“Each moment I dedicate to volunteering at Vail Health fills me with a sense of purpose and joy, knowing I’m contributing positively to the community,” Jill says.
Jill Mertens believes donating her time is an enriching way to give back and positively impact other people’s lives. She volunteers with the Vail Health Volunteer Corps in The Borgen Family Emergency Department and Trauma Center (ED) and the Soul Wagon—a mobile comfort cart that brings smiles and support to staff and patients.
Transforming Gratitude into Action
Jill’s journey alongside her husband, Dave, has been influenced by personal experiences with health care. When their son underwent treatment for an autoimmune disorder in Vail Health’s ED three years ago, they were impressed by the calm demeanor of the clinical team providing life-saving care. This health emergency and the couple’s experiences receiving care at Vail Health inspired Jill to give back.
“I had been thinking about where to volunteer in the valley. Vail Health is such a good place — everyone is so caring and professional. I have enjoyed every minute with the Volunteer Corps,” she says.
One Shared Mission: Elevating Health Care
Originally from the Midwest, Jill and Dave’s careers led them to Atlanta, where they met in an aerobics class. They married and started a family. After Dave secured a job in Denver, the Mertens purchased a second home in East Vail, where they enjoyed spending time on the weekends.
When Dave was relocated to Oregon, the couple got involved in giving back to health care. Jill serves on the Randall Children’s Hospital Board of Trustees, while Dave volunteers his financial expertise to the hospital’s parent organization.
The Mertens also give back through philanthropy. They recently generously supported Vail Health’s Eagle Valley Behavioral Health’s area of greatest need and the Volunteer Corps Story Display. This display, set to be unveiled this summer, will commemorate the Volunteer Corps’ 45th anniversary of impactful community service.
The couple enjoys cycling, exploring the scenic landscapes of the Vail Valley, and visiting their children and grandchildren in Denver. But it’s through volunteering and supporting health care, which she feels is critical for a growing mountain community, where Jill feels she makes the most difference.
“You get as much out of volunteering as you give. Vail Health is a wonderful place to bring your time and talent.”Jill Mertens