United Way’s Ormsbee Robinson award honors Chatham Hospital employees

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SILER CITY — The United Way of Chatham County awarded Chatham Hospital employees with the 2021 Ormsbee Robinson Award — the highest honor given by United Way — last Thursday during an employee appreciation event at Chatham Hospital.

The event also kicked off Chatham Hospital’s annual United Way employee giving campaign.

The Ormsbee Robinson Award honors people who reflect selfless giving and committed service to Chatham County. United Way Board Chair Dr. Jim Sink, who is also a retired surgeon, presented the award.

“From my experience, I understand the physical and mental exhaustion that comes from taking care of sick patients and their anxious families,” Sink said. “And I understand the selflessness of those who risk their health and the health of their families to take care of patients with communicable diseases. There are many noble professions, teachers and clergy come to mind. But, I think those who choose to work in a hospital are right at the top of the list. You come to work each day to help us when we need you.”

Jeff Strickler, CEO of Chatham Hospital, accepted the award.

“We are honored to receive the Ormsbee Robinson award,” Strickler said. “This recognition comes to our staff during a challenging time in healthcare and represents an acknowledgment of their efforts to care for our community. This acknowledgment will make their burden feel a bit lighter.

“Also, thanks so much to United Way of Chatham County for this award but more importantly their continued partnership with Chatham Hospital to meet the needs of our community.”

The Ormsbee Robinson Award includes a $1,000 grant from United Way of Chatham County to the hospital’s agency of choice. Hospital employees who attended the event voted on the agency they believed most deserving of the grant, with the Chatham County Council on Aging receiving the $1,000.

Employees were also treated to Ben & Jerry’s ice cream, from Ice Cream Catering (ICC) Primo Partners LLC, an Independent Franchisee of Ben & Jerry’s.

“The employees of Chatham Hospital have supported United Way and the greater community for many years through an annual giving campaign,” said Katie Childs, Executive Director of United Way of Chatham County. “But during this past year, they enhanced that support by not only being steadfast financial supporters of our work, but by risking their lives to care for the most vulnerable in our community.”

The United Way of Chatham County funds 23 programs managed by its 16 nonprofit agencies that specialize in the education, financial stability and health of Chatham County residents. For more information on the agencies and programs funded by United Way, volunteer opportunities, or to make a donation, visit www.UnitedWayOfChathamCounty.org.