Meet volunteer extraordinaire: Elba Serrato Meza
Elba grew up in Mexico and moved to Arizona when she was 14. She found out about Mission of Mercy while attending an interpreter program offered by St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center.
“I knew firsthand the challenges of not speaking English and needing help,” Elba says. “I wanted to do something where I could give back and meet new people, and Mission of Mercy has helped me do that.”
For years while she volunteered, Elba was working nights and would get off at 3 a.m. but still made time to serve as a volunteer interpreter later that morning! She cites the medical staff and the patients as her inspiration.
“From the doctors and nurses to the support volunteers, Mission of Mercy’s team is very caring. They all go above and beyond. The patients, in return, they also care so much for us,” Elba says. “I know we are truly fulfilling a great need in the community. It’s rewarding to see the evolution in their conditions… to see them making strides and being able to do things like lower their blood pressure and feel better.”
When she’s not working as a newly licensed Realtor, Elba enjoys spending time with family and watching movies.
Interested in volunteering? While in-person opportunities are limited currently, we are forming an interest list for medical professionals and supportive roles at our six clinic sites and opportunities in the administrative office. Please contact Shoshana Simones, Community Engagement Manager, at ssimones@amissionofmercy.org with your interest and availability.
