UAMS Connections
Spotlight on Joyce Peck; it is better to give than to receive
What does the UAMS Medical Center Auxiliary, a former pilot and a Methodist have in common? They are all part of what makes Joyce Peck such a dynamic person.
Peck, a member of the UAMS Medical Center Auxiliary and the Chancellor’s Circle, is a shining example of a dream volunteer and supporter.
In 1967, Joyce and her late husband, Cliff, moved to Little Rock to open a Chevrolet dealership.
Later that year, a good friend, Helen Scott, encouraged Joyce to volunteer at UAMS to fill her time while the dealership was under construction. Joyce soon bonded with UAMS even though her initial time as a volunteer only lasted a few months.
“I’ve just always felt close to UAMS. I tell people all of the time, UAMS has the best doctors around. You don’t have to go out of state.”
After retiring, Joyce joined the UAMS Medical Center Auxiliary and now serves on its board. Today she can be seen wearing one of those elusive red scarves worn by the Red Scarf Ambassadors, helping out at special events like the new hospital dedication and patient move. She also volunteers regularly in the UAMS gift shop.
“She is a tremendous asset to UAMS,” said Gloria Wright, director of Volunteer and Auxiliary Services. “She’s a hard worker, she’s energetic and she’s real. She’s always asking what she can do next.”
Volunteers like Joyce don’t punch a time clock or expect a paycheck. They’re not even looking for a pat on the back. They donate their time because it’s the right thing to do.
“She’s the last person to brag or bring attention to herself,” commented Elizabeth Fabrega, volunteer coordinator. “She doesn’t want the recognition. It’s just who she is.”
Not only is she a hands-on volunteer, she’s also a philanthropic supporter.
“There are so many places in the Med Center that need money,” said Joyce. “I can’t tell you how many opportunities there are to give money, time and just to be here.”
“I really believe that the more you give, the more you receive,” added Joyce.
Research shows that she’s not alone, according to an Independent Sector study, having volunteered with an organization is cited overwhelmingly as an important reason for contributing to that organization.
“Joyce generously gives of her financial resources and time in support of UAMS,” said John Blohm, vice chancellor of Development and Alumni Affairs. “UAMS is honored to have such a dynamic individual working on our behalf.”
One example of Joyce’s generosity is visible in the ICU waiting room of the new hospital. Because of her family's gratitude for the outstanding healthcare received at UAMS, the new waiting room was recently named in loving memory of her husband Cliff.
A tireless and deeply caring person, Joyce supports many other local organizations. She is a member of the Little Rock Departmental Club, and P.E.O. (Philanthropic Educational Organization) and she serves on the Methodist Foundation Board.
“I prefer not to be recognized for my gifts or volunteer efforts,” says Peck. “In fact I’d prefer that people just say hello to me in the hallway and leave it at that.”
Interested in Giving?
Making a gift to UAMS is a meaningful way to support our outstanding range of teaching, clinical, research and community-service initiatives.
There are several ways to support UAMS. Visit our Web site to learn more about current funding needs.
Online Giving is a quick and easy way to give to UAMS and the impact is instantaneous. Your gift can support an area of greatest need or you can choose to designate your gift to a special area of interest.
What is the Chancellor’s Circle?
The Chancellor’s Circle is a giving program with two specific goals: providing unrestricted funds for UAMS and increasing public awareness of the institution. Membership in the Chancellor’s Circle is open to all friends of UAMS, including individuals, corporations and foundations.
Contact the Development and Alumni Affairs office at 501-686-8200 or giving@uams.edu with questions or to learn more about joining the Chancellor’s Circle and giving opportunities at UAMS.
Are you a UAMS Supporter?
Are you a UAMS supporter like Joyce? Tell us your story. We’re listening. Send an email to giving@uams.edu or call the Development and Alumni Affairs office at 501-686-8200.
Interested In Volunteering?
The Volunteer Services team places volunteers into the best opportunity for them and UAMS. An individual’s talents, hobbies and interests play a big role in determining where they are placed.
“We have volunteers who scrapbook with patients and others that teach aquatic dancing,” said Wright. “The opportunities are endless.”
Visit www.uams.edu/volunteer to learn about volunteer opportunities at UAMS or Contact Elizabeth Fabrega at 501-686-5657 or emfabrega@uams.edu.
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