Winthrop-University Hospital recently honored Garden City resident Kathleen Mullins as the Hospital's Auxilian of the Year.

Mullins came to understand the benefits of volunteering early in life when her mother and father, a Methodist minister, devoted free time to help their local hospital. Mullins continued her family's passion for volunteering when she joined Winthrop's Auxiliary 10 years ago.

As a former accountant, her professional skills have proven to be a valuable asset to the organization. Six years running she's helped with the treasury position for Twigs, a branch of the Auxiliary, and the Auxiliary's Golden Goose House Tour events.

As a mother of three children, Ryan (19), Caitlin (16) and Erin (12), Mullins has shared a lot with the other Auxilians, many of whom are also moms.

"The group has very nice people, who are very generous with their time and talents," she explained. "As moms, we have gotten very involved with the pediatrics projects because we felt a closer connection. Because I have friends with children-who have been hospitalized at Winthrop-I have seen how meaningful the Pediatrics Program is and how it benefits the community, what it means to people."

While being recognized as the 2005 Auxilian of the Year is a tremendous honor to Mullins, she is more in awe of the work of other hospital volunteers. It amazes her how many hours of service each volunteer has tallied during his/her time at Winthrop.

"People don't realize how much they give. I know how much it means to all of them," she said. "They have a purpose; their time and talents are needed. They serve such an important role. We are very lucky to have people like that."

Mullins' daughter, Caitlin, is involved with her high school's Twigs group, an organization associated with the Hospital's Auxiliary. Her son volunteered at Winthrop and her other daughter looks forward to helping her mother at the annual Golden Goose event. The volunteer bug continues running strong in the Mullins family.

"They were so excited when they heard of my recognition," Mullins continued. "They are so proud because they know how many people are involved and what it takes."