Warwick Healthcare Campus hosts volunteer recognition luncheon

WARWICK — Ed Hodas, who just recently began volunteering his time at St. Anthony Community Hospital, logged a respectable 305 hours last year. But he has a long way to go before he catches up with veteran Catelina Roza. With many years of service as a volunteer for the hospital’s gift shop and transport service, she holds the record with more than 20,000 cumulative hours. During the celebration of National Volunteer Week, the Administration, Board of Directors and staff of the Bon Secours Warwick Campus hosted a Volunteer Recognition Luncheon for all volunteers on Friday, April 20, in the Greenbriar Room of Mount Alverno Center. Both Hodas and Roza were among many of the volunteers who received awards that day, in recognition of their passing significant milestones, ranging from hundreds to thousands of total hours accumulated. Every day, dedicated men, women and teens, ranging in age from high school students to senior citizens, donate their time and energy working in almost every area of the hospital. All such volunteers were honored for their important contribution to St. Anthony Community Hospital. “We could not carry out our mission without you,” said Judy Limberg, vice president patient care services. “When I arrive for work at 7:30 a.m., there’s always a volunteer waiting for me. Our people are our strength and you are our people.” Last year, over 17,000 hours of services were contributed by Warwick Healthcare Campus volunteers who all share a common desire to perform an important service for their community. “Each volunteer has a special place in our hearts,” said Yvonne Capone, human resource manager and assitant director of volunteer services. “This luncheon gives us an opportunity to show you how much we appreciate your dedication and commitment to the Warwick Campus facilities. You are our shining stars.” Take volunteer Al Eubanks, for example. He works nights at the Whitney Museum in New York City. He’s also a talented guitarist and since his days are generally free, he stops by during the week to entertain the residents at Mount Alverno Center. He also assists the Center’s staff on frequent resident outings, such as bowling. “I just love doing this,” said Eubanks. “I think the Bible would tell me not to go just one mile but to go two miles.” Capone explained that the most important quality for a volunteer is a real desire to serve the hospital, patients and the community. A dedicated and responsible approach to service is more important than prior experience or special skills. “Our volunteers are cherished members of our hospital family,” said Leah Cerkvenik, executive vice president/administrator of St. Anthony Community Hospital. “Besides donating these valuable hours, they continuously promote a better understanding of our Bon Secours Warwick Campus and its service to the community.”