News Release
NHS gives thanks to more than 1,100 volunteers
- Date of Issue: Monday, August 20, 2007
- Français
Niagara, ON - Like just about everything else, volunteering at the Niagara Health System (NHS) has changed over the years. While the majority of the more than 1,100 volunteers are still retired seniors, a great number of new volunteers are bringing unique and specific non-traditional skills to the hospital setting. They want to be clowns, give art lessons and provide meditation therapies and other direct support to patients young and old.
What hasn't changed is the NHS's reliance on volunteers of all kinds, who give countless hours of their time to ensure the highest quality care for patients through their hard work, compassion and dedication. The services and programs they provide are an invaluable support that complements the work of NHS staff.
On Wednesday, August 22, 2007, the NHS will hold its seventh annual appreciation barbecue to recognize the contributions its more than 1,100 volunteers make as valued members of its health-care team.
The appreciation barbecue organized by NHS Volunteer Resources staff will run from 11:30 a.m. until 2 p.m. at Queenston Heights Park in Niagara-on-the-Lake and will include food and entertainment.
Volunteer Resources is grateful to the many community donors who make this special event possible. This year's major sponsor is Aramark. Special thanks also to donors Stamford Centre Volunteer Fireman's Association, DanNel Coach Lines Limited and the Niagara Parks Commission.
NHS volunteers are a diverse group, of all ages and coming from all walks of life. They share their skills, abilities, experience and talent in many meaningful ways. The NHS's volunteers enhance care to patients and their loved ones in many ways, including operating gift shops and library carts, giving comfort and support to patients in many areas of the hospitals, providing visitors with directions, and sharing computer expertise. Auxiliary members, board members and standing committee members are all volunteers as well. Through their service, NHS volunteers learn new skills, make new friends, explore career options, network, and remain actively engaged in the community during the golden years of retirement.
Volunteer Resources staff members are always looking for new volunteers of all kinds to provide services and help run programs that match the needs of the hospital and its patients. For more information on becoming a volunteer, please call 905-378-4647 and ask for the Volunteer Resources department at your local community hospital.