14 Bringing health care news to your home Volunteering together It’s been said that couples who play together stay together. In the case of Bob and Ann Hamling, you could say “couples who volunteer together bring cheer together.” The Hamlings have spent a combined 39 years volunteering at Columbus Community Hospital. You’ll usually find them right when you enter the hospital — greeting guests at the main information desk. “I help people find their way around the hospital,” said Ann. “Many people are very interesting, and it makes me happy to help them.” Ann was born in St. Edward, grew up on a farm west of Genoa and graduated from Assumption Academy in Norfolk, all in Nebraska. After living in Omaha, Nebraska, briefly, she returned to Columbus and worked for an insurance company until she married Bob. In January 1999, she started volunteering at the old hospital and has worked at the information desk for 23 years. Bob was born in Norfolk and grew up on a farm near Humphrey, Nebraska. He graduated from St. Francis High School in Humphrey. Following graduation, he enlisted in the United States Army for three years before beginning at Cornhusker Public Power District. After 40 years, he retired from being a lineman at the power company and joined his wife at the desk. He has guided people at the hospital for 16 years now. “I thought it would be something I would enjoy as well,” said Bob. “I get to meet many people, which is very rewarding.” A heart for service and each other Until this last year, the couple also volunteered at St. Anthony’s Elementary School for 16 years, helping with lunches. During their years of volunteering, they have become friends with many employees who appreciate their service to the hospital. They encourage anyone thinking about volunteering to join the hospital — there are many different positions and hours to accommodate anyone. In Ann’s free time, she enjoys watching game shows, completing word puzzles, tending her flower garden and staying in touch with family through Snapchat. When not helping at the information desk, Bob takes care of his sixacre city farm, where he has a few calves. Bob and Ann feed the birds and enjoy watching the visiting cardinals, orioles and hummingbirds. They have four children, 11 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, whom they greatly enjoy. The couple will celebrate 55 years of marriage this year. Join our team To learn more about volunteer opportunities available at the hospital, visit columbushosp.org.
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