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For 18 years, lifelong Eastchester resident Jean Madsen has been volunteering at Lawrence Hospital Center. She is one of the millions of unsung heroes across the United States who seek out ways to help people in their communities. Madsen can be seen answering questions and greeting patients and visitors as they pass by the front desk in Lawrence's lobby.

Madsen says that when she heard the hospital was accepting new volunteers, almost two decades ago, she decided to sign up. Ever since she made that decision, she has never looked back. Madsen says that helping those in the community is one of the things that makes volunteering a worthwhile experience.

"The most rewarding thing about the job is the patients' gratitude for taking care of them as they're leaving the hospital," says Madsen. "When you volunteer, you know that you're doing something to help people. You're also providing a service to the community, which is important. It makes you feel good when you can help another person, and you're doing something that is valued."

Currently, Lawrence Hospital Center has more than 100 volunteers working throughout its hospital and its affiliate organizations.

"We appreciate all of the hours that all of the volunteers have given to the hospital and its patients throughout the years," says Terry Martino, Director of Volunteer Services at Lawrence.

When Lawrence opened its doors back in 1909, eight women saw the need for additional help at the medical facility. The eight formed a woman's board, with a goal of supplementing nurse and doctor care.

"As the number of volunteers increased over the years, the hospital's Board of Governors adopted a measure to form an official Lawrence Hospital Center Auxiliary," says Martino.

The Auxiliary was made official in 1954. This year marks its 60th anniversary.

To learn how you can volunteer at Lawrence Hospital Center, please visit hospital's website or call 914-787-3316.