There was a nice gathering of residents and care center volunteers last week at the North Shore Care Center where an appreciation party was held for volunteers. Seated at the front table are Joyce Heiskari, Chet Lindskog and behind Chet, Eleanor Waha. In 2016 Eleanor, then a spry 91, was selected as the LeadingAge Minnesota District B Volunteer of the Year award winner. Eleanor has more than 50 years of volunteering at the hospital and care center. Staff photo/Brian Larsen
There was a nice turnout last Thursday, May 16, for the appreciation party held for people who volunteer at the Cook County Northshore Health Care Center.
Addressing the volunteers, Northshore Health Director Kimber Wraastad told them that they were a vital link that allowed the people in the care center to stay connected to the community. “When people come here they give up a lot,” said Kimber. “They leave behind belongings, their pets, their homes, but they are still part of us. When you come here and play music, or bring worship service here, or just come to visit, that mean so much to the people who are living here.”
Pointing to the three staff members that lead activities for the residents, Marcie Wood, Belinda Hudler, and Erik Pignolet, Wraalstad thanked them for their continuous efforts to bring quality programs and service to the facility, but she added, “They can’t do it alone. We can’t do all that we do without the help of volunteers. You are an essential part of this operation, and we can’t thank you enough.”
The celebration was part of National Nursing Home Week, which was held May 12 to May18 as a way to recognize the vibrant spirit of the residents, as well as acknowledge staff that works with a sense of dedication, purpose and compassion.
Care Center Activities Director Belinda Huddler pointed to the volunteers in attendance and asked them to tell a little bit about what they did. One lady who brought music to the care center remarked that felt like she received more than she gave. From the nodding of heads in agreement, it was clear that it was a sentiment shared by many.
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