05/08/2026
CCMH Celebrates Auxiliary Volunteers in Honor of National Volunteer Week
National Volunteer Week is observed annually during April and this year it was observed from April 19-25. This week-long celebration is about placing a spotlight on inspiring figures whose compassion and generosity through volunteering are bettering the community and our world in general.
In celebration, Carroll County Memorial Hospital held their annual volunteer appreciation event on Thursday, April 23, where they recognized the service of the Auxiliary volunteers. This year’s theme was “Lights, Camera, Compassion in Action,” complete with Hollywood-style décor.
“We are so fortunate to have a growing group of community-minded, compassionate individuals who take pride in their role here at CCMH,” said Kate Bonderer, CCMH Director of Community Relations and Auxiliary Liaison. “I always love this time of year, because I get to brag on all the creativity, hard work and care our volunteers pour into our patients, visitors and staff members as well.”
There are currently 28 volunteers. As a group, the Auxiliary contributed a combined total of 3,744 hours over the last year. Kate Bonderer presented awards including 100-hour pins and Star Volunteer pins for those who have contributed more than 100 hours or five years of service. CCMH CEO Scott Thoreson shared his appreciation for their service and provided a hospital update.
“In many cases, our CCMH volunteers are the first people that patients or visitors interact with when they arrive at our hospital,” said Scott Thoreson, CCMH Chief Executive Officer. “The volunteers set the stage for a beneficial and successful clinic visit, a laboratory draw, radiology scan or physical therapy appointment, to name a few examples. It is not unusual for the volunteers to actually know the names of those coming through the doors, and that helps reduce anxiety and makes for a better overall experience. CCMH has been named a Top 100 Critical Access Hospital in the country for the last 4 years, and part of our success starts with our top-notch volunteers!”
Examples of items the Auxiliary volunteers make for CCMH patients include:
· Children’s Activity Bags
· Eyeglass Cases
· Blankets and Quilts
· Comfort Pillows for Adults
· Comfort Critters for Children
· Sensory Aprons
· Pocket Prayer Quilts
· Bowl Cozys
· Seat Belt Cushion Protectors
· Walker Bags and Utility Bags for Rehab Therapy staff and patients
“When staff members bring a request or new idea to the volunteers, they are all over it,” Bonderer said. “You name it, they can probably make it. Their can-do attitude is so appreciated and their energy is contagious. I am so lucky to get to work with them!”
Other components of the event included breakfast, gifts, a slideshow, sharing the group’s accomplishments over the last year and positive comments from hospital staff.
