Volunteerism grows with Luther Midelfort expansion
Contact: Paul Meznarich, 715-838-5805, meznarich.paul@mayo.edu
EAU CLAIRE, Wis. — Just as the physical infrastructure of Luther Midelfort has grown to meet the healthcare needs of the community, community volunteers have responded similarly. In 2010, an additional 120 volunteers joined Luther Midelfort, helping the organization achieve a record 56,850 hours of annual volunteer service — an 8,580 hour increase from 2009.
The Independent Sector, a consortium of charities, foundations and corporate giving programs, places the value of volunteer services at $21.36 an hour, which puts the Luther Midelfort volunteers’ contributions at more than $1.2 million.
“The community support we’ve received has been incredible,” said Vicky Zehms, director of Luther Midelfort Volunteer Services. “They take pride in the new building, they take pride in our organization and they take pride in what this means for the community.”
Volunteers perform critical roles in assisting patients, their families and staff. They serve as greeters providing patient room information and directions, as transporters of patients and patient items, and as surgery and Critical Care waiting room attendants. They make prayer shawls, blankets, sweaters and hats typically given to newborn babies and cancer patients. They work in the hospital gift shop and perform clerical duties for staff.
“They often are the public’s first interaction with Luther Midelfort, and we’re grateful for their help, kindness and positive attitudes,” Zehms said.
Luther Midelfort will honor its volunteers during National Volunteer Week April 10 through 16 with an open house dessert and hors d’oeuvres buffet and an appreciation gift.
To learn more about volunteer opportunities at Luther Midelfort, contact Volunteer Services at 715-838-3262, or visit the “About Us” page at www.luthermidelfort.org and click on “Volunteer Opportunities.”
