GORE BAY—Volunteers of the Manitoulin Lodge Nursing Home in Gore Bay were feted with an appreciation event last week.
“Good afternoon. It is great to see everyone on this gorgeous day,” said Gloria Hall, activities coordinator of the Manitoulin Lodge at the volunteer appreciation gathering on May 30.
“I want to start off by thanking each and every one for taking the time to volunteer your precious time,” said Ms. Hall. “Whether it is with hair care, helping residents to the salon to get their hair done, providing music and song for an entertaining afternoon, helping with bingo-helping residents to find numbers and pictures, ladies’ and men’s breakfast-a monthly event where volunteers cook and serve a breakfast for Lodge residents, pastoral care-providing weekly inspirational spiritual services, supper club-a program in the winter where residents help with the preparations and enjoy the fruits of their labours served by the volunteers, Angel bus drivers-who drive our bus to various appointments and outings, Angel bus companions-volunteers who accompany a resident to an appointment, special events volunteers-volunteers who help with monthly special events and days, pet therapy-volunteers who share their pets with us, one to one visitors-volunteers who visit residents, volunteers who help with outings, be it picnics, dress rehearsals, community events etc.”
“These are just a few ways that volunteers help. We have a core of volunteers who meet monthly to help plan events,” said Ms. Hall. “And residents volunteer as well, helping to fold laundry sometimes, and put out the tablecloths for the dinner tables. And our Lodge staff are volunteers as well. Volunteering encompasses a lot of different people.”
“Each and every one is appreciated,” said Ms. Hall. “Many of our events wouldn’t happen without the help of volunteers. When I call you to help, I always hear ‘yes, I can be there’.”
“It’s hard to come up with adequate words to tell you how much your support means. You are all hard working, unique and selfless individuals who make such an unforgettable difference to many,” continued Ms. Hall. “Thank you for your energy and passion you give to the residents and Manitoulin Lodge.”
Ms. Hall said as volunteers, “You are remarkable human beings with a big heart for others. You bring positive energy to whatever you are doing. You have a heart of gold.”
“If gratitude is worth millions, then you are a billionaire,” stated Ms. Hall. “Thank you for all the priceless work you do as a volunteer. Kind-hearted and dedicated volunteers, you’ve shown a great example to us, and we want you to know just how appreciated all of you are.”
“I know volunteers don’t ask for rewards, but we hope our tokens of appreciation will be a reward for you just the same. Make sure to take one home with you,” said Ms. Hall. “Volunteers don’t necessarily have the time; they just have the heart and make it work.”
The gathering of volunteers, residents and Lodge staff members then took part in singing several songs, included ‘Bye Bye Blackbird,’ ‘Catch A Falling Star,’ ‘He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands,’ and others.
“We would like to thank everyone for coming out today for this appreciation event,” said Ms. Hall. “Residents and staff thank and appreciate everything you do. Please enjoy the snacks we have provided.”
“We here at the Manitoulin Lodge are so fortunate to have all of you here, who provide so much time and make a difference in the lives of the residents,” added Ms. Hall.
