River Parishes Hospital volunteers were honored at a luncheon on Thursday, April 10, in recognition of National Volunteer Week.

Robert Marshall, hospital CEO, welcomed everyone to the banquet and thanked the volunteers for their service to the hospital. 

“I’d like to take this opportunity to stress to you how important you are to our hospital and to show you how much we value the time that you donate to us each year,” said Marshall. “We appreciate you for your dedication to our hospital and for promoting our hospital in the community.”

In 2013, hospital volunteers donated a total of 4,500 hours at the hospital. 

Tammy Waltz, community relations coordinator, recognized all of the volunteers who served at the hospital in 2013 with a certificate signifying the hours they donated to the hospital during that year and the total number of hours they donated throughout their tenure. 

Volunteers who reached a milestone in their service received a bar to hang from their volunteer pin. 

The hospital welcomed five new volunteers this year. They each received a volunteer service pin.

Waltz also presented two special awards this year. 

Jean Haas received a certificate for being the Most Loyal Volunteer. Haas has been a River Parishes Hospital volunteer since the hospital opened in 1982. She currently serves as the manager of the gift shop. 

Ruby Anders received a certificate for donating the most hours in 2013. She donated a total of 763 hours. She currently serves as a cashier in the gift shop.

River Parishes Hospital is currently seeking adult volunteers to join its group. Previous work experience is not necessary – only a warm, friendly attitude and a willingness to help others. Volunteers are asked to maintain four hours of service each week and receive a complimentary meal in the cafeteria each day of service. 

Volunteers also receive complimentary membership in the Senior Friends Program. For more information about volunteer opportunities available, call Waltz at 985-653-1644.