The Quiet Power of Service

When the first group of volunteers gathered at 6:15 a.m. on June 24, the campus was still quiet. Armed with gloves, safety vests, grabbers and trash bags, they set out on a task that most people would never describe as glamorous: picking up litter around the Adventist Health Portland campus.
By the end of the day at 8:15 p.m., 24 employees across three volunteer shifts had helped make the campus cleaner and more welcoming for everyone who walks through its doors.

For Terry Johnsson, Mission Integration Executive, the day served as a powerful reminder that the event wasn't really about picking up trash.
It was about service.

There are many ways to serve others, but few are as humble as quietly cleaning up after people you'll never meet. There are no accolades. No spotlight. Just individuals choosing to give their time because they care deeply about this place, their coworkers, patients and families.
As Johnsson reflected on the day, he was reminded that service is not defined by the size of the task, but by the heart behind it. The volunteers demonstrated a spirit of generosity and compassion that reflects who Adventist Health strives to be as an organization.

One of the many ways employees can learn about opportunities like this is through the Volunteer Squad, which has grown to more than 225 members. Membership simply keeps employees informed about volunteer opportunities throughout the year, allowing them to participate whenever an opportunity aligns with their interests and schedules.

The campus clean-up itself is about much more than appearances. Every piece of litter removed helps create a welcoming environment for those who come seeking healing, comfort and hope. The condition of the campus sends a message before a patient enters the hospital. It reflects the pride Adventist Health takes in caring for every person who entrusts the organization with their health. A clean, welcoming campus tells patients, visitors and team members alike that this is a place where people care.

Adventist Health extends its gratitude to every volunteer who rolled up their sleeves and served with humility. Their willingness to take on one of the least glamorous jobs says something profound about their character and about the culture that continues to be built across the organization.

As Johnsson noted, each act of service—whether seen or unseen—helps bring Adventist Health's mission of living God's love by inspiring health, wholeness and hope to life. For that, the organization is deeply grateful.Provide your feedback on BizChat