Van Diest Medical Center hosted a special Volunteer Appreciation celebration Tuesday, April 23, as part of National Volunteer Week. A light brunch was served and volunteers were welcomed by Lisa Ridge, chief executive officer of VDMC. Diane Doering, president of the VDMC Auxiliary, gave an update of the group’s activities.

A program entitled “Untamed Patagonia, Argentina and Chile” was presented by Mark Dohms, who also serves as a VDMC volunteer.

Those attending included, kneeling in front, Kristi Nelson and Mark Dohms; standing are, Kevin Bahrenfuss, Joan Haberman, Linda Bowers, Diane Doering, Debbie Jaycox, An’Nyce Hoff, Shirley Bowman, Charlotte Sherman, Jerita Nelson, Sue Anderson, Marilyn Middleton, Don Bruner, Lorraine Habben, Janet Moody, Rusty Gaul, Dennie Webb and Dan Corrow.

VDMC volunteers operate the gift shop, serve as greeters and bedside ambassadors, assist with blood drives and offer assistance through the Senior Health Insurance Information Program.

Those interested in volunteering at VDMC can contact Anne Blankenship, volunteer coordinator, at ablankenship@vandiestmc.org, or call 515-832-7767.