(SASKATOON) April 11, 2005 - The late Albert Schweitzer, physician, humanitarian, and Nobel Peace Prize winner summed it up beautifully – "You must give some time to your fellow men. Even if it’s a little thing, do something for others – something for which you get no pay but the privilege of doing it."
There are 8,993 Volunteers and Spiritual Caregivers throughout the Saskatoon Health Region who live these words.
Volunteers and Spiritual Caregivers play a tremendous role in the provision of health care. From the children as young as 3 years of age who take part in daycare visitations at long term care facilities, and daycares who help deliver meals on wheels, to youth volunteers, university and college students, professionals and retirees who provide a vast array of services.
To celebrate the remarkable contribution made each day by these giving individuals, Saskatoon Health Region hosted a Volunteer Appreciation Gala, Monday evening, at the Saskatoon Inn. Volunteers from across the Region attended the gala reception which included a Chocolate Buffet and entertainment by Brad Johner.
"Time is a precious gift," said Darlene Eberle, Chair, Saskatoon Regional Health Authority, speaking to the Volunteers and Spiritual Caregivers at the Gala. "You are giving of your time and of yourself, and these gifts make such a difference in so many lives."
Saskatoon Health Region owned and operated facilities and services have 3,377 volunteers in Saskatoon, affiliated agencies have 1,035 volunteers, with another 4,581 volunteers residing in rural communities.
The volunteers and spiritual care givers contribute in a wide variety of areas including:
- Spiritual Caregiving
- Palliative Care
- Library
- Friendly visiting
- Resident accompaniment
- Transportation
- Recreation programs
- Information desk
- Medical Appointments and
- Shopping and errands
"What we’re doing at the Recognition Gala, is remembering and celebrating," says Joy Adams, Director of Volunteer Services and Spiritual Care for Saskatoon Health Region. "We’re remembering and celebrating the volunteers – who they are and what they do, - knowing that, 'the reward, the real grace of conscious service is the opportunity not only to help relieve suffering, but to grow in wisdom, experience, greater unity, and have a good time while we’re doing it.'"
For more information about Saskatoon Health Region’s volunteer program, contact Joy Adams, Director, Volunteer Services and Spiritual Care, at (306) 655-8350.
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For more information contact:
Leanne Nyirfa
Corporate and Public Affairs
Saskatoon Health Region
(306) 655-3386
Saskatoon Health Region
"Healthiest people, healthiest communities, exceptional service."
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