Left to right: Ruth Steinkruger (Volunteer of the Year), Cathy Osborn (Volunteer of the Year), Jen Hohlen (St. Francis Volunteer Services Manager), Jane Gloor (Nominee) and Karen Bortz (Nominee), (CHI Health, Courtesy)
GRAND ISLAND — Cathy Osborn and Ruth Steinkruger were named CHI Health St. Francis 2024 Volunteers of the Year during the hospital’s annual Volunteer and Scholarship Luncheon at Riverside Golf Club on April 23.
At the event, Sister Ann Ference and Sister Carole Wakefield were also honored with the St. Francis Volunteer Lifetime Achievement Award.
Nominated by leaders and employees, the awards recognize hospital volunteers who embody the hospital’s core values–compassion, inclusion, integrity, excellence and collaboration.
In 2023, a total of 224 volunteers donated 7,920 hours to St. Francis.
“Volunteers are truly an extension of the St. Francis family, serving and providing care for patients, guests and making a significant impact,” says Jen Hohlen, St. Francis Volunteer Services Manager. “The luncheon is a great opportunity to say thank you and show our appreciation to everyone who gives their time and talent by volunteering at St. Francis.”
Steinkruger, a 25-year volunteer, logged 2,204 lifetime hours and contributed 128 hours in 2023. She volunteers in Admissions helping visitors navigate the hospital.
Osborn, a 16-years volunteer and previous employee of St. Francis, logged 2,286 lifetime hours and 193 hours in 2023. She volunteers in the St. Francis Gift Shop.
Sr. Ference and Sr. Wakefield volunteer with the hospital’s Pastoral Care department providing Holy Communion to patients and assisting the hospital chaplains. They were recognized for a lifetime, more than 50-years, of service to the Church, St. Francis and the community including as a parish and registered nurse (Sr. Ference) and social worker (Sr. Wakefield).
Additional Volunteer of the Year nominees included Karen Bortz and Jane Gloor.
A variety of volunteer opportunities are available at CHI Health St. Francis. Please call the Volunteer Services office at 308.398.8960 for more information.
