After retiring from a rewarding career as a school teacher, Joanne Biederwolf found a new way to give back. She has been volunteering at Glencoe Regional Health for nearly ten years, bringing warmth, energy, and a love of people to everything she does.
Volunteering is in her blood. Her father was a volunteer firefighter and active in their church, always ready to lend a hand in the community.
“Growing up I saw him helping wherever he could, in the fire department, at church – just giving back. It led me to start volunteering too,” Joanne said.
That spirit of service left a lasting impression on her. Joanne’s connection to GRH is deeply personal. Her father was a resident at GlenFields Living with Care before he passed away.
“I keep coming back because I saw how well my dad was taken care of, and how happy he was here,” she said.
She and her husband raised two daughters in our community, and one of them now works at the Wound Center, making her involvement here even more meaningful.
Joanne has found many ways to share her time and talents at GRH. She helps assemble Birth Center boxes, thoughtfully packed with GRH-branded baby items to welcome new parents. She also works in the gift shop at Prairie Gifts & Grounds. Of all her volunteer roles, she especially enjoys the gift shop, where she can connect with residents, their families, and fellow volunteers, sharing conversation and brightening their day.
“I’m a people person and I love those interactions,” said Joanne.
Volunteers like Joanne are supported by Volunteer & Marketing Events Coordinator Denise Lemke, who helps guide their experience and connect them with opportunities that match their interests and availability. This personalized approach helps ensure each volunteer feels welcomed and valued in their role.
“Joanne has been a devoted and caring presence at GRH for many years,” said Denise. “Through her countless volunteer hours, she brings thoughtfulness, kindness, and a personal touch that brightens everyone’s day.”
Joanne’s favorite part of volunteering is running the cash register and helping people find the perfect merchandise. When asked to describe her volunteer experience in one word, she says “fulfillment.”
“It’s because I get to help people and give back to the community,” she added.
Through decades of teaching, raising a family, and volunteering, Joanne continues to embody the spirit of community.
“Her generosity, dedication, and genuine care have made a lasting difference in the lives of those we serve in our community,” said Denise. “We are truly fortunate to have her as a part of the GRH family.”
Our Community Cares Program for volunteers offers a variety of ways for our community members to get involved – from people-facing roles like personal interactions with GlenFields residents to behind-the-scenes support like assembling goodie bags for the GRH booth at the McLeod County Fair. Whether someone has a few hours to give or is looking for a more regular commitment, every volunteer’s time makes a meaningful difference.
“Volunteers are vital to GRH, bringing compassion and care that brighten the experiences of patients, residents, and families,” said Denise. “In a small community like Glencoe, they are often neighbors, friends, and familiar faces, fostering meaningful connections and strengthening the bond between GRH and the community.”
You can make a difference like Joanne! Click here to learn more about volunteer opportunities at GRH.
