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Three individuals were awarded the “Star Volunteer of the Year” award at Crossing Rivers Health's annual Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon on April 26 as a part of National Volunteer Week! This year Crossing Rivers Health recognized Rita Kazda, Paul Ginkel, and Mike Larsen for their amazing volunteer work and dedication.

Star Volunteer of Joy:

Rita has served with the Partners of Crossing Rivers Health for over 28 years. During that time, she has consistently served on the Partners Board, volunteered at community events like blood drives and Christmas Right Here, worked in Jerry’s Gift Shoppe, attended volunteer conventions and advocacy events, and served on many Partners committees. In every new role, Rita brings a contagiously positive spirit. She tackles new projects with a smile and a can-do attitude that makes working with her a true joy.

“I love the joy that Rita has for everyone she sees when they come into Jerry’s Gift Shoppe. She is always sure to ask you about your day and find a way to connect. Thank you, Rita, for always being a smiling face!”

• Rita’s Nominator

Star Volunteer of Unity:

Paul is a great representative of our value of unity. As a past member of the Crossing Rivers Health Board of Directors and the Crossing Rivers Health Foundation, he was one of the decision-makers and served as the President of the Prairie du Chien Memorial Hospital Association, Inc. when it was decided to build a new medical center. He served on the board during the organization’s rebrand to Crossing Rivers Health and when the critical access hospital entered into the primary care service, acquiring the Great River Clinic practice, owned by Doctors Mark & Ann Grunwald, and eventually built the first clinic on the new medical center site. Paul assisted the Foundation with the first-ever capital campaign, which raised $1.2M in community support for the Crossing Rivers Health facility. Paul has served on many committees, acted as Foundation Board Treasurer, represented our organization at a state and national level as a member of the hospital board, and was instrumental in the planning of the recently completed history wall project.

“Paul is passionate about community and economic development and rural healthcare. He remains connected to the organization’s employees and often visits with them to listen and show appreciation for the work they do.”

• Paul’s Nominator

Star Volunteer of Compassion:

Mike Larsen has served with the Hospice Department for over 15 years. In addition to patient visits where he spends quality time with patients and their families, as well as performing Reiki, he has taken on additional responsibilities that call for added compassion. In particular, Mike has worked with the Hospice Bereavement Program, calling family members to talk to them about how they are managing after the death of a loved one. The Bereavement Program requires additional training and care with families. Mike consistently brings a compassionate and soothing presence to grieving families.

“Mike has grown into his role in the bereavement program and often talks about how much he enjoys talking and listening to family members talk about their loved ones. He has a calm and sensitive demeanor that fits this role perfectly. Mike has been consistently coming into the department to make these phone calls since the pandemic and we appreciate his dedication to

Hospice and our families.”

• Mike’s Nominator

Many other volunteers were recognized for their service and contributions to Crossing Rivers Health and their community, with dozens of thank-you notes from staff members being shared at the ceremony. Volunteers at Crossing Rivers Heath play a vital role in fundraising, Hospice care, community health education, and healthcare advocacy. Their work is invaluable and greatly appreciated.