Paris Hospital Volunteers Sell Chocolate to Fund Scholarships

Sweet treats are funding big dreams at a small-town Illinois hospital, where volunteers believe in investing in people who care.

The PCH Volunteers at Horizon Health in Paris, Illinois are hosting their annual chocolate sale this Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Gourmet chocolates, sugar-free options, mixed nuts, and gummies will fill tables at the hospital's main campus, with both cash and cards accepted.

But this isn't just about satisfying sweet cravings. Every purchase helps fund scholarships for students pursuing healthcare careers and current hospital employees looking to advance their education.

"The chocolate sale is a vital part of our commitment to raise funds to supply scholarships for a couple of students," said Linda Lane, vice president of PCH Volunteers. The group typically awards one scholarship to a hospital employee and another to a graduating student entering the medical field.

The chocolate sale represents just one way these dedicated community members support their local hospital. About 30 volunteers keep Horizon Health running smoothly throughout the year, staffing the gift shop, assisting in surgery, and sorting mail for patients and families.

The Ripple Effect

These volunteers understand something powerful: small acts of service create waves of change. By giving a few hours each week, they're not just helping patients today. They're building tomorrow's healthcare workforce, one scholarship at a time.

When volunteers invest in education, they're betting on a future where more caring professionals choose to serve their communities. The students and employees who receive these scholarships will go on to care for thousands of patients throughout their careers, multiplying the impact of every chocolate bar sold.

Paris may be a small town, but its volunteers are dreaming big about the difference they can make.