September 2017 Volunteer Spotlight: Bruce Roosa

Congratulations to Bruce Roosa, CCH volunteer and winner of one of five Campbell County Healthcare Foundation Outstanding Healthcare Awards presented at the Black Cat Ball on September 23, 2017. Here are some excerpts from Bruce’s nomination letter:

Bruce’s journey toward community service in healthcare began when his mother became a resident of Pioneer Manor’s Memory Care Unit several years ago. During his regular visits it just seemed natural to spend time with the other residents too, and he began to help with resident activities like woodworking.

Before his mom moved to Pioneer Manor Bruce learned first-hand what it was like to become a caregiver. There wasn’t a manual to consult or a book to read on how to do what was nearly a full-time job for Bruce and his wife Barb. Several years ago Campbell County Health held the first of several Caregiver Conferences to provide information and support to local caregivers. Bruce attended these conferences, and then developed the idea to create an ongoing support group for caregivers in the community. The Caregiver Support Group holds meetings twice a month at The Legacy Living and Rehabilitation Center, open to all. Bruce coordinates the group with Janet Kobielusz, and schedules local experts to speak on all aspects of caregiving. Some meetings are simply open, opportunities for members to share information and talk to others facing the same challenges. The Caregiver Support Group is a valuable community resource that would not exist without Bruce.

Bruce is also a member of The Legacy Advisory Board, another volunteer group that works to enhance the lives of residents through use of memorial gifts and fundraising.

The move of 115 residents from Pioneer Manor to The Legacy in November 2016 was an enormous undertaking involving over 192 volunteers donating 1,578 hours in total. Bruce helped with prepping before, during and after the move, which was accomplished in just one day with the work of CCH employees and all the community volunteers. Bruce was one of the featured speakers at The Legacy Grand Opening on October 25, and it was clear from his remarks that while his dedication to caring for others came from his love for his mother, it has expanded to respect for the dignity of all the residents and their caregivers, whoever they may be.

When Bruce is not volunteering for Campbell County Health he enjoys tinkering with old cars, making custom gear knobs, jogging, visiting his grandchildren and singing with the Gillette Chamber Singers.

Bruce embodies the spirit of volunteerism—giving his time for the opportunity to help others. Thanks Bruce, for all you do!

If you're interested in learning more about volunteering with CCH, please contact Volunteer Coordinator Chris Buxton at 307.688.1536 or visit www.cchwyo.org/volunteer.