Celebrating 75 Years of Service: Phelps Health Honors Volunteers at Annual Luncheon

On April 16, more than 90 Phelps Health volunteers, their guests and employees gathered at the Rolla Lions Club Den for the annual Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon, held in celebration of National Volunteer Appreciation Week. This year’s event also marked a major milestone: the 75th anniversary of the Phelps Health Auxiliary and Volunteer Services (AVS) Department, which organizes the luncheon to thank the many volunteers who generously share their time and talents with the healthcare system.

“We deeply appreciate our volunteers and AVS board members,” said Crystal Lorah, AVS director. “This event lets us thank them for everything they do for Phelps Health and the community.”

Originally formed in 1950 as the Ladies’ Auxiliary, AVS was founded by 78 charter members who met at Rolla’s Uptown Theatre with the shared goal of opening a local hospital. They held fundraisers and an open house, and created hand-sewn items for patients. Their efforts laid the foundation for what would become a remarkable legacy of service to the Hospital and the region.

Phelps Health Pastoral Care Manager Michael Parrott opened the program with a prayer before the meal, which was served by a team of Phelps Health employees. Attendees heard heartfelt stories from past AVS leaders and honored decades of selfless service. Current AVS President Leona Rosenow and Immediate Past AVS President Julie Schmidt presented a ceremonial check for more than $3.5 million to Keri Brookshire-Heavin, senior vice president, chief operating officer and chief nursing officer at Phelps Health; and Ben Tipton, Phelps Health Board of Trustees member. The check represents 75 years of contributions from AVS to the healthcare system.

Rosenow also recognized Lorah; Neal Fallesen, auxiliary/volunteer operations supervisor; and Deanna Brown, gift shop merchandiser.

Finally, volunteers with over 20 years of service received special recognition for their dedication, including:

• Dottie Reno – 20 years (6,354 hours)

• Mabel Godfrey – 25 years (11,810 hours)

• Leona Rosenow – 29 years (7,274 hours)

• Helen Hoertel – 38 years (8,847 hours)

Also honored, but not in attendance, were:

• Jean Joiner – 30 years (6,568 hours)

• Oak Paul – 23 years (3,827 hours)

• Betty Davis – 23 years (1,143 hours)

• Jayne Stites – 21 years (3,831 hours)

Lorah closed the program by expressing gratitude for the work of all current and past volunteers and AVS board members, thanking them for the incredible impact they’ve had on our community.

From crafting comfort items for patients to offering a warm welcome at the door, volunteers perform countless acts of service that help shape the caring, community-based environment Phelps Health is known for. Their contributions leave a lasting impression on patients, visitors and staff alike.