers, Angie was one of the first to step up. She has since transitioned to volunteering in our Sibling Clubhouse, another high need area. “I’ve seen that Angie brings a lot of warmth and enthusiasm to the Clubhouse,” shares Sibling Liaison Lead Kyle Lemstrom. “She makes strong, genuine connections with other volunteers and is a great playmate and friend to kids of all ages. She’s always empathetic and responsive to their needs.” May Volunteer of the Month: Angela Lee More Than 100 Hours of Service Angela (Angi) Lee started volunteering with the Nationwide Children’s Family Advisory Council in 2019 and has given more than 100 hours of service. She is currently involved in the Patient Experience Committee and has been a driving force for Family Advisory Council initiatives. In her committee and council roles, Angi attends monthly meetings and provides valuable feedback that positively impacts the patient experience. “I am so grateful for Angi’s voice and influence on The Parent Advisory Council as well as on our Patient and Family Experience Steering Committee,” shares Senior Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer Lee Ann Wallace. “She challenges us to find new and better ways to deliver our promise to our patients and families to Lead the way to Best Outcomes!.” April Volunteer of the Month: Dan Roseler More than 1,560 Hours of Service Dan Roseler began volunteering in 2006 and has given nearly 1,600 hours of service. Dan has been a long-term Admitting Gift and Infectious Diseases unit volunteer, and he currently helps with toy washing. “When the hospital was in high need of toy washing for the patient units, I knew if I reached out that Dan would be willing and ready,” shares Volunteer Program Coordinator Brittany Wirthman. Dan is also involved with “NACHO” (Nationwide Children’s Hospital Orchestra,) which is made up of Nationwide Children’s staff, family and friends working to raise awareness and money for the hospital and the Ronald McDonald House of Central Ohio. March Volunteer of the Month: Denny Mardas More than 2,600 hours of service Denny Mardas began volunteering in 2008 and has given more than 2,600 hours of service. He has primarily volunteered in Hematology/Oncology, but recently, Denny has focused on assisting with vigilant infection prevention measures and an increased need for supporting staff in cleaning patient unit toys. “Denny has been a wonderful volunteer for our program and has gone where needed to support patients and families,” shares Volunteer Program Manager Kim Cummin. “Denny has especially been a true contributor to our program during this tough time by helping the One Team effort to reduce staff work load though toy washing in patient care areas.” February Volunteer of the Month: Jennifer Zelei More Than 1,833 Hours of Service Jennifer Zelei has volunteered with Nationwide Children’s Hospital for 18 years and has given more then 1,833 hours of service. She’s volunteered with the C5 patient unit and Admitting Gift Cart, and she currently volunteers as a toy washer. “She makes a difference to so many by helping to keep the toys clean and safe, and by organizing resources in the playroom,” shares Child Life Clinical Lead Ashley Curcio. “Jennifer can always be found with a smile on her face and she truly embodies a helper mentality. She is very dependable, easily adapts to change, and goes above and beyond in many ways.” January Volunteer of the Month: Betty Hersch More Than 5,200 Hours of Service Betty Hersch began volunteering in 1997 and has given more than 5,200 hours of service. Betty primarily volunteers in Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICU) but also assists with clerical projects. She is one of the top three longest serving volunteers at Nationwide Children’s. “Betty has assisted with a variety of special projects and recently assisted with piloting our new Volunteer Education modules,” shares Volunteer Program Manager Kim Cummin. “Our team feels fortunate to have Betty in our program not just for her long term experience but also her dedication to serving our patients and families.”
Each month, we recognize a volunteer who goes above and beyond to assist our patients and their families. Staff nominate our volunteers for this well-deserved recognition. Each Volunteer of the Month is eligible for Volunteer of the Year recognition. Are you a staff member who wants to recognize an amazing volunteer? Email Volunteering@NationwideChildrens.org to nominate him or her. December Volunteer of the Month: Rohith Paidikondala
More Than 320 Hours of Service Rohith Paidikondala began volunteering in 2019 and has given more than 320 hours of service. Rohith returned to volunteering in our Sibling Clubhouse in 2022 and has contributed nearly 150 hours this year. “Rohith has taken on several special projects unprompted since returning, shares Sibling Clubhouse Manager Kyle Lemstrom. “He is just a stellar person.” November Volunteer of the Month: Olivia Adams
More Than 160 Hours of Service Olivia Adams started volunteering in 2019 and has given more than 160 hours of service. Olivia previously served as a patient unit volunteer and holiday helper, and she currently volunteers in wayfinding and at the Sibling Clubhouse. As a wayfinding volunteer, Volunteer and Information Desk staff note that her bubbly personality makes a huge impact on the patient experience. After her wayfinding shift, Olivia heads over to the Sibling Clubhouse, where she has equally impressed staff. “It has been a pleasure to work with Olivia and observe her commitment to supporting children throughout their hospital experiences,” shares Volunteer Coordinator Brittany Wirthman. October Volunteer of the Month: Martha Lund
More Than 150 Hours of Service Martha Lund began volunteering in March 2020 and has given more than 150 hours of service. Martha was only able to attend two shifts before volunteering paused due to the pandemic, but she was one of the very first volunteers to return when Nationwide Children’s was in high need of playroom toy washing. She didn’t stop there; Martha joined the Sibling Clubhouse volunteer squad when it reopened, too. “Martha is very dependable and always willing to go above and beyond,” shares Volunteer Coordinator Brittany Wirthman. “She is a very versatile volunteer and is currently volunteering two days a week, filling three different volunteer roles! Martha always has a smile and really enjoys the camaraderie of her fellow volunteers.” September Volunteer of the Month: Melanie Alba Nava More than 175 hours of service
Melanie Alba Nava began volunteering in the Sibling Clubhouse in 2018 and has given more than 175 hours of service. “Melanie has been super reliable from the time she started four years ago as a teen and is a delight to work with,” shares Sibling Liaison Lisa Bendler. “She engages with any kiddo who comes our way, becoming immersed in whatever activities they choose. She has been an enormous support in keeping the Clubhouse in order and up to date on our toy wash. We’re so fortunate that she has returned now that we’re open again!” August Volunteer of the Month: John Hahn More than 1,060 Hours of Service John Hahn began volunteering in 2013 and has given more than 1,060 hours of service. John started as a D-Lobby Information Desk volunteer, where he accumulated over 1,000 hours. John was one of the first Wayfinding Volunteers: a new customer service role focused on escorting patients, families and visitors to where they need to go while providing support to our information desks. “John could not be more perfect for this role,” shares Volunteer Program Coordinator Brittany Wirthman. “The Volunteer Program and Nationwide Children’s are so lucky to have John as a volunteer.” July Volunteer of the Month: Jo Ann Bigham More than 453 Hours of Service Jo Ann Bigham began volunteering in the Sibling Clubhouse in 2015 and has given more than 450 hours of service. “Jo Ann’s a musician and sometimes brings her guitar,” shares Clubhouse Lead Kyle Lemstrom. “I’ve seen her reign in groups of rowdy kids to do marches and sing-a-longs.” “Jo Ann treats each sibling, volunteer and staff member as if they are the most special person in the world,” shares Sibling Liaison Linda Treglia. “She is interested in hearing about their interests, hobbies, schooling, jobs or what their favorite music is. Everyone in the Clubhouse is delighted when Jo Ann pulls out her guitar and entertains us with fun songs." June Volunteer of the Month: Angie Moseley More than 175 Hours of Service Angie Moseley began volunteering in 2018 and has given more than 175 hours of service, contributing to multiple volunteer assignments. She began volunteering in the teen program, and when the hospital was in need of toy washing volunteers, Angie was one of the first to step up. She has since transitioned to volunteering in our Sibling Clubhouse, another high need area. “I’ve seen that Angie brings a lot of warmth and enthusiasm to the Clubhouse,” shares Sibling Liaison Lead Kyle Lemstrom. “She makes strong, genuine connections with other volunteers and is a great playmate and friend to kids of all ages. She’s always empathetic and responsive to their needs.” May Volunteer of the Month: Angela Lee More Than 100 Hours of Service Angela (Angi) Lee started volunteering with the Nationwide Children’s Family Advisory Council in 2019 and has given more than 100 hours of service. She is currently involved in the Patient Experience Committee and has been a driving force for Family Advisory Council initiatives. In her committee and council roles, Angi attends monthly meetings and provides valuable feedback that positively impacts the patient experience. “I am so grateful for Angi’s voice and influence on The Parent Advisory Council as well as on our Patient and Family Experience Steering Committee,” shares Senior Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer Lee Ann Wallace. “She challenges us to find new and better ways to deliver our promise to our patients and families to Lead the way to Best Outcomes!.” April Volunteer of the Month: Dan Roseler More than 1,560 Hours of Service Dan Roseler began volunteering in 2006 and has given nearly 1,600 hours of service. Dan has been a long-term Admitting Gift and Infectious Diseases unit volunteer, and he currently helps with toy washing. “When the hospital was in high need of toy washing for the patient units, I knew if I reached out that Dan would be willing and ready,” shares Volunteer Program Coordinator Brittany Wirthman. Dan is also involved with “NACHO” (Nationwide Children’s Hospital Orchestra,) which is made up of Nationwide Children’s staff, family and friends working to raise awareness and money for the hospital and the Ronald McDonald House of Central Ohio. March Volunteer of the Month: Denny Mardas More than 2,600 hours of service Denny Mardas began volunteering in 2008 and has given more than 2,600 hours of service. He has primarily volunteered in Hematology/Oncology, but recently, Denny has focused on assisting with vigilant infection prevention measures and an increased need for supporting staff in cleaning patient unit toys. “Denny has been a wonderful volunteer for our program and has gone where needed to support patients and families,” shares Volunteer Program Manager Kim Cummin. “Denny has especially been a true contributor to our program during this tough time by helping the One Team effort to reduce staff work load though toy washing in patient care areas.” February Volunteer of the Month: Jennifer Zelei More Than 1,833 Hours of Service Jennifer Zelei has volunteered with Nationwide Children’s Hospital for 18 years and has given more then 1,833 hours of service. She’s volunteered with the C5 patient unit and Admitting Gift Cart, and she currently volunteers as a toy washer. “She makes a difference to so many by helping to keep the toys clean and safe, and by organizing resources in the playroom,” shares Child Life Clinical Lead Ashley Curcio. “Jennifer can always be found with a smile on her face and she truly embodies a helper mentality. She is very dependable, easily adapts to change, and goes above and beyond in many ways.” January Volunteer of the Month: Betty Hersch More Than 5,200 Hours of Service Betty Hersch began volunteering in 1997 and has given more than 5,200 hours of service. Betty primarily volunteers in Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICU) but also assists with clerical projects. She is one of the top three longest serving volunteers at Nationwide Children’s. “Betty has assisted with a variety of special projects and recently assisted with piloting our new Volunteer Education modules,” shares Volunteer Program Manager Kim Cummin. “Our team feels fortunate to have Betty in our program not just for her long term experience but also her dedication to serving our patients and families.”
Each month, we recognize a volunteer who goes above and beyond to assist our patients and their families.
Staff nominate our volunteers for this well-deserved recognition. Each Volunteer of the Month is eligible for Volunteer of the Year recognition.
Are you a staff member who wants to recognize an amazing volunteer? Email Volunteering@NationwideChildrens.org to nominate him or her.
December Volunteer of the Month: Rohith Paidikondala
More Than 320 Hours of Service
Rohith Paidikondala began volunteering in 2019 and has given more than 320 hours of service. Rohith returned to volunteering in our Sibling Clubhouse in 2022 and has contributed nearly 150 hours this year. “Rohith has taken on several special projects unprompted since returning, shares Sibling Clubhouse Manager Kyle Lemstrom. “He is just a stellar person.”
November Volunteer of the Month: Olivia Adams
More Than 160 Hours of Service
Olivia Adams started volunteering in 2019 and has given more than 160 hours of service. Olivia previously served as a patient unit volunteer and holiday helper, and she currently volunteers in wayfinding and at the Sibling Clubhouse. As a wayfinding volunteer, Volunteer and Information Desk staff note that her bubbly personality makes a huge impact on the patient experience. After her wayfinding shift, Olivia heads over to the Sibling Clubhouse, where she has equally impressed staff. “It has been a pleasure to work with Olivia and observe her commitment to supporting children throughout their hospital experiences,” shares Volunteer Coordinator Brittany Wirthman.
October Volunteer of the Month: Martha Lund
More Than 150 Hours of Service
Martha Lund began volunteering in March 2020 and has given more than 150 hours of service. Martha was only able to attend two shifts before volunteering paused due to the pandemic, but she was one of the very first volunteers to return when Nationwide Children’s was in high need of playroom toy washing. She didn’t stop there; Martha joined the Sibling Clubhouse volunteer squad when it reopened, too. “Martha is very dependable and always willing to go above and beyond,” shares Volunteer Coordinator Brittany Wirthman. “She is a very versatile volunteer and is currently volunteering two days a week, filling three different volunteer roles! Martha always has a smile and really enjoys the camaraderie of her fellow volunteers.”
September Volunteer of the Month: Melanie Alba Nava
More than 175 hours of service
Melanie Alba Nava began volunteering in the Sibling Clubhouse in 2018 and has given more than 175 hours of service. “Melanie has been super reliable from the time she started four years ago as a teen and is a delight to work with,” shares Sibling Liaison Lisa Bendler. “She engages with any kiddo who comes our way, becoming immersed in whatever activities they choose. She has been an enormous support in keeping the Clubhouse in order and up to date on our toy wash. We’re so fortunate that she has returned now that we’re open again!”
August Volunteer of the Month: John Hahn
More than 1,060 Hours of Service
John Hahn began volunteering in 2013 and has given more than 1,060 hours of service. John started as a D-Lobby Information Desk volunteer, where he accumulated over 1,000 hours. John was one of the first Wayfinding Volunteers: a new customer service role focused on escorting patients, families and visitors to where they need to go while providing support to our information desks. “John could not be more perfect for this role,” shares Volunteer Program Coordinator Brittany Wirthman. “The Volunteer Program and Nationwide Children’s are so lucky to have John as a volunteer.”
July Volunteer of the Month: Jo Ann Bigham
More than 453 Hours of Service
Jo Ann Bigham began volunteering in the Sibling Clubhouse in 2015 and has given more than 450 hours of service. “Jo Ann’s a musician and sometimes brings her guitar,” shares Clubhouse Lead Kyle Lemstrom. “I’ve seen her reign in groups of rowdy kids to do marches and sing-a-longs.” “Jo Ann treats each sibling, volunteer and staff member as if they are the most special person in the world,” shares Sibling Liaison Linda Treglia. “She is interested in hearing about their interests, hobbies, schooling, jobs or what their favorite music is. Everyone in the Clubhouse is delighted when Jo Ann pulls out her guitar and entertains us with fun songs."
June Volunteer of the Month: Angie Moseley
More than 175 Hours of Service
Angie Moseley began volunteering in 2018 and has given more than 175 hours of service, contributing to multiple volunteer assignments. She began volunteering in the teen program, and when the hospital was in need of toy washing volunteers, Angie was one of the first to step up. She has since transitioned to volunteering in our Sibling Clubhouse, another high need area. “I’ve seen that Angie brings a lot of warmth and enthusiasm to the Clubhouse,” shares Sibling Liaison Lead Kyle Lemstrom. “She makes strong, genuine connections with other volunteers and is a great playmate and friend to kids of all ages. She’s always empathetic and responsive to their needs.”
May Volunteer of the Month: Angela Lee
More Than 100 Hours of Service
Angela (Angi) Lee started volunteering with the Nationwide Children’s Family Advisory Council in 2019 and has given more than 100 hours of service. She is currently involved in the Patient Experience Committee and has been a driving force for Family Advisory Council initiatives. In her committee and council roles, Angi attends monthly meetings and provides valuable feedback that positively impacts the patient experience. “I am so grateful for Angi’s voice and influence on The Parent Advisory Council as well as on our Patient and Family Experience Steering Committee,” shares Senior Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer Lee Ann Wallace. “She challenges us to find new and better ways to deliver our promise to our patients and families to Lead the way to Best Outcomes!.”
April Volunteer of the Month: Dan Roseler
More than 1,560 Hours of Service
Dan Roseler began volunteering in 2006 and has given nearly 1,600 hours of service. Dan has been a long-term Admitting Gift and Infectious Diseases unit volunteer, and he currently helps with toy washing. “When the hospital was in high need of toy washing for the patient units, I knew if I reached out that Dan would be willing and ready,” shares Volunteer Program Coordinator Brittany Wirthman. Dan is also involved with “NACHO” (Nationwide Children’s Hospital Orchestra,) which is made up of Nationwide Children’s staff, family and friends working to raise awareness and money for the hospital and the Ronald McDonald House of Central Ohio.
March Volunteer of the Month: Denny Mardas
More than 2,600 hours of service
Denny Mardas began volunteering in 2008 and has given more than 2,600 hours of service. He has primarily volunteered in Hematology/Oncology, but recently, Denny has focused on assisting with vigilant infection prevention measures and an increased need for supporting staff in cleaning patient unit toys. “Denny has been a wonderful volunteer for our program and has gone where needed to support patients and families,” shares Volunteer Program Manager Kim Cummin. “Denny has especially been a true contributor to our program during this tough time by helping the One Team effort to reduce staff work load though toy washing in patient care areas.”
February Volunteer of the Month: Jennifer Zelei
More Than 1,833 Hours of Service
Jennifer Zelei has volunteered with Nationwide Children’s Hospital for 18 years and has given more then 1,833 hours of service. She’s volunteered with the C5 patient unit and Admitting Gift Cart, and she currently volunteers as a toy washer. “She makes a difference to so many by helping to keep the toys clean and safe, and by organizing resources in the playroom,” shares Child Life Clinical Lead Ashley Curcio. “Jennifer can always be found with a smile on her face and she truly embodies a helper mentality. She is very dependable, easily adapts to change, and goes above and beyond in many ways.”
January Volunteer of the Month: Betty Hersch
More Than 5,200 Hours of Service
Betty Hersch began volunteering in 1997 and has given more than 5,200 hours of service. Betty primarily volunteers in Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICU) but also assists with clerical projects. She is one of the top three longest serving volunteers at Nationwide Children’s. “Betty has assisted with a variety of special projects and recently assisted with piloting our new Volunteer Education modules,” shares Volunteer Program Manager Kim Cummin. “Our team feels fortunate to have Betty in our program not just for her long term experience but also her dedication to serving our patients and families.”
