A look back…
Gracious and giving community members have formally helped serve Powell’s healthcare needs since 1957, when the Gray Ladies became an important human resource.
The Gray Ladies, after special instruction from the Red Cross organization, began helping hospital patients to write letters, read, converse and add to their comfort whenever asked to do so.
In November 1982, a newly-chartered auxiliary formed, tasked with setting up and managing the Powell Lifeline, a home emergency alert system. Mamie Hunter, an original member of the Gray Ladies, joined this new group of volunteers. Jackie Payne, wife of the late Dr. Ray Christensen, became the first president of this new healthcare volunteer organization. At that time, the district purchased 10 Lifeline units. Today, the volunteer organization manages over 100 Lifeline units, some of which offer mobile and fall-detection capabilities.
Several ladies within the community joined the organization as charter members, and some of those original members still actively help Powell Valley Healthcare today. One of these ladies is Coleen Metzler. Coleen has served as the president of the Powell Hospital Auxiliary (what is now formally called PVHC Volunteer Services) three terms and has been a member of the organization for over 35 years. She continues to serve as a front desk hospital receptionist, the chair of employee education scholarships, and in other ways.
PVHC is very grateful for all the wonderful people in our community who have volunteered their time and talents to help the community over the years.
Today
PVHC benefits from several volunteers who help out in the hospital, care center, and at The Heartland Assisted Living to provide great service and care to our patients and guests. Several men have joined forces with us and help out with various projects in the hospital and care center. From helping to stock vending machines and transport recyclables to setting up luncheons and providing entertainment in the care center, these men provide much needed help, and we greatly appreciate them.
PVHC volunteers also raise money through gift shop sales, vending machines, and other fundraising activities. The funds are used to help with special projects and provide nearly $10,000 annually for student and employee education scholarships. Some recent projects include:
- New furniture in the hospital lobby and in the lab waiting room.
- Paint for the Orthopedics & Sports Medicine clinic and OB clinic.
- The new birthing tub in OB.
- OB patient room remodel.
- Support of the OB department’s new baby warmer equipment.
- New chairs in the PVHC Cafe
PVHC Volunteer Services is always on the lookout for new members who would like to help the community. Volunteer opportunities include:
- Gift shop.
- Beauty shop (care center).
- Plant care.
- Magazine distribution.
- Community blood drive.
- Vending machines.
- Recycling.
- Special projects.
- And more.
If you would like to join us, please call Jim at 307.754.1104, or Amy at 307.754.1233 Thank you!