RiverView Health’s Auxiliary consists of over 300 members, many of whom dedicate their time and talents to raise funds for projects aimed at enhancing the patient experience at RiverView Health. Being recognized as the top volunteer from such a large group is special, but so is Kathie Barnes. Barnes was recently named the 2024 Alta Hermodson Heart and Soul Award recipient, also known as the Auxiliary’s Volunteer of the Year Award.
The annual award, created in 2003, is given to a volunteer(s) who exemplifies the Auxiliary’s mission of volunteerism and service to RiverView Health, just as Alta Hermodson did. Hermodson was involved in her church, library, hospital, and museum. She truly gave of herself and volunteered at places in which she believed.
Those nominating Barnes stated she was the first person they thought of when nomination time rolled around.
“Kathie is an awesome volunteer and is always willing to lend a helping hand in the gift shop and with fundraising activities,” the nomination stated. “Kathie is a dedicated volunteer who always is willing to help whenever needed, and it is always done with a smile and positive attitude.
“We are proud to nominate Kathie for the Alta Hermodson Award. She deserves this award and would make Alta very proud to see such a dedicated individual receiving this award in her name.”
Not only is Kathie a dedicated volunteer in the Limited Addition Gift Shop, but over the years, she has also served as treasurer, vice president, and president of the Auxiliary Board.
“She is a great example of what the Alta Hermodson Heart & Soul Award stands for,” concluded the nomination.
Left to right: Auxiliary Board members Judie Kanten, Deb Sylvester, Volunteer of the Year Kathie Barnes, Gloria Watro, Jean LaPlante, and Marlys Mjoen.
