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CROWN POINT, Indiana - A 100-year-old volunteer at Franciscan Health Crown Point has marked nearly half a century of service. Vivian Kelby, who celebrated her centennial on May 4, 2025, will surpass 38,000 volunteer hours with the hospital this month. Her contribution equates to over four years of continuous service.
Kelby continues to offer her time every Friday afternoon in the hospital's gift shop. Reflecting on her enduring commitment, she stated, "I wouldn't be here if I didn't enjoy it. I like to work and I like the people."
Her volunteering journey began in January 1976 at what was then St. Anthony Home in Crown Point after her father-in-law suggested she find an activity outside the home. Kelby applied her sewing skills by creating stockings for newborns born around Christmas and baby bonnets for sale in the gift shop for 37 years. Over nearly five decades, she has volunteered in various departments including information desk, Admissions Department, and Imaging Department.
In addition to feeding patients and overseeing youth volunteers who fed patients, Kelby was a member of the Junior Volunteers for over 18 years and served as a board member of the St. Anthony Medical Center Auxiliary. She maintains regular contact with former auxilians through lunch meetings which she rarely misses.
"It keeps me young," Kelby remarked about her active lifestyle. "You've got to keep moving."
Kelby is a mother of two daughters and two sons (the oldest being 80), grandmother to 14 grandchildren (the oldest is 56), great-grandmother to 40 great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandmother to nine children with two more expected soon. She resides independently near her daughters' homes in Porter County.
She cherishes spending time with fellow volunteers who have become friends and enjoys interacting with hospital visitors and staff familiar with her presence.
Franciscan Health employs nearly 200 volunteers across its four Northwest Indiana hospitals located in Crown Point, Dyer, Michigan City, and Munster. Research indicates that volunteering can alleviate stress and depression while enhancing mental and physical activity as well as overall happiness.
Justin Dougherty, Manager of Volunteer Services at Franciscan Health Crown Point praised Kelby's dedication: "Her sharp mind, quick wit and unwavering dedication remind us all of the power of purpose and service."
Encouraging others to volunteer, Kelby advised: "Just do it. You'll make friends and have a lot of fun."
Further details on volunteering opportunities are available online or by contacting volunteer services offices at individual hospital locations.
