Written by Katie Lin
Edited by Ida Eva Zielinska
In a heartwarming display of community spirit and unwavering dedication, volunteers gathered again at our Tzu Chi Health Center in South El Monte on May 21, 2024, to reflect on and enhance their contributions to its waiting area. This gathering marked the second reunion since the initial meeting on January 30, 2024, which aimed to bring volunteers back to Tzu Chi Medical Foundation (TCMF) Health Centers. The continued commitment of these volunteers plays an essential role in creating a welcoming and supportive environment for patients.
Tzu Chi Health Centers, renowned for their holistic approach to health care, deeply value the presence of these volunteers. These selfless “blue angels,” so-called for the signature blue shirts worn by Tzu Chi volunteers, embody TCMF’s spirit and mission to safeguard patients’ lives, health, and overall well-being. They offer their time and skills to ensure that each patient feels comfortable and cared for from the moment they first step into a Tzu Chi Health Center.
This meeting aimed to discuss the work accomplished to enhance the waiting areas at the Tzu Chi Health Center in South El Monte and the one in Alhambra and identify other areas that might need improvement. The volunteers shared touching stories they had heard from patients, bringing a wealth of emotional depth and inspiration to the group. These heartfelt narratives have been beautifully compiled into a photo book, which serves as a cherished scrapbook celebrating the acts of service and moments of compassion that define their volunteer experience at the health centers.
Over the past few months, the volunteers have implemented various initiatives. Each volunteer brings a unique touch to the waiting area, from organizing reading materials and assisting patients with forms to offering a listening ear. As a prelude to medical care, they aim to create a comforting space that fosters calm and community.
During the meeting, the volunteers raised a notable issue: the difficulty some experience with reading small print on paperwork. To address this concern, Dr. Lina Lin, an optometrist at the South El Monte Health Center, generously offered free reading glasses for volunteers. This thoughtful gesture ensures that volunteers can perform their duties without straining their eyes, enhancing their ability to assist patients effectively.
The group’s suggestions for improvement included developing a comprehensive guide for new volunteers, formulating strategies for handling unreasonable patients, and recruiting patients to participate in Tzu Chi events if they have time. Volunteers emphasized the importance of continuous feedback and adaptation to meet evolving patient needs.
TCMF staff expressed their deep appreciation for the volunteers. Dr. Stephen Denq, Chief Executive Officer, remarked, “Our volunteers are the backbone of our patient care experience. Their dedication and kindness are what set our health centers apart. We are immensely grateful for their ongoing support.”
As the meeting concluded, the volunteers left with a renewed sense of purpose and a list of actionable items to further enhance the waiting area experience. Their commitment to continuous improvement reflects the core values of Tzu Chi Health Centers – compassion, respect, service, and safeguarding of life.
TCMF’s three Health Centers, one in South El Monte, another in Alhambra, and the third in Wilmington, continue to thrive thanks to the unwavering support of its volunteers. Their efforts ensure that every patient who walks through the doors is met with warmth and care, embodying the true spirit of community service.
