A Hospital runs on the expertise of its physicians, nurses, and staff—but just as important are the dedicated volunteers who help create a positive and compassionate environment for patients and their families in their times of need.
Here’s a spotlight on Yvonne Kaine’s journey from being a patient and caregiver to now volunteer and Board member.
Yvonne’s journey with CMH began in 2005, when her husband had a stroke. “We spent the summer at CMH for his care and recovery. The support we received stayed with us.”
Inspired by that care, first her husband became a volunteer; Yvonne would drive him to his shifts and remembers, “I always saw him happy after his shifts, he enjoyed volunteering here.” And soon after, Yvonne followed.
In 2018, Yvonne joined the Volunteer Association Board (CMHVA) as the Business Director for the Red Poppy Gift Shop and Tim Hortons. She also supports the Recovery Room (thrift shop) and Vendor Program.
“Shopping for the gift shop is a highlight for me. But it’s also the people—interacting with them, supporting them, helping uplift their mood—that really makes my volunteering here special.”
“I always try to have fun during my shifts,” she says.
Yvonne has witnessed CMH’s transformation over the years as a patient, volunteer, and board member—from CMH’s first MRI to the opening of Wings A and B, she compares the Future Ready CMH with the first time she visited and calls the difference “night and day!”
She supports the Hospital not just with her time, but as a Foundation monthly donor and Legacy Circle member.
“Monthly gifts are the way to go. Modest monthly donations can add up to something meaningful. And as a volunteer, I see the impact firsthand.”
As someone deeply involved in the Hospital community, Yvonne has also noticed the ongoing need for volunteers, especially in the wake of the pandemic.
“We’ve seen a decline in applications,” she notes. “We’re always looking for more volunteers—especially younger people who can help with some of the day-to-day responsibilities.”