It’s National Volunteer Appreciation Week and Niagara Health System is shouting out thanks to the 1,200 volunteers who support our patients and families across the region.
Volunteers help provide quality patient-centered care in a wide range of departments, including Cardiac Rehab, Clinical Nutrition, Critical Care, Emergency Department, Medical Imaging, Mental Health, Outpatient Clinics, Palliative Care, Recreation, Religious and Spiritual Care, Surgical Services and the Walker Family Cancer Center. Volunteers also support the important work of OneFoundation for Niagara Health System and Auxiliaries by raising funds for equipment through Gift Shops, Lottery Ticket Sales and other resource-generating ventures.
“Volunteers contribute in many ways – from comfort measures at the bedside, to fundraising for new equipment, to the board of directors – we’re all focused on creating a great experience for patients and their families,” says Debbie Anderson, Coordinator Volunteer Resources for NHS.
Niagara is proud and appreciative for a long history of hospital volunteerism. The St. Catharines Hospital Auxiliary is celebrating 150 years of service in 2015. The first volunteers were sharing their time at the hospital when people were still travelling by horse and buggy.
“Our hospital volunteers contribute to a great experience for patients and their loved ones,” says Andrea McCollum, Coordinator Volunteer Resources. “They are engaged in meaningful, challenging work, and together have a significant and positive impact on local healthcare. They make a difference.”
Making a difference seems to make NHS volunteers happy. In a recent satisfaction survey, 98% said they would recommend volunteering at the NHS to their family and friends. To learn more about the NHS volunteer program go to: www.niagarahealth.on.ca/en/volunteer-resources
Members of the media are invited to attend either NHS Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon:
Wednesday, April 15th, 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. at Club Roma 125 Vansickle Road, St. Catharines
Thursday, April 16th, 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. at Rolling Meadows Golf 12741 Montrose Rd, Niagara Falls
Media contact:
Steven Gallagher, Communications Specialist, 905-378-4647 x43879 Steven.Gallagher@niagarahealth.on.ca
