The Massachusetts General Hospital Volunteer Department presents pins and awards to volunteers in recognition of the hours and commitment they give to our patients, families and visitors.

The Volunteer Service Pin

Volunteer service pins are awarded annually to volunteers by Massachusetts General Hospital in honor of the hard work and dedication of the many hours of service donated to the hospital. Service pins are presented for 100, 500 and 1,000 service hours and increments of 1,000 up to 10,000 hours. Special pins are awarded to volunteers who reach extraordinary levels of 10,000 plus hours.

Annual Awards

These awards are presented annually to volunteers by Massachusetts General Hospital in honor of outstanding service to patients, service longevity, and future contribution to the healthcare field. Each year a recognition event is held to celebrate these volunteers and the department/Mass General staff. Below are the categories and description of each award.

The Jessie Harding Award

Award(s) are presented each year to one or more outstanding Mass General volunteer. It’s the highest honor a volunteer can receive. Because of its significance and the history behind it, this is the most coveted award. The award is named for an original member-a volunteer-of the ‘Red Basket Messenger Service,’ which was launched at MGH in 1941 during World War II when the hospital experienced a reduction in its staff. Each year the Jessie Harding Award is presented to the most outstanding MGH volunteer who has demonstrated unselfish and generous service to our patients and their families.

The Maeve Blackman Award

Award(s) are presented each year to one or more college student who is volunteering at Mass General. The nominee must be someone who will continue his/her education in the health care field. This award honors the philosophy of Maeve Blackman, former Director of the Mass General Volunteer Department, who helped students interested in medicine better understand patient-focused care.

The Pat Rowell Award

Award(s) are presented each year to one or more volunteer who demonstrates an understanding of the helping culture of the Volunteer Department and who exhibits dedication and perseverance through longevity of service. This award honors the philosophy of Pat Rowell, former Director of the Mass General Volunteer Department, who with a gentle nature and steadfast guidance cultivated one of the most dedicated and caring volunteer service forces in the country. The volunteer should demonstrate service experience that “goes beyond expectations.”

The Trustees Award

The Trustees Award is presented each year to a Mass General department or staff member in celebration of their extraordinary efforts to involve, support and recognize Mass General volunteers and make great efforts to collaborate with the Volunteer Department.