GLENDALE, Ariz. (May 16, 2008) — Banner Thunderbird Medical Center’s Volunteer Services department reached an all-time record for volunteer hours during the month of April. The medical center has been experiencing a steady increase in volunteers over the last year, culminating in more than 4,000 hours—a first-time record.

Banner Thunderbird currently has 342 active volunteers, up from 285 volunteers at this time last year. 

The new volunteers represent community members from all walks of life, including high school and college students, working adults and retirees. The increase in volunteers has allowed the volunteer services department to implement new programs that greatly enhance the patient experience. One such program is the new Essential Care Volunteer Program. 

“Essential care volunteers are specially-trained to welcome new patients to nursing areas and the emergency room,” says Kathy Lane, director of volunteer services. “They also provide comfort measures and companionship which help ease the stress of a hospital stay.”

Banner Thunderbird’s volunteer program received special recognition from Glendale Mayor Elaine Scruggs during April 2008’s National Volunteer Week for the enormous contributions made by community members who volunteer at the medical center and make a daily difference in the lives of patients and their families. 

For more information about Banner Thunderbird’s Volunteer Program, please visit www.bannerhealth.com or call (602) 865-5761.

About Banner Thunderbird Medical Center - Banner Thunderbird Medical Center, part of Banner Health—a nonprofit health system with 21 hospitals throughout the West—is a 374-bed acute-care hospital featuring a behavioral health center, children’s center and dedicated outpatient center. Banner Thunderbird is fully accredited by the Joint Commission.