When the grandfather clock in the lobby of Pen Bay Medical Center struck 2 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 15, it signified more than just the time of day. The tolling of the bells marked the 10,000th career hour of in-hospital volunteering contributed by Margaret Carpenter of Rockland. For the past 20 years, Carpenter has been volunteering at both the PBMC Gift Shop and the Front Lobby Reception Area. Over the years she has also helped various other departments and with special events. She also has served as the hospital's Auxiliary Treasurer for many years.
Folks gathered in the front lobby reception area of the hospital for refreshments and to mark this milestone-the first time a PBMC in-hospital volunteer attained 10,000 career hours. Carpenter was surrounded by family, friends and colleagues and was presented with congratulations, appreciation and awards.
Roy Hitchings, president and CEO of Pen Bay Healthcare, parent of Penobscot Bay Medical Center, read a letter direct from the White House and signed by President Barack Obama congratulating and thanking Carpenter for her contributions.
Tom Girard, VP Human Resources at PBH then presented Carpenter with the President's 2009 Volunteer Service Award (from the President's Council on Service and Civic Participation). On display was a photo of Carpenter when she starting volunteering with the Red Cross in Rhode Island at age 19.
Carpenter enjoyed the festivities and shared a few thoughts about volunteering.
"I really enjoy volunteering here at Pen Bay. It is lots of fun and the people are great. It is amazing how just 10 to 15 hours a week can add up over the years. It's great to keep busy and be able to make a contribution here at the hospital," she said.
"Margaret is part of a great team of volunteers at Pen Bay. Each day they make positive contributions to the lives of our patients, visitors and staff. New folks join the team regularly and many others like Margaret have contributed thousands of hours over many, many years," said Judi Trenholm, volunteer director at PBMC.
For more information on volunteer opportunities at PBMC, please call Trenholm at 596-8553 or visit penbayhealthcare.org/volunteer.