Yellowknife (May 07/03) - You may not know it but volunteers are behind almost every creature comfort Stanton Territorial Hospital has to offer.

It can be as simple as singing a song, fluffing a pillow or reading a book but the more than 30 volunteers and Stanton Hospital Auxiliary members work every day to make life better for patients.

And last week Stanton staff honoured the volunteers for their contributions with flowers at the annual Volunteer Recognition Soiree.

Auxiliary member Margaret Purdy has been volunteering at the gift shop for more than 14 years.

The gift shop is one of many fundraising sources the auxiliary manages.

They use the money to purchase hospital comforts like chairs, toys, blankets and to redecorate rooms.

"When you volunteer you get more out of it then you put into it," said Purdy.

"We're very appreciative," said Sharon Cook, director of patient care services, during the brief ceremony.

"Our patients certainly benefit from your efforts."

Volunteers contribute so much to the hospital that the authority is taking a pro-active approach to volunteer recruitment.

Three months ago Marie Kelly was hired into the new language and volunteer services coordinator position.

Kelly organized the tea and is presently finding new ways to encourage volunteerism.

For more information contact Stanton Territorial Hospital.