PHS Celebrates National Volunteer Week
Thousands of organizations celebrate giving back to their communities during National Volunteer Week (April 15-21) by scheduling volunteer projects and special events. But for Pediatric Home Service, giving back to those in need is not just a week-long activity; it’s a year-round commitment.
PHS Employee Becki plays basketball with kids in iCAN Hoop program
Through our Sharing Care program, PHS provides its staff with the opportunity to donate time to programs and events in the community that are directly associated with serving medically-fragile and underprivileged children. In 2011, the company’s employees volunteered at 11 events and fundraisers, donating more than 300 hours of service to organizations throughout Minnesota and western Wisconsin.
Staff volunteer for organizations such as HopeKids MN, Ronald McDonald House, West Metro Miracle Athletics, Oley Foundation, Toys for Tots and numerous local children’s hospitals. The company also hosts two annual blood drives and raises money for a variety causes, including sending families to Faith’s Lodge, a retreat for people with medically-fragile children or families who have lost a child.
“Volunteering is a powerful experience in which I’m able to make an impact on kids and families outside of work. Giving back is not an obligation at Pediatric
PHS volunteers at Faith’s Lodge planting trees donated by PHS after many were lost in storm
Home Service, it’s simply part of our culture,” said Dana Akerson, Pediatric Home Service Marketing Specialist. “Sharing my time and talents makes me realize how meaningful it is to be part of something bigger than myself.”
Whether cooking dinner for families whose children are hospitalized, playing basketball with children with cognitive and/or physical challenges, bowling to raise money for a local children’s hospital, or planting trees at a charitable retreat center, Pediatric Home Service staff embrace volunteering as a way of life all year long.
Originally published: April 20, 2012