A Shared Milestone: Volunteer Paul Goddard Shares His Story

On July 16, 2026, Phelps Health volunteer Paul Goddard turned 75—just months after the health system he has served for more than 18 years celebrated its 75th anniversary.

For the St. James resident, the shared milestone is a meaningful reminder of the people, moments and memories that have shaped his volunteer journey. 

“It’s kind of neat,” Paul said. “Knowing that I’m turning 75 the same year as the Hospital where I volunteer makes me feel an even stronger connection.”

Before becoming a volunteer, Paul spent 17 years in ministry and later served as a law enforcement chaplain for 15 years, supporting emergency services in the St. James community. His lifelong commitment to serving others made volunteering a natural next step after retirement.

After his first wife passed away, Paul wanted to stay active and connected to his community.

“I didn’t want to just sit around the house and twiddle my thumbs, watch TV,” Paul said. "Being around people and involved in the community just seemed like a natural fit."

Paul began volunteering at Phelps Health in February 2008 and quickly became a familiar face throughout the health system. Over the years, he has volunteered in several areas, including the Medical Office Building, Delbert Day Cancer Institute, Main Registration and Surgical Services.

His primary volunteer role has been in the Medical Office Building, where he helps patients and visitors navigate the campus. If someone needs a little extra assistance getting to an appointment, Paul is often one of the first friendly faces they meet.

“I love being around the people and being able to help,” Paul said. “I guess I’m a bit partial to the seniors. Seeing people who aren't able to get where they're going because of physical conditions or unfamiliarity with the facilities—and being able to help them—it feels good."

After 40 years in the community and nearly two decades as a volunteer, Paul has watched Phelps Health grow.

He remembers expansions to the Cafeteria and Emergency Department, along with the addition of the North Tower, Medical Office Building and Delbert Day Cancer Institute. 

“Probably the biggest change is seeing the Hospital’s expansion,” Paul said. “But more important than the increase in size is seeing how we’ve added and expanded various departments.”

Paul has seen firsthand how these advancements have helped bring more care options closer to home, including expanded cancer care and heart services.

“It’s nice seeing our health system have so much to offer,” he said. “I think some people think we’re a small-town hospital—but we’re so much more than that.”

For Paul, volunteering is about more than helping people find their way. It has been about building connections with patients, visitors and staff.

“I enjoy meeting more people and getting to know them, instead of being isolated,” he said. “The whole thing’s been a pleasure.”

Paul encourages others who are considering volunteering to think about the difference they can make for patients and families.

“They’re not just walking into a huge hospital and wondering, ‘Where do I go from here?’” he said. “They actually have someone who can help them get where they’re going and help them understand how things are laid out.”

As Phelps Health celebrates 75 years of caring for the community, volunteers like Paul represent the compassion and dedication that have helped shape the health system’s story.

For Paul, volunteering has enriched his life in countless ways.

“It adds to my life,” he said. “It’s a very enjoyable and life-changing experience.”