MRHA Celebrates Volunteers During National Volunteer Week
April 24, 2026
Almonte, ON – The Mississippi
River Health Alliance (MRHA) celebrated the exceptional contributions of its
volunteers at its Annual Volunteer Appreciation Event on the morning of April
23, 2026, at Almonte General Hospital — one of several events taking place
across Canada as part of National
Volunteer Week (April 19–25, 2026).
Volunteers from Almonte
General Hospital, Carleton Place & District Memorial Hospital, and Fairview
Manor gathered to be recognized for the time, compassion, and commitment they
bring to patients, residents, families, staff, and medical staff across the
organization every day.
This year’s event carried
added significance, coinciding with Almonte General Hospital’s 65th
anniversary. Historical photographs and a “Gratitude Wall” — filled with
messages of thanks from staff, patients, and residents — served as a powerful
reminder of the lasting, generational impact volunteers have had on care in
this community.
“Volunteers are an essential
part of how we care for our patients and residents,” said Brad Harrington,
President and CEO of the Mississippi River Health Alliance. “They bring
compassion, connection, and humanity into our hospitals and long-term care home
every day and their impact is felt not only by those receiving care, but by the
staff and medical staff who work alongside them.”
Across the MRHA, volunteers
contribute in a wide range of roles: greeting patients and families at front
entrances, supporting clinical areas, working in the gift shop, spending time
with residents, and helping create a welcoming environment for everyone who
walks through our doors.
This year’s National
Volunteer Week theme, Ignite Volunteerism, recognizes the vital role civic
participation plays in strengthening communities — a message that resonates
deeply across the MRHA’s four organizations and the rural communities they
serve.
“Whether it’s offering a warm
welcome, spending time with a resident, or supporting a busy unit, volunteers
make a meaningful difference in the day-to-day experience of care,” said Kelly
Bowles, Recreation Therapist and Volunteer Coordinator. “Their presence brings
comfort, connection, and a sense of community that cannot be replaced.”
The MRHA extends its deepest
thanks to all volunteers — past and present — for their dedication, generosity,
and service to communities across Lanark County.
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Media Contact:
Caitlin O’Hara, Communications Lead
Mississippi River Health Alliance
613-621-9638
caohara@mrha.ca
About the Mississippi River Health
Alliance (MRHA)
The Mississippi River Health Alliance (MRHA) was
formed in 2016 to formalize and strengthen collaboration between the Almonte
General Hospital Corporation—which includes Almonte General Hospital (AGH),
Fairview Manor (FVM), and the Lanark County Paramedic Service (LCPS)—and the
Carleton Place & District Memorial Hospital Corporation (CPDMH). This
partnership delivers seamless, high-quality healthcare that addresses the
evolving needs of local communities. Together, the MRHA is building an
integrated healthcare system that provides comprehensive care close to home,
enhancing access and improving health outcomes throughout the region. For more
information visit MRHA.ca.