Volunteer of the Year Award winners Kaye and Bill Trivette
(NGHS)

Volunteer of the Year Award winners Kaye and Bill Trivette (NGHS)

Couple receives NGHS Auxiliary Volunteer of the Year award

A husband and wife are winners of this year’s top volunteer award from the Northeast Georgia Health System (NGHS) Auxiliary. 

Kaye and Bill Trivette were presented with the Joan Kosmala Volunteer of the Year Award at the auxiliary’s 75th anniversary Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon. They have served more than 2,800 combined hours in a variety of roles including the NICU, Ronnie Green Heart Center, volunteer shuttle service and the Window Shops.

           This year’s luncheon recognized 183 volunteers who collectively contributed more than 117,000 hours of service, including:

 *   The 2026 Nell Whelchel Wiegand Patient Friend Award which was presented to Lori Luders, a volunteer at Northeast Georgia Medical Center Braselton recognized for her compassionate service and commitment to helping patients, visitors and fellow volunteers feel welcome and supported.

 *   The 2026 Marjorie Covington Smith Auxilian of the Year Award which went to Jan Gorman, a longtime volunteer and life member of the Auxiliary who has served patients and families through roles including Emergency Department Patient Friend, shuttle driver and Mended Hearts visitor.           

“From the very beginning in 1951, the Auxiliary has embodied the spirit of service and generosity,” said Natalie Challen, president of the NGHS Auxiliary. “For 75 years, volunteers have helped create meaningful connections with patients, families and team members while supporting our mission in countless ways. We are proud of that legacy and excited about the future of the Auxiliary.”