For Release: April 30, 2009
Contact:
Christine Gorey 330.344.7819/330.948.5559
cgorey@agmc.org
Lodi Community Hospital Honors Volunteers at Luncheon
Lodi Community Hospital hosted a Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon on April 22 to help celebrate National Volunteer week and recognize the many volunteers that contribute to fulfilling the hospital’s mission of improving the health and lives of its patients and community.
Last year, more than 47 Lodi Community Hospital volunteers provided 4,614 hours of service in areas such as visitor information, patient aid and representation, support services for numerous departments and staffing in "Anna's Boutique" Gift Shop, just to name a few.
The number of volunteers was up nearly 18% over the previous year, with many of those hours being dedicated to staffing "Anna's Boutique", the hospital's Auxiliary gift shop. "We have always had a wealth of volunteer opportunities available, ranging from just a few hours a month to a few hours every week and we were pleased to see our volunteer base grow even more in 2008," relates Sondra Roberts, Director of Volunteer Services. "We are proud to recognize the efforts of our volunteers, as many of our services rely on their valuable contributions and dedicated support."
More than a quarter of the entire US population volunteers through or for an organization each year. Research has shown that people who volunteer live longer and healthier lives and benefit from a natural release of endorphins that helps decrease stress and provides an increased sense of well being. Volunteering is a healthy distraction from the daily demands of life and often provides an immediate sense of appreciation from the ones you help. It is a great way to be a part of the community, meet new people, develop new interests and learn new skills. For more information on how you can join the Lodi Community Hospital family of volunteers, contact Sondra Roberts, Director of Volunteer Services at 330-948-3467.
