Linda Brown Named PCH Volunteer of the Year

Linda Brown, of Paris, was named the 2016 Volunteer of the Year at Paris Community Hospital during an April 26 reception at the hospital. The reception took place during National Volunteer Week.

Brown has been a PCH Volunteer since May 2008, providing more than 673 hours of service to date. Those who nominated Brown for the award said she is always willing to help when asked and has a kind heart.

In 2016, 47 PCH Volunteers donated 6,200 hours – the equivalent of more than two-and-a-half, full-time staff members. That exceeded hours donated the previous year (5,436 hours in 2015). They also recruited five new members.

The volunteers’ work included distributing mail, assisting with patient transport, operating the gift shop, decorating the hospital, and participating in special events.

PCH Volunteers also achieved the following in 2016:

• Created a new service of staffing the surgery waiting room
• Conducted book fairs and chocolate sales
• Awarded a $1,000 healthcare scholarship to an area high school student and another to a PCH/FMC employee
• Supported the hospital’s annual fundraising event for the purchase of a new Multi-Wave Locked System (MLS) laser used to manage pain and promote healing of injuries and other debilitating conditions

The April 26 reception also honored other individuals who provide volunteer service to PCH/FMC. In addition to the PCH Volunteers, these include the hospital and foundation board of directors, chaplains, swing bed helpers, and Meals On Wheels volunteers.

If you are interested in volunteer opportunities at PCH/FMC, call (217) 465-2606, Ext. 4295.