Hennis earns regional Red Cross award

VW Red Cross information

MAUMEE — A strong supporter of the Van Wert County Chapter of the American Red Cross was recently honored at the regional level for her work with hospital volunteers.

American Red Cross volunteer Carol Hennis received the Clara Barton Award at the annual meeting of the American Red Cross of Northwest Ohio. The event was held September 18 in Maumee. In June, Hennis received the Clara Barton Award at the Van Wert Red Cross chapter level.

Hennis was the only volunteer in the Northwest Ohio Region to receive the award, which honors a volunteer who has made a measureable impact on the American Red Cross, community and people served by the Red Cross.

In her role as volunteer coordinator for Red Cross volunteers at Van Wert County Hospital, Hennis brings new volunteers on board, conducts training and orientation for the volunteers and coordinates for the overall operation of the volunteer program on a daily basis. Under her leadership, there are more than 44 volunteers in the program.

“Carol has a unique role as far as Red Cross is concerned. We are one of the few chapters who have a program such as this. She is a wonderful asset to the American Red Cross,” said Van Wert Red Cross Community Chapter Executive Sandy Lane. “Carol is very thorough and concise. She strictly adheres to the guidelines and makes sure her volunteers understand what is expected from them.

“Last year, she developed a youth program in which three college students were able to ‘shadow’ doctors and volunteer in different areas of the hospital,” Lane added. “This was a tremendous opportunity that was made possible because of her forward thinking. We appreciate her service to our organization.”

For her part, Hennis says: “I am very grateful to receive an award of this caliber. Left me speechless.”

Amy Rode, director of patient and community relations at Van Wert County Hospital, noted that Hennis was an invaluable member of the Van Wert County Hospital Team.

“She is a wonderful example of the many volunteers who give their times and talents to benefit our patients,” Rode noted. “We truly appreciate Carol’s generosity and service. Her dedication is an inspiration to us all.”