As Volunteer Manager at Winona Health, I see the difference our volunteers make to our patients, residents, families and staff every single day.

‌Our hospital was established in February of 1894, and in March of that year, a group of volunteers formed with the purpose of supporting the hospital. So, our volunteer organization has been serving and supporting Winona Health for as long as Winona Health has been caring for our community. That means, this year, our Volunteers mark an incredible milestone – 130 years of caring, serving and giving!

Today, more than 200 community members volunteer at Winona Health, and in 2023 they dedicated over 12,000 hours of their time helping in more than 30 service areas throughout or organization. That’s equivalent to six full-time employees! Our volunteers are not only generous with their time, but they are kind and caring people to work alongside – and a lot of fun, too!

Our volunteers also plan and host fundraisers to support projects that benefit our patients and residents. This past year their events raised over $36,000 to fund projects and purchase equipment to make care even better for patients and residents.

Winona Health’s mission is to inspire, recognize and empower the caregiver in all of us. And throughout our 130 years, the essence of caregiving has connected us all. So, when you see one of our volunteers–take a moment to say thank you.

New volunteers are always welcome! If you or someone you know seeks a meaningful way to give back to the community while forging lasting friendships, please contact me at Winona Health. More information about volunteering and what our volunteers do is available on our website: Volunteer Appreciation & Awards.

A heartfelt THANK YOU, to our Winona Health Volunteers, for being part of our story and carrying on a legacy that began 130 years ago. We appreciate your unwavering support, and we are grateful to be caring for our community with you!