Recreation team

Carolyn Rein, Roz Lizarda-Alvarez, Nadeeya Musah, April Schmidtke, Jenny Kwan, Leanne Erickson

At St. Joseph’s Auxiliary Hospital, the recreation team isn’t just organizing activities — they are building connections, enriching lives and fostering a strong sense of community. Their ability to collaborate across teams, departments and external organizations creates opportunities that bring joy, comfort and engagement to residents.

With over 2,777 volunteer hours dedicated to recreation, their commitment to teamwork is evident. They work closely with volunteer services, ensuring seamless communication and coordination, particularly during outbreaks when there are safety protocols to share. Their support extends beyond recreation, as they collaborate with spiritual care and volunteer visiting programs to connect residents with meaningful companionship.

Their teamwork has been instrumental in launching and sustaining innovative programs. For more than a decade, they have helped facilitate the men’s group program and, in 2024, continued to support volunteer-led initiatives such as creative arts Wednesdays. Even when scheduling conflicts arise, the recreation team ensures all activities run smoothly by strategically dividing resources and staff, ensuring no resident is left out.

Their impact reaches beyond hospital walls. The team has played a key role in bringing new performances and therapeutic music programs to the site, including U of A’s therapeutic music team and local artists whose work enhances the environment. They also helped establish the baby visiting program, which has brought warmth and companionship to residents since 2020. They do a fantastic job of planning engaging, interactive activities for residents all year.