Auxiliary/Volunteers
The West Haldimand General Hospital Auxiliary was established in 1963, one year before the hospital opened. Since 1964, the Auxiliary has raised more than $1.4 million to purchase essential equipment that supports patient care.
Auxiliary members at WHGH are a driving force for us. Whether they are actively helping those in need or offering comfort to patients during difficult times, their presence has always proven to be one of life’s most rewarding experiences.
Their work allows our communities to be directly involved in enhancing the care experience for every person, every day.
In addition to adding a caring and personal touch to our patients’ experience at WHGH, the Auxiliary complements the role of our professional staff. They are a critical and valued part of our organization and make all the difference in the world for our patients.
Or email Karen McKellar, Manager of Support Services and Volunteer Coordinator at Karen.mckellar@whgh.ca for more information and learn how you could make a difference. Karen will work with you to find a position that fits your schedule and aligns with your interests.
Discover the value of volunteering today!
Supporting Patient Care at WHGH
The impact of the WHGH Auxiliary can be seen throughout the hospital.
Thanks to their fundraising efforts, the Auxiliary recently helped purchase a Code Blue Alert system for the Diagnostic Imaging area. A Code Blue alert is used when a patient experiences a medical emergency such as cardiac or respiratory arrest. The system allows staff to quickly call for help and alert the emergency response team so they can respond right away. When every second counts, this system helps ensure patients receive immediate care.
The Auxiliary also funded new bedside tables for patient rooms at WHGH. These tables give patients a safe and convenient place to keep personal items, meals, and important belongings close by during their stay. Small improvements like this help make patients more comfortable during their time in hospital.
The WHGH Auxiliary is also a key player in fundraising for vital life-saving equipment for WHGH. Since 1963, the WHGH Auxiliary has raised more than $1.4-Million!
Many WHGH volunteers say they receive far more than they give. Some examples of the benefits of volunteering include:
- Helping and serving those in need;
- Networking with other volunteers;
- Obtaining references for employment, scholarships and bursaries;
- Gaining valuable experience; and
- Making new friends.
What our volunteers are saying!
“I love volunteering at the hospital because I love meeting new people,” said Jo-Ann. “I enjoy serving the public with a happy smile. The proceeds raised at the Cafe and Gift Shop go right back to WHGH, which our family has used many times over the years.”
“The best part of my position is interacting with people and being of assistance to them, said Deborah. “Offering a smile as they enter and leave to hopefully make their visit or stay as pleasant as possible.”
“One of the best things about volunteering at WHGH is helping people,” said Alice. “You feel that you are making a positive difference, and you get to meet a lot of nice people along the way. And there is a special camaraderie with all the members that we have. We are all friendly and help one another.”
“Volunteering at WHGH will give you a very rewarding experience because you are always helping someone,” said Betty. “There are several opportunities to volunteer at WHGH, and I know more volunteers are needed.”
