Meet the Rickards – Decades of Volunteerism
Published Saturday, April 20, 2024
(L-R) Roger and Barb Rickards have been dedicated volunteers at the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Foundation for many years.
How long have you and Roger been volunteering for? What inspired you to start volunteering? And what motivates you to continue volunteering?
Barb and Roger Rickards have been dedicated volunteers at the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Foundation for decades. Over the years, they have steadfastly continued their service through the organization's various mergers and changes. Barb described their involvement with the expression “long in the tooth”.
Barb's journey into volunteering started with a nudge from her employer, who encouraged their staff to have active involvement in the community. The gratification she experienced from this endeavor spurred her to continue. Upon retiring in 2001, Barb not only increased her volunteer commitments but also engaged with numerous organizations. Nevertheless, the TBRHSC continued to hold a special place in her altruistic heart, remaining the focal point of her dedication.
Barb - “Two individuals, Elaine Graydon, currently the Manager, Events with the Foundation, and Georgie Hari, who sadly passed away just a few weeks ago, played pivotal roles in keeping me engaged. Georgie transitioned from a colleague at Bell, to becoming the CEO of the Foundation after retiring, leaving an indelible mark on my involvement. Elaine was eager to keep us engaged, continually inviting us to participate in numerous golf events.”
Can you share a memorable experience or accomplishment from your volunteer work with the Foundation?
Barb - “One unforgettable moment occurred during a ticket-selling stint at Festa Italiana. As we were promoting a trip to Rome, a long-lost friend named Linda unexpectedly crossed our path. After catching up and exchanging hugs, she made a spontaneous decision to purchase a ticket from me for the trip. Much to our delight, Linda later reached out to remind me of this encounter, excitedly sharing that she had the winning ticket, granting her the opportunity to embark on the journey to Rome. Although a girls' trip to Rome would have undoubtedly been enjoyable, I am grateful that Linda had the opportunity to travel with her children and grandchildren. If she had not spotted me and decided to approach for a chat, that trip would have never happened. It seems only fair that our next coffee catch-up is on her!”
How do you think organizations can better support and recognize their volunteers?
Barb – “Truth be told, we don't see any enhancements as necessary at the moment; everything is absolutely splendid. The staff, both at the Foundation and TBRHSC, are not only appreciative but also exceptionally complimentary to a fault. Every shift ends with an enthusiastic thank you, leaving you with a profound sense of accomplishment. It's impossible not to feel that your time has been rendered incredibly meaningful and positive to them. We're delighted to spend our time volunteering alongside the general public, witnessing their dedication to our hospital.
“This commitment is particularly evident when we work at the 50/50 store in Intercity Mall. Visitors not only purchase their tickets, but also eagerly request to receive the call by Glenn Craig, President and CEO of the Foundation, at 11:00 am on the last Friday of every month when the Grand Prize is drawn. With a playful wink and ‘tongue in cheek', we assure them that Glenn will indeed make the call. We jest about ordering a T-shirt for Glenn that reads, "Sorry I wasn't able to call you."
Interested in volunteering? Learn more at www.healthsciencesfoundation.ca/volunteer