Courtesy photo Members of the OSF HealthCare St. Francis Hospital & Medical Group Auxiliary were recently recognized for reaching milestone volunteer hours at the hospital, assisting patients and visitors. Members include, front, standing from left, Carol Kocsis, Gayle Gill, Sue Scheeneman, Cynthia Herakovic, and Gerald Nelson. In back are Jean Arvan, Lynne Magnuson, Bonnie Hannemann, and Jan Guindon.

ESCANABA — OSF HealthCare St. Francis Hospital & Medical Group Auxiliary members and hospital volunteers were recognized at their May meeting. The hospital’s volunteers were celebrated for milestone volunteer hours from 50 to 2,000 hours.

Jean Arvan, director of philanthropy and volunteer coordinator at OSF St. Francis Hospital, said the 30 members represent over 13,000 hours of service.

“We are humbled by their dedication,” she said.

OSF St. Francis Hospital & Medical Group Auxiliary members and volunteers donate more than 11,000 hours each year helping patients and visitors, said Arvan. They assist in a variety of ways, including staffing the hospital information desk, medical office building information desk, gift shop and surgery waiting lounge and assisting hospice staff, patients and family members. Many also assist with fundraising efforts, helping to raise more than $50,000 each year to purchase new equipment and support new services.

“We could not offer some of the many services we do without their support,” said Arvan. “We are so grateful for their continued commitment to our patients and for their efforts to help us ensure the highest-quality care through their funding efforts.”

Arvan said volunteers also benefit from their efforts, with opportunities to socialize and make new friends, remain active in the community and assist people when the need is greatest.

For information about volunteer opportunities with OSF HealthCare St. Francis Hospital & Medical Group or OSF Hospice, contact Jean Arvan at 786-5707, ext. 5516.