Thank you, volunteers!
April 11, 2011
National Volunteer Week is April 10-16
Story by Sara Boehnke
Every day, volunteers across the province demonstrate the power of giving and caring.
Alberta Health Services is proud to say “thank you” to our 15,000 registered volunteers, 1,800 auxiliary members and hundreds of community group members for their outstanding hard work and enthusiasm.
“The depth and breadth of volunteer contributions are amazing,” says Dr. Chris Eagle, Acting President & CEO, Alberta Health Services. “Volunteers truly make a difference and are an invaluable addition to our health-care team.”
Volunteers support and complement the work of professional staff and enhance the quality of care provided to those served by AHS.
“Not only do volunteers generously contribute their gift of time, they also bring commitment, dedication and a sense of caring and pride while serving our patients and clients,” says David Diamond, Senior Vice- President of Human Resources.
Below you will find a few stories about the amazing contributions made by our volunteers.
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With her sparkling painted nails and bright kerchief, Margaret Rose is one of the most colourful volunteers at Red Deer Regional Hospital Center (RDRHC). She is also one of the few with four legs. Read more… |
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If the saying “volunteers have a heart of gold” is true, then the ladies of the Ponoka Hospital and Care Centre Auxiliary are a gold mine. The dedicated group of volunteers is devoted to patient care and comfort. On June 16, 2010, the auxiliary celebrated its 60th year of existence. Read more… |
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“I am honoured and at the same time humbled to be considered part of the ER team – though the efforts of all the volunteers, we strive to make the ER department less traumatic and more comforting for all the patients and their families,” says Ken Sampson, ER volunteer & trainer. Read more… |
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At just 18 years old, Kayla Stan, a recipient of the 2010 Queen’s Golden Jubilee Citizenship Medal, is a shining example of how volunteering can build stronger communities. “Being in the greenhouse always makes me feel good,” says the second-year University of Alberta student. “I thought if patients were around plants, it could help them feel better as well.” Read more… |
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Since 1989, the Healing Arts program at the Chinook Regional Hospital in Lethbridge has been nourishing patients’ spirits. The program helps improve the patient experience through expressive arts choices and visits to patients to relieve boredom and loneliness, distract them from pain and provide stimulating conversation. Read more… |
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While spending Christmas morning in hospital won’t top the list of favourite holiday traditions for most, the morning continues to dawn merry and bright for many patients, as staff, volunteers and community partners do their best to bring a sense of holiday spirit. Read more… |
Visit our AHS Volunteer page for more information on becoming a volunteer.
