Ruth

To build rapport with patients, Ruth Jarvis comes to their bedside armed with bright pink hair, a big smile and toys generously donated by the community.

A volunteer at Children’s Medical Center Plano, Ruth will stop by a child’s room to gift them a blanket or a book. And as soon as she knows what a child enjoys or likes to read, she’s ready to play or put on her best voice for story time.

“Other times, I just sit with patients in their room and let them know that someone is here for them,” Ruth said. “I see volunteering as helping children become the future.”

More than anything else, Ruth is a master of patience. And time equals trust.

It could take a few days of volunteers like Ruth dropping by to say hello before a patient asks them to play. It could take an hour of coloring next to a child before they pick up a crayon.

For kids who have longer stays, she’s a master at finding creative ways to inspire fun or give parents the opportunity to take a moment to themselves.

“As much as I’m here for the kids, I’m here for the parents, too. Sometimes they need to take a walk or spend time with their other children. I can help take some of that burden off them,” she said.

Ruth began volunteering at Children’s Health when she was thinking about becoming a pediatric nurse. She’s currently a junior at the University of North Texas and, although she decided to pursue a career in education, she plans to stay on as a volunteer, even after she becomes a teacher.

“Anyone can volunteer. We all have the capacity to help people and bring joy,” Ruth said. “Our volunteers are from all walks of life, and we’re here with one purpose: to help kids.”