AHS hosts recognition events for National Volunteer Week

SOUTH ZONE — Alberta Health Services (AHS) is celebrating volunteers for the vital role they play in the support of patients, residents, families and staff.

During National Volunteer Week, which runs April 12-18, all facilities in AHS South Zone will host volunteer recognition events, including the awarding of long-service pins. This year, volunteer Reeva Wilde will receive her 50-year pin to commemorate her contributions at the Cardston Health Centre.

Last year, 1,700 AHS volunteers contributed more than 114,021 hours to assist health departments and communities throughout southern Alberta.

Volunteers help in many ways, as they:

• Entertain patients, residents and families through music, pet visits, games and outings.
• Serve as members of local auxiliaries, foundations and associations to provide much-needed funding for programs and services.
• Support staff and patients in clinical areas, such as laboratories, diagnostic imaging, nursing units and pre-op assessment.
• Support staff and clients in home care, public health and other community services.
• Assist with general duties, such as cleaning toys, helping with meals, photocopying, folding linens, collecting wheelchairs and providing spiritual care.

Please contact a Volunteer Resources co-ordinator at a health care facility in your community if you’re interested in becoming a volunteer, or register online at: http://www.albertahealthservices.ca/10841.asp.

National Volunteer Week began in 1943 to focus attention on the home-front contributions of women during the Second World War. By the late 1960s, the week had evolved to include all community volunteers. Today, it’s Canada's largest celebration in honour of volunteers.

Alberta Health Services is the provincial health authority responsible for planning and delivering health supports and services for more than four million adults and children living in Alberta. Its mission is to provide a patient-focused, quality health system that is accessible and sustainable for all Albertans.

• News release

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