LaVerne White has been a familiar and friendly face at Mackay Base Hospital for 31 years.
Her welcoming smile and cheery hello from the information desk has greeted thousands of staff, patients and hospital visitors for more than three decades.
Not only does LaVerne volunteer on the desk she co-ordinates the roster for other information desk volunteers and ensures the service runs smoothy.
She received several nominations for the award, with one saying she always went above and beyond to ensure the service was always available.
“LaVerne always goes out of her way to make sure her team of volunteers are available to help make visiting the hospital as easy and as pleasurable as possible.
“If someone isn’t able to attend a shift, LaVerne will cover for them. She does all the rosters and is constantly thinking of ways to help them provide an even better service.
“She has been a volunteer for many years and takes great pride in the service she gives.”
Another colleague described LaVerne as an asset to the hospital for her passionate work.
“Her contributions to Mackay Base Hospital and the Foundation are outstanding.
“LaVerne has been actively involved in many areas of volunteering including playgroup in the Children’s Ward and the patient shopping trolley service.
“LaVerne has been instrumental in highlighting volunteers’ services and promoting the visibility of the Foundations volunteer program to attract new volunteers and ensure a positive and rewarding volunteering experience for her fellow volunteers.
“She demonstrates extraordinary commitment and professionalism and epitomises the values of service, fun, teamwork, integrity and compassion.”
