Led by committee co-chairs, Linda Franz and Wenda Shereos, the Open Arms Free Clinic’s annual volunteer appreciation event was a celebration like no other, according to organizers.
The July 21, in-person gathering of board members, volunteers and staff elevated the spirit of Open Arms to a new level, according to executive director Sara Nichols. With donations from the Lumen Christi parish community in honor of Open Arms founder, the Rev. Dan Sanders, a gazebo was built by New Leaf Construction this spring and was the center of the event.
Described as the new outdoor healing space, the gazebo was inspired by volunteers who were meeting with patients outside for their modified health care appointments during the pandemic. Blessed by Sanders, the gazebo was filled with music by Frank Whiting, food by Annie’s Burgertown Catering and beverages by Lake Geneva Country Meats, Nichols said.
She said a special shout-out took place at the event for the following volunteers:
- 1000 hours: Rose Clowes, nurse; Maria Dondiego, interpreter; Dr. Bob Fasano, provider; Kathy McLaughlin, committee; and, Donna Neshek, nurse.
- 500 hours: Pam Christensen, advocate; Dottie Lock, lab technician; Peg Pollitt, finance; and, Harry Sailer, interpreter.
Nichols said also deserving recognition are two people who reached the 2,000-hour mark: Bill Clark, pharmacist; and Gretchen Geist, nurse practitioner.
A little known fact that helps prove not only the need for volunteers but also just how dedicated the Open Arms group is – there have been over 7,000 hours donated already just this year, representatives said.
“Volunteers are the pillar of our mission, and we appreciate their open hearts, open minds, and open arms,” Nichols said. “What a blessing to have such committed help.”
Open Arms is the first and only volunteer-driven medical and supportive care clinic in Walworth County serving low-income and uninsured residents with primary medical, dental, vision, behavioral health, lab, and pharmaceutical assistance. The clinic derives all its operating income solely from private donations, foundations, grants, and fundraising events.
Open Arms Free Clinic is at 205 E. Commerce Ct, Elkhorn. For more information, visit openarmsfreeclinic.org.
Those interested in learning more about volunteering are asked to visit the website, click on “Ways to Help,” scroll down and in the Volunteering section, select “Apply now” for a link to the application.
The website also contains a link to a current wish list that will take those wanting to donate to the clinic’s page on Amazon. From there, items can be added to a cart and purchased and they’ll be delivered directly to Open Arms Free Clinic.
