At Aultman, our volunteers are just one of the many groups that have helped us to lead our community to improved health. Today, we'd like to introduce you to one of our dedicated volunteers - Joe Helaney. 

Where do you live (city/area)?

I grew up in the city of Canton but have lived in Jackson Township for the last 12 years.

When did you begin volunteering at Aultman Health Foundation?

I have volunteered at Aultman for four years.

In what department do you volunteer?

When I first became a volunteer, I worked for a short time in Inpatient Pharmacy and Valet. Since then, I have been a greeter in the main lobby. I welcome guests and often escort patients to the Cancer Center, Infusion Therapy or the heart units.

How did you decide to be a volunteer?

After I retired from business in the auto care industry, I wanted to find a way to keep busy and give back to my community. I always say that if your work and your life have been good to you, make it better for someone else.

What do you like best about volunteering?

The people. I enjoy seeing the people from my past – high school, neighborhoods and business. I also have formed many relationships with patients and visitors. When I’m transporting patients, I enjoy helping them find their way, and I try to lift their spirits. They are often down in the dumps because of what they are getting ready to face. Sometimes patients will say, “I wish I was in your shape” or “If I was in your shape, I would like to volunteer.” That’s when I say, “I’ve been there. I’ve had two open-heart surgeries. Don’t give up on yourself.”

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

I enjoy yardwork and bus trips. I also organize the annual All-City Night Reunion. This was something I started in 2014 to bring together alumni from the four original Canton City Schools – Lehman, Lincoln, McKinley and Timken. We usually have about 200 graduates attend.

Tell us about your loved ones.

I am married to my wife, Becky. She is a volunteer in The Shoppes. Between the two of us, we have eight children, 19 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

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

Most people would say I’m stoic, but I love people. That’s the difference between those who know of me and those who really know me. A friend once said, “If you know Joe for five minutes, you don’t know him.”