At Russell Medical Center, volunteers have long been an important part of our health care team. They are people of all ages who generously donate their time, talents and financial support to a myriad of departments and services throughout the RMC campus. Through the RMC Auxiliary, Volunteer Chaplain’s Association, RSVP and student volunteer programs, these men and women have made innumerable contributions to the medical center’s operations, including the enhanced care and comfort patients and families receive through their selfless dedication to service.

Established in 1987, the RMC Auxiliary boasts a membership of 100+ active volunteers who work in a variety of capacities including the information desk, surgery waiting, outpatient registration, Emergency Department and medical/surgical floors. They are often found assisting administrative offices with projects and the community relations department with health fairs and hospital tours. The Auxiliary also owns and operates the RMC Gift Shop, a thriving enterprise located next to the front lobby.

For over two decades the Auxiliary has provided desired technology and equipment to the hospital through its annual fundraising efforts. The annual “Holiday Tree of Lights,” Christmas Bake Sale, and Fall Jewelry Sale are the primary projects. Handmade gifts of love are also prevalent. Each year several talented members stitch and decorate Christmas stockings for all the babies born at RMC in December.

One of the most phenomenal contributions is the Tate Thomas Memorial Scholarship awarded to qualifying applicants who are full time students in an approved health care field. In addition, the Auxiliary recently established the Barbara Waller Nursing Scholarship designed exclusively for RMC employees pursuing a Masters level nursing program or higher.

Another valuable service is the Alzheimer’s Support Group, organized and facilitated by Auxilian Emily Gilbert, RN. Emily’s compassion and keen understanding of dementia helps family and caregivers cope with the physical, mental and emotional changes that occur in patients with Alzheimer’s Disease.

For many years RMC has enjoyed an affiliation with the Retired Senior Volunteer Program. RSVP volunteers are assigned to RMC for the purpose of distributing magazines, newspapers and mail to patient rooms.

RMC’s Volunteer Chaplains Association was established in 1994 to render spiritual help to patients, their families and hospital staff by providing an on-call pastoral care program. Volunteer chaplains from various denominations serve the hospital on a weekly rotation basis.

Area high school students are exposed to volunteer opportunities through our student volunteer program. These summer sessions are designed to introduce youth to various health occupations.

RMC values our volunteers for their time, dedication and enormous contributions to our medical center. To learn more about the many volunteer opportunities available at Russell Medical Center, contact Sarah Newman, Volunteer Services Coordinator, 329-7177.