CommunityHealth shines the Volunteer Spotlight on Elizabeth Lakoma as our June Volunteer of the Month!
Elizabeth Lakoma has been with CommunityHealth for 2 years, contributing an impressive 384 volunteer hours. She began as a Polish interpreter and recently stepped into a new role as a trainer for our interpreter trainings. Elizabeth is always quick to step in when we need Polish-speaking volunteers, known for her dedication, wonderful attitude, and flexibility!
Elizabeth’s contributions have had a lasting impact on the patients at CommunityHealth. Always ready to step in when there’s a need, especially for Polish-speaking patients, Elizabeth brings flexibility, professionalism, and heart to everything she does. Her dedication continues to make a meaningful difference in our community.
During the 2024 Volunteer of the Year Awards, Elizabeth won the award for Clinic Volunteer of the Year- Polish Interpreter. You can watch the awards ceremony through the link below.
CommunityHealth sat down with Elizabeth to learn more about what quality health care for all means to her…
In a few sentences, tell us more about yourself and your background.
“I was born and raised in Chicago. I am currently attending Northwestern University studying Chemistry (I will be graduating from college this year!). I have been with CommunityHealth across nearly my entire undergraduate career, starting the summer before my sophomore year, and I look forward to continuing volunteering!”
Why and how did you begin volunteering with CommunityHealth?
“Over the summer, my friend told me about CommunityHealth and Polish interpreter volunteering. I then did my own research, and I was excited by the opportunity to use my bilingual language skills and learn how public health needs are addressed in such a space.
Do you remember your first day? What surprised you?
“I was very nervous during my first shift, but the kindness and warmth with which I was received by the clinic. I was surprised by how my anxiety nearly completely melted away by the time I was done, and my eagerness to pick up another shift and continue interpreting for more and more appointments. To this day I look forward to each shift.”
What is something you have learned from volunteering?
“Undoubtedly the importance of collaboration and community underpinning all the work we do here at CommunityHealth. Interpreting itself is inherently collaborative, as we help connect the patient’s needs and the physician/healthcare provider’s insight and knowledge more directly, and through volunteering, I have had an opportunity to work with and learn from people across all facets of the organization, which has taught me so much and really shaped my ways of thinking.”
What has been your biggest takeaway from CommunityHealth, and how does this impact your other life or career goals?
“We do not have to make compromises with the quality or quantity of services we provide – organizations like CommunityHealth show that high quality service and treatment can be still provided equitably and accessibly. If we feel that there is a flaw in something, we should feel empowered to make a change for the betterment of those around us. I feel this message very strongly, and it has really influenced my worldview, especially as I continue my studies and look into pursuing a career in the biomedical field.”
How has working with CommunityHealth influenced your perception of health care?
“Healthcare inequity and disparities are pervasive in Chicago and across the US, and although the ultimately solution will require many years of work and policy change, we as people, both individually and as a team, can make tangible, immediately differences.”
What advice would you give to a new volunteer with CommunityHealth?
“The first shift is always the most nerve wrecking – it is for everyone, but the people around you are so kind and supportive. Never be afraid to ask for help or questions – we are all here for you!”
Outside of volunteering with CommunityHealth, how do you like to spend your free time?
“Drawing, spending time with friends and family, and when the weather permits gardening!”
As the largest volunteer-based free health center in the nation, serving the uninsured, underserved, and undocumented, CommunityHealth is more than a free clinic but a true patient-centered medical home. Health care providers, both clinical and nonclinical, devoted to quality health care for all are encouraged to apply.