Congratulations to Bruce Roosa, CCH
volunteer and winner of one of five
Campbell County Healthcare Foundation
Outstanding Healthcare Awards presented at the Black Cat Ball on September 23, 2017. Here are some excerpts
from Bruce’s nomination letter:
Bruce’s journey toward community service in healthcare began when
his mother became a resident of Pioneer Manor’s
Memory Care Unit several years ago. During his regular visits it just seemed natural to
spend time with the other residents too, and he began to help with resident
activities like woodworking.
Before his mom moved to Pioneer Manor Bruce learned first-hand what it
was like to become a caregiver. There wasn’t a manual to consult
or a book to read on how to do what was nearly a full-time job for Bruce
and his wife Barb. Several years ago Campbell County Health held the first
of several Caregiver Conferences to provide information and support to
local caregivers. Bruce attended these conferences, and then developed
the idea to create an ongoing support group for caregivers in the community. The
Caregiver Support Group holds meetings twice a month at
The Legacy Living and Rehabilitation Center, open to all. Bruce coordinates the group with Janet Kobielusz, and schedules
local experts to speak on all aspects of caregiving. Some meetings are
simply open, opportunities for members to share information and talk to
others facing the same challenges. The Caregiver Support Group is a valuable
community resource that would not exist without Bruce.
Bruce is also a member of The Legacy Advisory Board, another volunteer
group that works to enhance the lives of residents through use of memorial
gifts and fundraising.
The
move of 115 residents from Pioneer Manor to The Legacy in November 2016 was an enormous undertaking
involving over 192 volunteers donating 1,578 hours in total. Bruce helped
with prepping before, during and after the move, which was accomplished
in just one day with the work of CCH employees and all the community volunteers.
Bruce was one of the featured speakers at The Legacy Grand Opening on
October 25, and it was clear from his remarks that while his dedication
to caring for others came from his love for his mother, it has expanded
to respect for the dignity of all the residents and their caregivers,
whoever they may be.
When Bruce is not volunteering for Campbell County Health he enjoys tinkering
with old cars, making custom gear knobs, jogging, visiting his grandchildren
and singing with the
Gillette Chamber Singers.
Bruce embodies the spirit of volunteerism—giving his time for the
opportunity to help others. Thanks Bruce, for all you do!
If you're interested in learning more about volunteering with CCH,
please contact Volunteer Coordinator Chris Buxton at 307.688.1536 or visit
www.cchwyo.org/volunteer.