Celebrating Volunteer Week at SMH
April 22, 2026
The Power of Giving: Celebrating the SMH Auxiliary During
National Volunteer Week
At Stevenson Memorial Hospital (SMH), volunteers are at the
heart of the care we provide and the sense of community we foster. This
National Volunteer Week, we’re proud to celebrate the dedicated members of the
SMH Auxiliary who give their time, compassion, and energy to support patients,
families, and staff.
With a legacy dating back to 1928, the SMH Auxiliary
continues to play a vital role in hospital life. From running the Treasures
& Treats Gift Shop to welcoming visitors at the Information Desk,
volunteers contribute in meaningful ways across the organization. Through their
ongoing fundraising efforts—raising over $1 million to date—the Auxiliary helps
fund essential equipment and enhance patient care.
We connected with several of our volunteers to learn what
inspires them and what they love most about their roles.
Finding purpose in connection
Karin – Gift Shop Volunteer
“I have been volunteering in the gift shop for about eight
years. Before I retired, I worked in retail for 35 years and really missed the
interaction with people.
One day, I spoke with a volunteer during Tag Day, and she
suggested I apply at the hospital. I now look forward to every shift—whether
I’m helping customers or selecting items for the shop.
It’s very fulfilling to know that the money we raise helps
purchase equipment for the hospital.”
A warm welcome at the front desk
Donna Ross – Information Desk Volunteer
Donna has been volunteering at SMH for over five years,
greeting patients and visitors every Wednesday morning.
“I enjoy helping people, whether that’s answering questions,
guiding them to appointments, or simply offering a warm blanket if someone is
cold. I especially love seeing children smile when I give them finger puppets
and colouring pages.”
A stepping stone to the future
Student Volunteer (Anonymous)
After more than a year of volunteering, one of our student
volunteers shared this reflection as they prepared for their next chapter:
“Being able to volunteer at Stevenson has helped me develop
new skills and grow as a person. I’ve supported patients through a wide range
of situations and gained valuable insight into hospital operations. This
experience has strengthened my goal of pursuing a career in medicine. I’m
incredibly grateful to the entire SMH team for this opportunity.”
A lifelong connection to community
Carla Beckett – Auxiliary Volunteer
“I worked at SMH in Human Resources and saw firsthand how
dedicated our staff are. When I retired in 2012, I knew I wanted to return as a
volunteer.
Being part of the hospital means being part of the
community. I enjoy learning people’s stories and connecting with fellow
volunteers; it’s especially meaningful for seniors.
Volunteers make a real difference. We support departments,
fundraise for essential equipment (raising over $1 million) and represent the
hospital in the community.
Volunteering at SMH is an important part of my life.”
Thank you to our volunteers
Whether they’re welcoming patients, guiding visitors,
supporting staff, or fundraising for the future, our volunteers make a
meaningful difference every day.
Your generosity, kindness, and unwavering commitment
continue to strengthen Stevenson Memorial Hospital and the community we serve.