Volunteers attend the unveiling alongside REDHS staff.
Photo by
Lua Ikenasio
The Rochester and Elmore District Health Service recently celebrated its team of dedicated volunteers as part of National Volunteer Week.
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Guests and REDHS staff gathered to unveil a new crepe myrtle tree in honour of the volunteers.
Long-time REDHS volunteer Alma Limerick chose the crepe myrtle tree.
Photo by
Lua Ikenasio
Long-time volunteer Alma Limerick said she chose to plant a tree as a way to leave a lasting impact on the community.
“The theme for this year’s National Volunteers Week is connecting communities,” she said.
“The hospital is one of the biggest community connectors around and I thought, ‘what could we do that might make an impact on the whole community?’
“I did some research on what sort of tree grows best around here and we came to the decision of this beautiful crepe myrtle.”
The unveiling was held on Monday, May 26, with nine long-time volunteers attending the event.
REDHS board chair Chris White and chief executive Mary Manescu unveil the tree.
Photo by
Lua Ikenasio
Although the tree was an initiative by the current group of helpers, it is also a commemoration of past volunteers who have had a hand in the hospitals’ success.
The tree can be seen on the hospital’s front lawn and has a plaque at its foot, detailing the tribute.
Mary Manescu gives thanks to volunteers for all their work.
Photo by
Lua Ikenasio
REDHS chief executive Mary Manescu said the tree acted as a symbol of the hospital’s gratitude to the volunteers.
“This tree stands as a living symbol of gratitude for all volunteers — past and present,” she said.
“As it grows and flourishes, may it remind us of your ongoing contribution and may you flourish alongside it.
“You help build the kind of community we all want to be part of, one where people look out for one another.”
National Volunteer Week ran from Monday, May 19, to Sunday, May 25.
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