The Canowindra Health Service, comprising the Soldier’s Memorial Hospital and the Community Health Centre, benefit from the many volunteers who freely give their time and expertise to assist the patients and community members.
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At a recent Volunteer Appreciation event held at the Canowindra Community Health Centre, all volunteers were thanked and given a certificate of appreciation by the Health Service Manager, Janice Rumph.
Ms Rumph, along with Health Service staff enjoyed afternoon tea and an informal chat with the volunteers who were able to attend.
In a thank you speech, Ms Rumph talked about the definition of a volunteer as being, “a person whom gives time willingly for the common good and without financial gain”, as defined by Volunteering Australia.
She had asked staff their feelings about volunteers and some of the responses were-
- “They have a positive impact on patients and clients.”
- “They give their own time.”
- “They are passionate and committed, generous, kind, caring and happy.”
- “They offer companionship.”
- “They want to be here, they enjoy what they are doing.”
- “They become part of our family.”
- “It isn’t about themselves but what they can do for others”.
The volunteers then were given an opportunity to describe why they volunteer and what drives them to do so.
The Health Service volunteers work in many different capacities, such as the United Hospital Auxiliary, the Health Council, consumer representatives on various committees and working parties, bus and car drivers for various healthy and active lifestyle groups, in-patient visitors and those who assist in the fitness centre.
There is a need for additional volunteer drivers particularly those with a Light Rigid licence.
Ms Rumph spoke of the responsibilities associated with being a volunteer and thanked current and past volunteers to the Health Service.
The event continued with afternoon tea supplied by the hospital staff and enjoyed by all present.