Tanner News

In 1974, President Richard Nixon used an executive order to establish National Volunteer Week as a way to recognize and celebrate the efforts of volunteers. Every sitting U.S. president since has issued a proclamation during National Volunteer Week, as have many state governors and city mayors.

Since then, National Volunteer Week has become a nationwide effort to urge people to get out and volunteer in their communities. Every April, charities, communities and hospitals recognize their volunteers and foster a culture of service.

During National Volunteer Week, April 12-18, please join Tanner Health System and your peers in celebrating and recognizing our many dedicated volunteers, whose efforts make such a difference in the care and service that we provide to our patients and visitors every day.

“Often, it is the smallest of things or smallest of gestures that can bring the most comfort to us, to our patients and to this team. Whether it is a warm smile, a pat on the back or just a refreshing kind word, the actions of volunteers bring comfort to our patients and families each and every day. Their gestures — whether large or small — are comforting to those they meet in their volunteer roles, and we thank them for that,” said Jeanette Wheeler, director of Volunteer Services for Tanner Health System. “Although we honor the service of our volunteers each and every day, we celebrate their talents and their commitment to this organization during National Volunteer Week in a special way.”

According to Wheeler, more than 1.5 million hours have been donated to Tanner by volunteers in the volunteer program since its inception. There also are currently more than 50 service areas. Tanner averages around 250 volunteers across our facilities every month, and more than 1,200 people have volunteered their time at Tanner during the last five years.