To the Editor:
Throughout Canada and the USA, National Volunteer Week (April 6th to 12th this year) is a time to recognize and encourage those who have sought out ways to be fully engaged in their communities as volunteers. We can be inspired by them and their stories, and applaud the difference they make every day.
People are often surprised when they hear that the Sunrise Health Region has almost as many registered volunteers as staff. In 2013, health care volunteers provided 4600 hours of service throughout the region! Volunteer Resources is very proud of the excellence demonstrated in the many roles our volunteers play.
Whether they are rocking babies or transporting clients to medical appointments, welcoming patients or delivering Meals on Wheels, or making donated magazines available to patients in hospitals, volunteers make a difference - every day - in the lives of those we serve.
Volunteer Appreciation Week is a formal reminder to do what we should be doing all year long - saying "Thank You" to those who serve us and our workplaces and communities - for a different motivation than a paycheque. Volunteers are an important part of the team in many organizations and they will appreciate being recognized.
Suzette Szumutku, Director Volunteer Resources, Sunrise Health Region.
