At Aultman, our volunteers are just one of the many groups that have helped us to lead our community to improved health over the last 125 years. Today, we'd like to introduce you to one of our dedicated volunteers – Dennis Richards. 

Where do you live (city/area)?

Growing up, I lived in North Canton and attended Oakwood High School. For the past 25 years, I have called Paris my home. Paris, Ohio, that is.

When did you begin volunteering at Aultman Health Foundation?

In 2015, I retired from Whitaker Engineering after 44 years of service. I began volunteering at Aultman shortly after.

In what department do you volunteer?

After volunteering in Radiology for a short time, I began working in the Pharmacy. I volunteer there every Wednesday and Thursday morning. I’m responsible for delivering IV bags to Infusion, sending drugs to the floors via the tube system and anything else that I am asked to do.

How did you decide to be a volunteer?

I am a retired “volunteer” Louisville EMT. I have always had a special interest in the medical field, so it seemed like a perfect fit for me.

What do you like best about volunteering?

After retirement, I wanted to feel useful. When I am volunteering, I know that what I do is making a difference in the Pharmacy Department. The people I interact with make me feel appreciated.

What are some of your hobbies/interests outside of volunteering?

The older I get, the more I appreciate the simple life. I enjoy taking my dog on walks in the woods, cutting firewood to heat our house and staying out of my wife's way. 

Tell us about your loved ones.

Between my wife and I, we have four children and 12 grandkids. We have a dog and a couple of cats – I think it’s actually three cats right now. I can’t keep track. Strays show up, we feed them and they never leave.

Tell us something interesting about yourself that many of your friends may not know. 

I think that most people may find me annoying because I’m a deep thinker and extremely introverted – so much so, that I can’t believe I agreed to do this interview. But, at the same time, I enjoy people. Volunteering gives me just the right amount of social interaction throughout my week.