Sue Ibarra

I volunteer because I can and because I know that by doing so I am doing my part in making our community a better place in which to live. Who doesn't want to live in a caring community? My volunteer service, whether it be as a driver for Home Delivered Meals or as a medical interpreter for the Downtown Clinic and Laramie  Reproductive Health, connects me with diverse residents who are so grateful for what I bring. No matter what your skills or interests, serving others in need through volunteerism brings a deep sense of pride and joy knowing that you are making a difference in the lives of others less fortunate. If you are new to the community, this is a great way to get to know your fellow citizens and the wonderful organizations that serve Albany County. If you are a seasoned resident, it is never too late to become engaged in your community.  The Downtown Clinic is the most unique healthcare environment I have ever had the pleasure of working with. With all the services it offers through its limited professional staff and responsible volunteers, our uninsured and economically challenged populations receive the most professional medical attention that any government/private donation-funded clinic could provide, from primary care, to dental care, to mental health counseling, to pharmacy, to name a few. Nearly 15 years ago, I began volunteering at the DTC at the reception desk to address the need for someone to be able to communicate with Spanish-speaking-only clients. It didn't take long for word to travel that the clinic now had someone who could understand them and who could accurately and comfortably convey their questions and concerns to the medical providers. Soon after, I began interpreting during appointments between the provider and client. My volunteer work has evolved to interpreting for medical providers with Laramie Reproductive Health, for referrals to specialist providers at Ivinson Memorial Hospital, to arranging for imaging and other services at IMH. Through this work, I have established trusting and endearing relationships with these clients and clinic staff and am honored that they have embraced me. These efforts have made a positive impact to bridge cultural gaps within our community.

Sue was nominated by Downtown Clinic and Sponsored by High Point CPAs

Every nonprofit and community should be so fortunate as to have the services of a Sue! Sue has been a Spanish Interpreter, trusted advisor, and friend to all who need the services of the Downtown Clinic (and many other nonprofit entities), and thankfully, she has not been able to retire from the DTC (even though she has tried multiple times). For nearly two decades, she has transcribed paperwork, delivered lab results, and interpreted during countless healthcare appointments. She has delivered both good news and bad news with kindness, compassion and care. Sue has routinely helped the Spanish-speaking clients at the DTC navigate Ivinson Memorial Hospital's financial and healthcare paperwork and has been an indispensable bridge between the DTC’s Spanish-speaking clients and non-Spanish speaking entities. The DTC's board of directors, staff, and volunteers cannot thank Sue enough for her expertise, care, and advocacy for all clients at the DTC, especially those who speak Spanish. Thank you, Sue, for being such an amazing friend, volunteer, and community member to all who need the DTC! And you can forget about retiring – it ain’t gonna happen.