In the spring of 2022, Mercy Care will unveil its first dedicated volunteer resource center at its Decatur Street location. It will be a dedicated space for volunteer groups to assemble kits, wrap Christmas gifts, collect gifts of warmth, and store meal and hygiene kit components.

Mercy Care, a network of primary care clinics that serve the poor, uninsured and those experiencing homelessness, has always had a robust volunteer program.

Over the years, it grew from certifying medical professionals to large-scale projects with companies and congregations. Some corporations invite their staff to participate in team-building volunteer projects. Others are religious congregations who “adopt” patients and patient families. Managing all these moving parts are Nicole Smith, volunteer engagement coordinator, and Eurana Garcia, volunteer engagement specialist.

Smith, who has overseen volunteer services for Mercy Care since 2007, says she welcomes the opportunity to partner with the community. “Many times, groups come to us for a one-off project and stay as volunteers for years.”

Most recently, Mercy Care hosted its annual Back-to-School backpack giveaway. More than 700 backpacks filled with school supplies were assembled and distributed thanks to volunteers, donors and Mercy Care Chamblee’s neighbor Pattillo Industrial Real Estate.

“The members of our team have children, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. They recognize the importance of access to essential school supplies,” said Pattillo CEO Josh Harrison. “We are proud to sponsor an event that impacts so many of the children and families in our community.”

Organizations like Microsoft, still working remotely, are engaging with Mercy Care patients over Zoom. A team from Microsoft hosted a basket-build-party for women recently discharged from the hospital and referred to Mercy Care’s Recuperative Care program. The volunteers put together baskets of needed essentials for the women who are hoping to find stable housing after recovery. Microsoft also donated the financial equivalent of their time.

“Since COVID hit, there has been an uptick in requests from employers wanting opportunities for their employees to connect,” Smith said. “It is moving to see in a time of crisis so many who want to help. However, Mercy Care patients working hard to better their lives need help, hope, encouragement, love and prayers every day.

As Eurana Garcia fittingly articulates, “We can’t do it all. But we can all do something. And my something is a result of your something. Because of that, I believe in what I do.”