Shortly before the COVID-19 pandemic began, Debra “Debbie” Bearman retired from her part-time job with plans to travel the world. When those plans were put on pause, she decided to spend her extra time volunteering with a worthy organization. Prior to the pandemic, Debbie was a volunteer at the Waikiki Aquarium, but when the attraction temporarily closed, that assignment ended. She then looked into other opportunities.  

Debbie determined she wouldn’t be a good volunteer with any animal organizations, as she was a “Foster Failure,” adopting both dogs she fostered for the Hawaiian Humane Society. Fortunately, she saw an advertisement for volunteers at Navian Hawaii while she was browsing a local website and decided to apply for a part-time volunteer receptionist position. She felt that helping out at the office would allow her to support the nursing staff and others in the important work they do on a daily basis. In February 2021, she began volunteering as a receptionist first at the Iwilei office and now currently at Navian Hawaii’s Kailua House.

As a receptionist, Debbie’s primary duties include answering telephone calls and greeting visitors. She also assists with special projects such as writing letters of condolence, mailing resources to help grieving families, putting together packages for various Navian Hawaii events, delivering meals to patients and their families on holidays, and representing the organization at health fairs across the island. Although her responsibilities change day to day, Debbie finds great satisfaction in all she does for the organization knowing she is helping others get through some of the most difficult times in their lives.

“Being a volunteer at Navian is very worthwhile, but you need to be able to deal with people who are at a vulnerable stage in their lives,” said Debbie. “You need to have the ability to understand this and provide them with support as needed.” 

Debbie is one of 38 volunteers at Navian Hawaii supporting its mission to reduce fear, bring hope and impact lives. Through her work as a receptionist, she is letting our patients, their families and providers know that we are here for them as soon as they enter our facilities or give us a call. We rely on the support of individuals like Debbie, who are committed to serving others in any way possible. Navian Hawaii accepts new volunteers on an ongoing basis to satisfy its ever changing needs.