Volunteer Spotlight: Maud Iturregui, Spanish Medical Interpreter

Photo Courtesy of Maud Iturregui

Every month we spotlight a volunteer making an impact at Culmore Clinic. In honor of National Translators Day, we are featuring Maud Iturregui, one of our hardworking Spanish language Medical Interpreters. Maud came to Culmore Clinic about two years ago and we’re so glad she did. Thanks to Maud and our nearly twenty other interpreters, our majority Spanish speaking patients receive the culturally-sensitive and patient-forward care they deserve. We sat down with Maud to learn more about why she loves volunteering with us and what she does when she’s not changing lives inside The Clinic.  

Can you tell us more about why you decided to volunteer?

Inspiring stories about working with Culmore Clnic’s patients and providers convinced me to sign up. I am grateful for the opportunity! 

What's your favorite thing about volunteering with Culmore Clinic?

The patients are so kind and grateful for our services, and the medical providers and staff are such interesting and dedicated people. Additionally, I never fail to leave my shift feeling like I learned something new from someone, which is a true gift!

How do you spend your time when you’re not volunteering at Culmore Clinic?

While being mostly at home raising our two kids, I have been a substitute teacher as well as a freelance translator and interpreter. I have also participated in many volunteer projects including my latest activities at Make-A-Wish Mid-Atlantic as a Wish Granter and Development Office Volunteer. Currently, I am also caring for my 96 year old Dad. 

As it is National Translator Day on September 30, can you speak to the importance of your trade and what you love most about it?

I love being able to bridge the language gap for those that have not been able to learn English, mostly due to challenging life circumstances and busy jobs and family life.

Culmore clinic is extremely grateful and blessed for Maud and all our volunteer interpreters. Having interpreters available especially in-person adds a personal touch to patients' visits. If you are fluent in Spanish, Arabic, or Vietnamese, and would like to consider volunteering, please contact our Volunteer Coordinator at JokabethR@culmoreclinic.org.