WMC honors volunteers at annual appreciation celebration

Posted: April 22, 2019

Winneshiek Medical Center honored nearly 110 active volunteers, including members of the Auxiliary Board, Foundation Board and Board of Trustees at the Volunteers: You “ARRRR” a Treasure appreciation event held at Nob Hill in April.

Professional inspiration and leadership speaker, Patty Hendrickson of La Crosse, Wisconsin, spoke to the group. She highlighted the different gifts each person brings to the table, and encouraged them to embrace the talents of each person. Patty provided a useful tip to help people feel welcome: to “act like a crescent roll, instead of a bagel,” meaning that if we physically stand in enclosed, circular groups, new people may feel awkward or unwelcome; conversely, if we stand with friends in a crescent shape, we extend an invitation to others.

At the event, thirteen volunteers were recognized for service milestones:

• 100 Hours: Karen Bergan, Sherry Bouska, Deb Tekippe
• 500 Hours: Jolyn Forman, Carol Gaard, Barb Jensen, Jim Sims, Vicki Steil
• 1,000 Hours: Mary Lou Snitker
• 1,500 Hours: Glendalu Wuest
• 2,000 Hours: Sharon Huber, Mary Jane Maly
• 3,500 Hours: Jerrine Jacobsen

Karla Bakken, volunteer coordinator at WMC said to the group, “Words cannot adequately express the gratitude that I, and everyone at WMC, wish to convey. Please know that your volunteerism is recognized, appreciated, valued and cherished. We are proud you have chosen to be one of us. Our patients, providers and staff all reap the benefits of you volunteering your time and making a difference.”

Winneshiek Medical Center volunteers are present in many areas, including the information desk, hospice, Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP), Auxiliary Gift Shop, and at special events. Additionally, volunteers provide hand-crafted items for patients, help with mailings, share their gardening talents and provide for other needs, as requested.

To learn more about volunteer opportunities call the Winneshiek Medical Center Volunteer Services department at 563-387-3036.