This International Volunteer Day, Henry J. Austin Health Center proudly shines a spotlight on the dedicated volunteers of our Health Connections program. These passionate individuals play an essential role in connecting our patients to critical resources, from childcare to housing, transportation, employment assistance, and beyond.
What is Health Connections?
Health Connections is a program hosted by Henry J. Austin Health Center to bridge the gap between patients and the essential services they need to thrive. By helping patients navigate challenges and access resources, the program empowers them to improve their quality of life.
Meet Our Volunteers
We are honored to share the stories and motiv ations of some of the incredible individuals who make Health Connections possible.
Melvi Agolli
Started Volunteering: January 2024
Why do you volunteer?
“Many people living in the local area do not have the means, time, or energy to seek out resources. As volunteers, we play a critical role in connecting them to resources that can provide aid in a time of need.”
What’s your motivation?
“I moved to the US from Albania with my family of five when I was 14 years old. Experiencing the challenges of low-income immigrant life inspires me to help families in similar situations.”
What have you taken away?
“Volunteering as a Patient Advocate is not always straightforward, but even a simple phone call can provide crucial information. Reaching out weekly shows patients we are committed to their needs, earning their trust and providing meaningful support.”
Shria Ajay
Started Volunteering: August 2024
Why do you volunteer?
“I volunteer because I want to give back to my community.”
What’s your motivation?
“I aim to understand how professionals tackle health inequities in the real world and to do my part in giving back.”
What have you taken away?
“This opportunity has deepened my understanding of the social determinants affecting healthcare. I’ve gained a profound respect for organizations and providers working to decrease health inequities and a drive to contribute.”
Audrey Chau
Started Volunteering: October 2024
Why do you volunteer?
“I like helping patients get access to resources they need in order to take care of themselves and their families. It is incredibly rewarding when patients find these resources helpful for their daily lives!”
What’s your motivation?
“Volunteering in Trenton enables me to become more involved with the community and understand challenges that locals encounter in their daily lives.”
What have you taken away?
“Each patient has a story to tell, and it is very important to get to know who they are and create space for them to share what kind of support is most helpful.”
Mary Kate Cloonan
Started Volunteering: Fall 2023 
Why do you volunteer?
“Volunteering is one of the highlights of my week. It is so rewarding to break out of the ‘orange bubble’ and be directly involved in the wider community.”
What’s your motivation?
“Service has been a part of my life since an early age. Especially now, as a student at a privileged institution, I feel it’s important to give back to surrounding communities and ‘pay forward’ the opportunities I’ve been fortunate to receive.”
What have you taken away?
“Health Connections has been one of the most powerful experiences during my time at Princeton. Building meaningful relationships and making a tangible impact in patients’ lives leaves me continually inspired.”
Catherine Zhao
Started Volunteering: Start of 2024
Why do you volunteer?
“I think it would really be nice to advocate for patients and help them find resources that can better their lives.”
What’s your motivation?
“Passion!”
What have you taken away?
“I now better understand the community.”
Celebrating the Spirit of Service
The dedication and compassion of our Health Connections volunteers remind us of the power of community and service. On this International Volunteer Day, we thank Audrey, Catherine, Melvi, Mary Kate, Shria, and all the volunteers who help us fulfill our mission of improving the health and well-being of our patients.
Would you like to join us? Learn more about volunteering with Henry J. Austin Health Center’s Health Connections program and make a meaningful impact in your community.
