Photo caption: Susan (centre right) with the Association of Volunteers executive committee, 1993–1994.
By: Katie Fraser, Communications Advisor, Women's College Hospital
Many people commit their lives to their partners and families but imagine dedicating the majority of your life to an institution. A place that gives you purpose, inspires you and helps you create lasting friendships. That’s what so many individuals like Susan and Darleen have done for Women’s College Hospital (WCH), as devoted volunteers.
Susan and Darleen have volunteered at WCH for over 40 and 60 years, respectively. Through their time at the hospital, they established some important roles within the different auxiliaries (volunteers started as numerous WCH auxiliaries beginning in 1915). They also sat on the Women’s College Hospital Foundation Board, chaired fundraising committees, and led the amalgamation to form the official Association of Volunteers (AOV) at WCH in 1972.
When asked what keeps them motivated after all these years, their answers were sincere and heartwarming.
“What keeps me motivated in my role with the AOV is wanting to do the ladies who came before me proud, and honour their commitment and memory,” shares Susan.
Darleen says that she still feels that their support is helping the hospital. “It may be in a different way than we have in the past, more service than fundraising, but it’s the appreciation that keeps us going. The feeling that we really are making a difference at the hospital.”
And a difference they are most certainly making. The AOV just celebrated its 110th anniversary at WCH. Over the years, they have fundraised and provided support for new hospital programs, innovative research and creating a more equitable health system. The AOV has played an essential role in advancing WCH’s mission and supporting exemplary patient care.
It’s because of people like Susan and Darleen that WCH can continue supporting the diverse population it serves.
The AOV has touched so many people’s lives. Susan shared that her most memorable moments are when the AOV has been able to present fundraising cheques to the hospital. She was a part of the AOV’s pledge on their 85th anniversary to raise $850,000 in 850 days, and they fulfilled that commitment.
Photo caption: Official Opening of the Sexual Assault Care Centre at WCH, April 12, 1984. Darleen – on the left.
Darleen remembers and values her time connected with patients. At a time when WCH still delivered babies, "mothers would come in with difficult pregnancies and could be at WCH for months. The AOV would do so many things to keep them company.”
One of the ways was in support of parents who would unfortunately lose their babies. The AOV worked with staff at WCH to publish a book, A Beginning. It was given to grieving parents and talked about what happens after such a tragic loss.
Echoing the hospital’s values in equity, the AOV ensured that the book was published in multiple languages and brail. When giving the book, parents were also presented with a handmade blanket to swaddle their babies. Recognition that young children's hold significant value and will be remembered.
The AOV has grown since its inception. Evolving with the needs of the hospital and welcoming new members every year. From senior members to high school students, the AOV embraces individuals who seek community, education and providing service.
Susan and Darleen were asked “if you could give one piece of advice to a new volunteer at WCH, what would it be?”
Susan explained that “these shared moments at WCH will shape who you will be and want to be, so take it all in.”
“I’m so excited to see the young volunteers with the same kind of commitment we have. There are so many things to learn, make sure to volunteer above your placement and do something extra at WCH,” Darleen advises.
Photo caption: Members of the Association of Volunteers at Women’s College Hospital with the Honourable Edith Dumont, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario.
Through the 75th, 85th, 95th and now 110th anniversary of the AOV, the members have been invited to the Lieutenant Governor’s Office in recognition of their years of service to WCH. Susan spearheaded this initiative and gathered a group of volunteers to join in the celebration. This recognition highlights the profound impact of their commitment, compassion and hard work.
To Susan, Darleen and all the members of the AOV, past and present, WCH extends its gratitude to the volunteers whose contributions continue to shape the organization and strengthen the community it serves. Thank you!