The week of April 16 through April 22 is a time set aside to honor the many volunteers who impact all our lives. “We are fortunate that here at Greene County Medical Center, the list of honorees is extensive, encompassing the Medical Center and Foundation boards, our Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP), Auxiliary and Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) members,” said Greene County Medical Center Foundation director Nancy Houska.
On Monday, April 3, the Greene County Medical Center auxiliary held their monthly meeting, which included a surprise early celebration. Notes of appreciation were distributed and read and the attendees were presented with a plant. The group was also recognized for their many donations of time and financial support.
“Over the past 61 years, the auxiliary has raised more than $600,000 for the medical center, and that number continues to climb” said Houska. “At our most recent meeting, we commemorated the gift of a weight machine and a rowing machine to the pulmonary/cardiac rehabilitation department. This is just one facet of what these 72 active and 35 lifetime members do for our staff and our patients. They are here nearly every day, working in the Gift Garden, helping answer phones or file documents, decorating and spending time with our Extended Care patients.”
The auxiliary also provides free coffee for guests and employees in the main cafeteria, fills the pop machines throughout Greene County Medical Center and offers scholarships to local students pursuing a career in a healthcare-related field. “It is an opportunity to provide some sunshine,” says auxiliary volunteer Joyce Kurth. “Being an auxiliary member is very fulfilling.” For more information on becoming an auxiliary member, log on to gcmchealth.com/foundation or call 515-386-0108.
Greene County Medical Center also recognized volunteer SHIIP counselor Mary Tighe, who has been providing assistance since 2012. SHIIP counselors help Medicare beneficiaries, their caregivers or representatives with questions and concerns related to Medicare and health insurances. They also advocate on behalf of beneficiaries, educate individual beneficiaries on Medicare-related issues and work to promote SHIIP throughout the community.
Persons interested in becoming a SHIIP volunteer at Greene County Medical Center can contact Tighe at billmary71@gmail.com, call SHIIP at 1-800-351-4664 or email SHIIP@iid.iowa.gov.
“Greene County public health and Greene County Medical Center send out a heartfelt thank you to all of the members of the Greene County RSVP 55+ Volunteer Program. These volunteers use their time, interests, talents, knowledge and experience in a variety of ways to assist their communities.
“As we move through this celebratory week and beyond, please consider ways you can show your gratitude to those who give so much back to our communities in so many different ways,” Houska said.
