(Atlantic, Iowa) — Officials with Cass Health in Atlantic have announced Registered Nurse Michele Williams, is the newest recipient of the Cass Health Spirit of Volunteerism Award. Williams began working at Cass Health in July 1997, and many patients know her for her work in obstetrics and the emergency department.

Williams was nominated specifically for her volunteer work for the Massena ambulance. Her nominator wrote: “Michele Williams volunteers for her hometown emergency ambulance services in Massena and even though she is a registered nurse, she is also a registered advanced emergency medical technician. She has been doing this for about 7 years. She took over managing the ambulance, making sure the ambulance service adheres to regulations for the emergency services which includes having the medications they need when responding to emergencies and complying with those rules. EMS volunteers have to be ready to go at any time and are often called on at nights, weekends, during family get-togethers, and holidays. We don’t appreciate them enough and only think about them if and when we need them. I feel privileged to know that if I need to call 911 for help, that Michele may be in that ambulance that comes to help me or my family.”

Photos courtesy CCHS

With her own family in attendance, Williams was surprised at work with this award. “My husband kept a huge secret! I was very surprised when I won this award! I was also honored. It is nice to be recognized. There are a lot of behind-the-scenes things that people don’t see, and it makes me feel good to know that it matters,” said Williams.

Williams commented that she does it because she likes to help people. “I know the people in Massena and Cumberland and want to make sure if they are sick or hurt someone will be there to help them,” she said. As part of the Spirit of Volunteerism Award, the winner receives a $250 check to donate to the non-profit organization of their choosing. “I chose the Cass County Fair because there are a lot of young people in the surrounding communities that participate. I know things are getting expensive and we need to help keep our fair free so everyone can come out and enjoy it,” Williams said.