Interlake-Eastern Health is recognizing the efforts of 368 volunteers this National Volunteer Appreciation Week, celebrated from April 27 to May 3.
With the theme “Volunteers Make Waves,” the regional health authority is shining a light on the individuals who support health facilities and programs across the region.
“Each of our volunteers contributes to the health care system in their own way,” said Interlake-Eastern RHA CEO Marion Ellis. “People who donate their time, energy and personal resources to help others are inspiring. Volunteers make communities stronger and healthier through the connections they make and the people they help. Together, volunteers generate waves of positive change and we are grateful for all that they do.”
Board chair Michele Polinuk said health care offers many meaningful ways to make a difference in the lives of others.
“If you or someone you know is looking to make a difference in the community and be of help to patients, residents and staff members, we have many different opportunities available. We thank and applaud each volunteer for their service throughout the year,” she said.
Volunteer opportunities are available in the recreation, palliative care and spiritual care programs, with roles that include friendly visiting, reading, crafts, assisting with meals and transportation, and more. Several health facilities and community partners, such as seniors resource councils, also have specific volunteer openings.
The palliative care program is currently seeking volunteers for Camp Stepping Stones, an annual grief camp for children held at Camp Arnes. This year’s camp runs from May 30 to June 1. Those interested in volunteering can contact Barb Ramsay, Interlake-Eastern RHA’s volunteer coordinator, at bramsay@ierha.ca or 1-855-494-7369.
The spiritual care program is also hosting its “Spirit of Caring” training course on Wednesdays from April 30 to June 25, from 12:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. Completion of the training allows individuals to volunteer in spiritual health care. To register, contact Ferdinand Funk, regional spiritual health services coordinator, at 204-461-3414 or ffunk@ierha.ca by April 25.
For more information on how to get involved, visit www.ierha.ca and click on About Us > Community Involvement > Volunteer Opportunities.
