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STUART — Every little bit helps, whether it’s examining a patient or helping with paper work. Volunteers in Medicine Clinic in Stuart consists of more than 100 volunteers. Some don’t have medical experience but still have the desire to help. This is why Jim and Katy Schmidt started volunteering.

Two people who wanted to serve their community. Katy started as a greeter and then she began scanning medical records. Two months later, Jim decided to come on board. Jim works with the development office, maintaining the donor database. The two spend four hours each on Wednesday mornings at VIM. They also help with VIM’s annual gala and golf event. They’ve been volunteering for more than two years and they love every second of it.

“It’s a feeling of accomplishment, being able to contribute,” said Jim. “It’s amazing how thankful people are for the amount of time we volunteer. Four hours is not a lot of time, but we spend the time to help them to be able to do their job.”

They describe the atmosphere as friendly and welcoming. They’re comfortable working where people are helpful and are able to answer any questions a volunteer may have.

“The staff is really nice to the patients and they’re appreciative. Some of the patients have been coming here a long time and they’re treated better here than a regular doctor’s office,” said Katy.

The two have been married for 46 years. They enjoy spending time with their grandchildren whenever they’re not volunteering. Katy also likes to paint on her free time and Jim enjoys playing golf with his friends.

The VIM Clinic in Stuart provides free health care for uninsured Martin County residents who qualify. For more information, call 772-463-4128, or visit online at vimclinic.net.