National Nurses’ Week, typically celebrated May 6-12, has been expanded to National Nurses Month, a decision made by the American Nurses Association. National Women in Roofing (NWiR) Wheeling Council, a new local organization, has collaborated with several sponsors to honor some of Wheeling’s healthcare workers.
“Nurses Month is personal for us, as we both have family members in the healthcare field and see how COIVD-19 has been more intense than a “normal” day,” said Stephanie Barry, NWiR Wheeling Council Co-Chair. “We wanted to show that the community appreciated the harder, longer days and the sacrifices healthcare workers are making for us and our community.”
National Women in Roofing (NWiR) is a volunteer-based organization that supports and advances the careers of women roofing professionals. They provide networking, mentoring, education, and recruitment opportunities to empower women in roofing, and to contribute to the overall betterment and professionalism of the roofing industry.
“Stephanie and I started the Wheeling Council because we are both passionate about our industry and helping others,” said Shawnda Burgess, NWiR Wheeling Council Co-Chair. “This organization is a way for us to work with women in roofing, and to encourage each other to make a positive impact within the industry.”
Thanks to donations from Kalkreuth Roofing and Sheet Metal, East Coast Metal Systems, American Plate Glass, Belmont County Salvation Army, Dawes Welding, Kennedy Hardware, Specialty Supply, and 84 Lumber, NWiR Wheeling Council was able to provide over 300 Wheeling Hospital healthcare workers at with goodies to show their appreciation and support.
“As one of the nurses on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic, it humbles me to see the support given to us by the community. In my 30 years of nursing, I have never experienced anything like this. This pandemic has changed the entire world and affects each of us,” said Cara Gompers, MSN/Ed., RN, CEN, NREMT, Director of Women’s and Children’s Services. “It inspires me to see how so many people have found a way to help, in their own way, from making masks, to donating meals, and supporting small businesses. The generosity of the community and the National Women in Roofing is much appreciated.”