THUNDER BAY – Without volunteers, events like the Dudley Hewitt Cup, the Thunder Bay Marathon, The Blues Festival, and the Bay Street Film Festival could not happen. In fact many of the events that people across our city enjoy rely on volunteers.
So too, does the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre, and the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Foundation.
In the course of a year, there are 35,000 volunteer hours donated by 800 active volunteers from the Foundation, Health Sciences Centre, Volunteer Association, and Patient & Family Advisers.
Here is a short profile on just one of the volunteers who make things happen in Thunder Bay.
Deborah Emery, Volunteer, Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Foundation:
Deborah is getting ready for the fast-approaching 14th annual Elekta Bachelors for Hope Charity Auction.
“Being a part of the organizing committee has been a great opportunity to contribute to the fight against breast cancer in our community,” says Emery.
“It’s very rewarding to be part of an event that raises funds for the Northern Cancer Fund’s Breast Cancer Fund. Although it’s a lot of time and planning, it’s such a fun event that it really doesn’t seem like work!” says Emery, with a smile.
This event relies on a hard-working committee to help recruit and train bachelors (including dance classes!) and put on a sensational night of entertainment.
“On a personal note, volunteering has allowed me to meet many wonderful people and form lasting friendships. This year marks my 5th auction and I’m confident that it will be an exciting & successful event,” says Emery.
“The Elekta Bachelors for Hope Charity Auction is April 19, 2012 at the Valhalla Inn and promises to be a smashing success – it’s already sold out!”
Interesting facts:
Annual number of inquiries to the Information Desk – 103,019
Number of Goodnight Program visits to patient per year 37,440
Number of Gift Cart visits per year – 20,800
Number of golf tournaments each year – 6
There are lots of opportunities for you to get involved too. Those interested in volunteering at the Health Sciences Centre, please visit www.tbh.net/volunteers for information on the application process and a listing of our programs. Applicants must be 16 years of age or older, submit an application form and two reference forms, and complete a 2-step TB testing.
An enhanced Criminal Record Check is required for volunteering in the pediatrics department.
If the Health Sciences Foundation interests you, please visit www.healthsciencesfoundation.ca. Our volunteer registration form is ready for you to fill. Once complete, you will have an orientation meeting and opportunity to match with the volunteer opportunity that interests you most.