Volunteerism Today
Women’s groups, by direct work or indirect influence, have helped to secure better schools, family allowances, old age security, better hospitals, such as the Women’s College.
Mary Quayle Innis, dean of women, University College,
University of Toronto, June 2, 1955.
Women’s College Hospital volunteer with a newborn baby.
The Cradle Club is remembered as one of the earliest volunteer groups at Women’s College Hospital. Many fondly think back to the charming fundraising dances and teas organized by its members – some of whom were the most recognizable society girls of Toronto. These young women dedicated much of their young adulthood to helping their community.
Before the days of the professional fundraisers who now dominate the charitable sector, women’s volunteers groups, like the Cradle Club made a real difference in society through fundraising and good works. From furnishing and equipping nurseries, maternity wards and delivery rooms, to knitting and sewing for newborns, the Cradle Club was dedicated to improving the quality of women’s healthcare in Toronto.
Although volunteerism has changed over time, it still plays an important role at the Hospital and in society as a whole.
In 2016, Women’s College Hospital had more than two hundred volunteers, providing 29,000 hours of service in over forty-five departments and programs. In the spirit of the Cradle Club, volunteers at Women’s College Hospital remain committed to improving the quality of women’s healthcare through their passion, dedication and service.
