The Bonnyville Covenant Health Centre took time to thank the volunteers who have helped and guided their patients throughout the year.
“All the volunteers of the hospital have put in 5,175 hours this year,” said Wendy Campbell, volunteer coordinator at the Bonnyville Health Centre.
Earlier this month, the local hospital hosted a volunteer banquet to recognize those who have dedicated their time and energy to lending a hand.
“This is a treat for me to be here to celebrate these volunteers, because this building is full of passionate people. Their mission is faith based, good, and excellent hospital care,” expressed Catherine Sandmeyer, chairman of the community board at the Bonnyville Health Centre.
Hospital volunteers have served the community in different ways and used their talents to help others. Milestones volunteering with the health centre ranged from two years to three decades.
“I’ve been here for 30 years and I used to help bring patients to the camp. I also come here to get things ready for church services every week,” volunteer Janet Anctil noted. “It’s nice that they recognize what we're doing.”
Muriel Theroux, who has been volunteering for over a decade, said, “I enjoy doing this and I get the pleasure to see their faces. It’s really wonderful.”
Campbell said the volunteers support a number of areas, including the recreational therapy programs, spiritual care programs, and the auxiliary gift shop that supports the cancer clinic and fundraises to buy beds and other necessary equipment.
The community board arranges various activities and events to create a better and healthier environment through bus outings, exercise programs, crafts, and baking events.
This, Campbell said, helps "keep them in connection with the community."
By hosting an appreciation event for their volunteers' contributions, McGregor said they're not only keeping them motivated, but also helping them build an even stronger community.
