In honour of International Volunteer Day, the staff at the Museum wrote a few words about the importance of volunteers to our organization.
Our volunteers are extremely important to our staff. From cataloguing and research to education programs, they help us with a variety of tasks and contribute to the daily operations of the Museum. We are grateful to have such a wonderful group of people support our work and improve the overall efficiency of the Museum of Health Care. Thank you to our volunteers for helping us preserve and share healthcare history!
“Volunteers have been a wonderful help to the advancement of several key projects, providing research and text for the App and about the collections. Their energy and enthusiasm invigorate projects, and their perspectives help take projects in new directions. With so much on the plates of full-time staff, the work of volunteers is critical to the development of the Museum.” (Pamela Peacock, Curator)
“Without retired nurses Claire Kelly and Mary White (each with thirty years experience as nurses, especially in the operating room) the 1,000 pieces of medical instruments and equipment from the Kingston General Hospital donation would not be identified. We would not know that there are parts missing or when something is no longer usable. They tell us how the instrument was used and even the process for operations. I am thankful for their help and knowledge. There are other volunteers, like Dr. Ralph Crawford, whose knowledge of dental history has helped us in the cataloguing and exhibit planning process. In addition, long-time supporter and Board member Marilyn Boston has helped me get in touch with nursing school alumni and access records and potential donors.” (Kathy Karkut, Collections Manager)
“The volunteer docents at the Museum of Health Care make our Education Programs possible. Their professionalism, enthusiasm, and teaching abilities are a pleasure to see. You can tell they love interacting with visitors, and that visitors have a great experience at the Museum as a result. Not only do they make the Museum of Health Care a better place, but they benefit our community as well.” (Jenny Stepa, Museum Manager and Program Coordinator) (insert photo of docents at work)
“As the newest member of our team, I was impressed both with our number of volunteers, as well as with their level of dedication. From marketing and fundraising, to special events, there is always someone willing to help out. It is wonderful to see so many people care about local cultural institutions and support our work time and time again. Thank you for all your dedication and hard work.” (Diana Gore, Communications and Finance Coordinator)