Thank You Volunteers Everywhere!

​It was such an honour to conduct a workshop at the HAAO (Hospital Auxiliary Association of Ontario) Conference in Toronto. Geordie and I met so many fabulous, caring, enthusiastic men and women who were there to learn and be the best volunteers that they could be.
 
I had the opportunity to sit with Dorothy Friske, HAAO Vice President (don’t you just love her groovy hair!),
and asked her what being a member of the hospital auxiliary meant to her. She shared that she had been a volunteer for 43 years!! It is about giving back to the hospital and making things comfortable for the patients and the long-term residents.  She adds:
 
Don’t ever think there is nothing you can do, because there is.  It might be as simple as going in to talk
to somebody who may not have many visitors (or any!), working at the gift shop, or baking for
the bake sale.  And more volunteers are always needed everywhere!!
 
I have worked in many hospitals over the years and I know from experience that, especially in
chemotherapy, we could not function without our volunteers. I am so grateful and just love these selfless people. Where many others shy away from hospitals, the sick and the lonely, these outstanding
volunteers are willingly giving of their time and of their hearts.
 
Thank you from the bottom of my heart, to every volunteer everywhere,
for being willing to show up for others.
You make the difference.
 
Has a hospital auxiliary volunteer impacted your life?
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Are you a volunteer?

We would love to hear your story!