Dorothy “Dot” Welsch was recently named the 2011 Volunteer of the Year for Citrus Memorial Health System.

“Dot’s passion for helping others and her dedication to Citrus Memorial made her the ideal candidate for this award,” said Lynnette Sosa, Citrus Memorial Volunteer Supervisor.

“Dot has served the hospital for more than 16 years and has given over 9,000 hours of service. She has demonstrated time and again the true spirit of philanthropy.”

Citrus Memorial staff and volunteers are responsible for nominating the Volunteer of the Year. In order to be nominated, an individual must meet the following criteria:

• Active membership in the Citrus Memorial Health System Volunteer Auxiliary.
• Demonstrates remarkable concern for the welfare and happiness of hospital patients, staff and other customers of the hospital.
• Performs extraordinary acts of kindness, thereby contributing to the customer service image of the hospital.
• Has a positive effect on others.
• Willingly performs duties, as requested or identified.
• Day-to-day performance is dependable, consistent and people-oriented.

“Dot is always volunteering for special projects,” added Auxiliary President Jack Condron. “It’s not uncommon to find her at the hospital after her regular shift. She regularly helps with flu shots, trains new volunteers and helps decorate for Christmas. She just wants to help others without the expectation of personal gain or reward.”

About the Citrus Memorial Auxiliary

The Citrus Memorial Auxiliary began in 1957 with 26 volunteers who were affectionately called the Pink Ladies.

By 1962, the group had grown to more than 200 volunteers, and began recruiting candy stripers. Today, Citrus Memorial Health System’s volunteers include more than 450 men and women working in locations throughout the county, including Citrus Memorial hospital and Citrus Memorial Healthcare Center at Sugarmill Woods.

For information about volunteering at Citrus Memorial call 560-6298.