POTSDAM -- Lorraine Cheney has been named Canton-Potsdam Hospital’s Volunteer of the Year.

Lyndsay Macagg, Volunteer Services Coordinator, presented her the award recently during the Hospital’s annual Volunteer Recognition Dinner.

Approximately 60 volunteers from all areas of the hospital gathered to see Mrs. Cheney receive the award, which recognizes extraordinary service to patients and their families. Mrs. Cheney has served as a volunteer with CPH since 2005.

“Lorraine is a familiar, comforting presence as a regular greeter in our front lobby,” said David B. Acker, President and CEO of CPH. “She is there rain or shine to welcome our patients and their families and to assist them to find the services they need. She is always smiling and calm, even during times of crisis for families. Our community is a better place because of volunteers like Lorraine,” Mr. Acker said.

Acker noted other contributions made by volunteers: the gift shop, which is managed and run entirely by volunteers; special projects completed by volunteer interns from the local colleges and high schools; and the Hospital’s all-volunteer Board of Directors and Foundation Board of Directors.

“Volunteers are the lifeblood of our Hospital and community,” Mr. Acker said. “We owe them a debt of gratitude for their spirit of selfless service to others, especially to patients and families in need.”

The Volunteer Services Department at Canton-Potsdam Hospital recruits, screens, and places community members from all walks of life, ages 14 to Senior Citizens and beyond, in service assignments throughout the Hospital. In 2010, volunteers dedicated over 10,000 hours of service to the Hospital. Many volunteers also serve other organizations in the community.

For more information about volunteer opportunities at Canton-Potsdam Hospital, interested individuals should contact Lyndsay Macagg, Volunteer Services Coordinator, at 315-261-5413 or visit www.cphospital.org.