Nicholas Joy shares significance of winning 2025 Charles Strobel Legacy of Service Award

Host Jeremy C. Park talks with Nicholas Joy, who recently was honored with the Charles Strobel Legacy of Service Award at the 2025 Strobel Volunteer Awards hosted by Hands On Nashville powered by United Way of Greater Nashville. Nicholas was recognized for his more than 275 hours of volunteerism as an Emergency Department Ambassador at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. During the interview, Nicholas shares his journey from a high school volunteer in Houston, Texas, to his current role in Nashville, Tennessee, highlighting how his experiences, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, deepened his understanding of volunteering and its impact. He discusses his experiences connecting with patients, the importance of human connection in healthcare, and his efforts to support individuals during challenging situations, while also reflecting on the power and importance of volunteerism and how others can help make a difference in the community.

Emergency Department Volunteer's Journey
Nicholas Joy received the 2025 Charles Strobel Legacy of Service Award for his work as an Emergency Department Ambassador at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. Nicholas shares his journey from a high school volunteer in Houston to his current role, highlighting how his experiences, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, deepened his understanding of volunteering and its impact. He describes the unique challenges and rewards of volunteering in the emergency department, where brief interactions can still make a meaningful difference.

Human Connection in Healthcare
Nicholas shares a meaningful experience from his work in the emergency department, where he connected with a lonely patient who had been isolated for several hours. He spent an extended period talking with her, providing comfort and a listening ear rather than medical care. The interaction highlights the importance of human connection in healthcare, as the patient simply needed someone to talk to and share her thoughts with during a difficult time.

Emergency Department Ambassador Experience
Nicholas discusses his experience as an emergency department ambassador, highlighting the significance of forming connections and supporting patients during their often unexpected visits. He reflects on the 275+ hours he dedicated to this role, emphasizing the variety of experiences and the impact of being present for individuals in challenging situations. Nicholas expresses hope that his efforts contributed to patients feeling cared for and supported during their time in the emergency room.

Volunteerism's Impact on Medical Aspirations
Nicholas discusses his experience transitioning from Houston to Nashville, where he found a strong sense of Southern hospitality and community. He highlights the impact of volunteerism on his personal and professional growth, particularly in his role as an aspiring physician. Nicholas was awarded the Charles Strobel Legacy of Service Award, which he views as an honor to continue the Strobel family's philanthropic legacy. He has been involved in various volunteer initiatives, including founding the Student Volunteers at Vanderbilt Medical Center program and serving as an ED lead volunteer, where he mentors new volunteers in patient interactions. Nicholas emphasizes the importance of building patient rapport and working collaboratively with families to meet needs more effectively.

Service Award and Volunteer Opportunities
Nicholas shares his perspective on the Charles Strobel Legacy of Service Award, emphasizing the importance of leveraging unique skills and interests to serve others, whether through healthcare, teaching, coaching, or other community activities. He highlights various volunteer opportunities at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, including the Emergency Department Ambassador program, and provided contact information for those interested in learning more about volunteering.

For more information on becoming an Emergency Department Ambassador or volunteering with Vanderbilt University Medical Center visit https://www.vumc.org/volunteer-vander....