More than 80 people attended.

“We are blessed to have 79 great volunteers at Trinity Regional Medical Center,” said Leah Glasgo, market president of UnityPoint Health — Fort Dodge. “No matter how busy life gets, these individuals are always here, dedicated to helping our patients, visitors and team members.”

In 2025, volunteers spent more than 11,700 hours assisting patients and visitors, which is equivalent to about six full-time employees. Volunteers assist patients to their destinations, and can be found in a variety of areas of the hospital.

“Whether it’s offering a warm welcome, lending a listening ear, supporting our teams behind the scenes or stepping forward wherever help is needed, their presence matters more than they may ever realize,” said Alison Hanna, manager of volunteer and guest services. “Our volunteers choose to give their time, energy and compassion in service to others and that choice makes a meaningful difference.”

-Submitted photo
Alison Hanna, manager of volunteer and guest services at UnityPoint Health — Trinity Regional Medical Center, addresses the group during Wednesday’s Volunteer Recognition and Appreciation Dinner.

One volunteer initiative that has brought a sense of normalcy to patients and visitors and helped them feel better and less lonely is the pet therapy program. Trinity Regional Medical Center currently has five dogs certified for pet therapy who visited more than 2,000 people in the hospital during 2025.