GVH 10th Annual Pumpkin Patch Brings Together Families, Fun, and Creates Community Connection

Gunnison Valley Health (GVH) recently welcomed families from across the valley to its 10th anniversary Pumpkin Patch, a free community event designed to celebrate the season and strengthen local connections. 

With crisp fall air and bright orange pumpkins lining the North lawn, more than 550 pumpkins found new homes as children and families enjoyed games, crafts and fall treats. Across the GVH campus, departments from throughout the health system came together to create an afternoon full of fun. 

This year featured activity stations hosted by Gunnison Valley Orthopedics doing bone toss, Behavioral Health with a friendly cornhole challenge, the Family Medicine Clinic’s Carnival Games, Emergency Medical Services with its popular “touch-a-truck,” and Nursing's fairy wand decorating station. Community members also enjoyed pumpkin decorating, face painting, photo opportunities with 10ft tall Halloween displays, cookies and apple cider. 

What made the day truly special was the teamwork behind it. Volunteers represented every corner of GVH, from health care providers and medical assistants to administrative staff, schedulers, department directors, and more. Both the Patient Navigation and Human Resources teams were on hand, engaging in meaningful conversations with community members about resources, services, and career opportunities. 

“The Pumpkin Patch has become one of our favorite GVH community traditions,” said Erica Rasmussen, Marketing and Communication Director at Gunnison Valley Health. “It’s a special opportunity for our staff to connect with families outside of a care setting and celebrate what makes this valley so unique. All of us at GVH live, work, and raise families here. We’re part of this community and invested in it's success. Seeing our teams take time on a Saturday morning to be there with our friends and loved ones is a wonderful thing. To come together for something joyful here on the hospital grounds. Events like this remind us that connection and care always go hand in hand.” 

As a rural health system, GVH’s mission extends beyond delivering exceptional care, it’s about being an active, approachable presence in the Gunnison Valley. Events like the Pumpkin Patch highlight that commitment to bringing people together to celebrate the health, happiness, and spirit of this community we’re proud to serve.