In lieu of National Volunteer Week, representatives from the Five Hills Health Region (FHHR) have been travelling around bringing recognition to the volunteers throughout the region.
But with over 31,000 hours of volunteer service, they have a lot to do.
“It seems weak just to say a mere thank you to them,” said Leanne Keen, manager of volunteer services. “Our health region is absolutely blessed with the amount of kindness and giving that we have in our community.”
Keen said many of their programs are run entirely by volunteers, including the “Cardiaction” program, the gift shop, and Meals on Wheels.
“That’s the difference of someone being able to stay in their home… and that is so important to a lot of people,” said Keen, speaking of those volunteers who deliver meals to people who can’t cook for themselves. “It seems like a little thing. But when you start thinking about the bigger picture, its huge.”
But Keen said volunteers do more than just enhance the patient experience. They raise money for the health foundation as well.
For more on this story, read an upcoming edition of the Times-Herald.
