LAKEPORT, Calif. – Nancy Helldorfer has spent her life in the hospital.

From helping as a candy striper, to serving as a nurse for 42 years, to joining the auxiliary, she has continuously devoted her time to others.

“My mother and great aunt were nurses, as is my daughter,” said Helldorfer. “I started as a candy striper at age twelve, and then became a nurses’ assistant. All I ever wanted was to be a nurse, so it was a natural progression to become an RN. I enjoy the hospital environment and interacting with staff, patients, and administration.”

Post-retirement, Helldorfer still spends hours a week at Sutter Lakeside.

“Volunteers are an essential part of the hospital. I’m proud to be a part of a group that goes out of their way to serve the community,” said Helldorfer. “We’ve also established a scholarship fund for employees to encourage a new generation of nurses, and promote professional growth within Sutter Lakeside.”

President Richard Nixon established National Volunteer Week in 1974, and every president since has issued a proclamation during the month of April urging Americans to strengthen their communities by giving back.

Sutter Lakeside Hospital has reason to celebrate: because of its dedicated team of volunteers, it can provide equipment and services to patients that we otherwise couldn’t.

In the last 10 years alone, auxiliary has helped furnish the Family Birth Center suites and Surgery Center waiting room, helped purchase the life saving Telestroke equipment, and funded countless other pieces of equipment that improve patients’ experiences with Sutter Lakeside Hospital.

According to Helldorfer, volunteering offers something for everyone.

“Socialization is a big part of Auxiliary; we visit patients with the Comfort Cart, make baby baskets for the Family Birth Center, work in the Surgery Center waiting room, and staff the gift shop. Most volunteers don’t have a clinical background because it’s not necessary,” she said.

Volunteering comes with a host of benefits as well.

“Giving back keeps us young – it’s good for the mind and soul. Taking care of others feels great and enhances life. It benefits everyone,” Helldorfer said.

Our four-legged furry friends are also an integral part of Sutter Lakeside’s volunteer force.

The canine companions who visit the hospital bring comfort and happiness to the patients who are away from their own pets.

The dogs and their owners also visit the Emergency Department waiting room, a place that is often synonymous with tension and frustration.

The mood-boosting pet rounding drastically improves patient experience and creates a more relaxing environment during an otherwise stressful time.

Sutter Lakeside Hospital volunteers exemplify what it means to give back and improve our community.

If you or someone you know is interested in Sutter Lakeside Hospital volunteer opportunities, please contact Morgen Wells at 707-262-5121, or by email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .

Morgen Wells is community relations and fund development specialist at Sutter Lakeside Hospital.