Alamosa Elementary Students Donate to SLV Health
On Thursday, January 29, Alamosa Elementary’s fifth-grade Mini Moose Crew students, accompanied by sponsors Wendi Wiedeman and Shauna Rothermich, visited SLV Health with full hearts and a generous donation of $107.38. Their visit was not just about giving money, but about sharing hope, compassion, and a sense of community that shines brightly in even the youngest among us.
The Mini Moose Crew
Each year, the Mini Moose Crew welcomes fourth graders by sharing heartfelt stories about what it means to be part of a group that cares for others. As they listen, younger students are inspired to step up as leaders and role models, carrying forward the spirit of kindness and service. Those interested in completing applications should express not just their qualifications but also their desire to make a difference.
Throughout the year, Mini Moose Crew members gather each month, not just to plan projects but also to dream up ways to lift one another and their community. One special project, the "Pennies for Patients" fundraiser, encouraged every student to give what they could. No gift was too small; every cent carried a wish for hope and healing. This year, the Crew chose SLV Health Hospital as the beneficiary, supporting the Stephanie L. Miner Imaging Center. Their donation is heartfelt and helps bring advanced, life-saving breast imaging services to families across the San Luis Valley.
Saving Lives
Access to 3-D mammography and expanded biopsy capabilities means women in the Valley can receive high-quality screenings and diagnostics close to home. For many, this means peace of mind and the comfort of knowing they are cared for by neighbors and friends. Early detection saves lives, and access to these services locally ensures that hope and healing stay close to home.
The Mini Moose Crew’s donation is a heartfelt reminder that even the smallest acts of kindness can create ripples of change. Their support, given with genuine care, directly helps SLV Health provide state-of-the-art breast care for women and families in the region.
Learning About Healthcare Careers
During their visit, various SLV Health staff members gave presentations showcasing the wide range of jobs required to keep the hospital running smoothly.
Margaret White, Director of Quality and Safety, engaged with Alamosa Elementary students to discuss the wide variety of career opportunities in healthcare and the important role quality and safety play in supporting patients and staff.
One of the presenters included Margaret White, RN, BSN, MSHA, CPHQ (Director of Quality & Safety). The students listened as she explained what her position entails and the various jobs nurses can do. “Nurses can work in many different places, not just hospitals. They can teach in schools, work with judges and lawyers, or even start in billing services, collecting payment for services,” she stated.
Margaret answered multiple questions from the students. One student asked what she liked about her job, and she said she enjoyed helping people.
Several other presenters also spoke to the students about their respective roles. They answered students’ questions, including Brent Lehto (Director of Laboratory Services), Adam Daniels (EMS Manager), Erin Guymon (Controller), Thomas Masterson (Director of Revenue Cycle), Cindy Bradley (Imaging Supervisor), Lacrecia Smith (Care Coordination Education Specialist), Felicia Garcia (Discharge Planner), Margarita Cortez (Care Coordinator), and Alexis Richardson (Discharge Planner).
Brent Lehto, Director of Laboratory Services, is teaching the children about Laboratory Services at the hospital, offering them an inside look at how this essential department operates and supports patient care.
Students asked thoughtful questions and learned that SLV Health is the largest employer in Alamosa and offers a variety of positions beyond doctors and nurses.
Janet McGinnis, BSRS, ARRT ®(M)(CT)(MRI), shared, “Pennies truly add up to hope. When our youngest community members give from their hearts, they help us bring lifesaving breast imaging and care close to home for the women of the San Luis Valley.”
In the end, the Mini Moose Crew’s visit to SLV Health was more than an act of generosity. It was a testament to the power of young people to inspire hope and unity. Their kindness is a reminder that when a community comes together, each contribution, no matter how small, helps build a brighter, healthier future for all. Through their actions, these students have shown that compassion and caring can start early, and families across the San Luis Valley will feel their impact for years to come.