This past year has been a difficult one. We have all had to adjust our lifestyles from work to school to entertainment to protect ourselves and our communities. These changes have been hard on many people. But there are many ways to help and show support for others from the safety of home as a volunteer.
Hospice volunteering is a deeply meaningful experience for many. Motivated by a genuine desire to bring comfort, peace, and care at the end of life, hospice volunteers can have a tremendous impact on the lives of patients and their families.
A new year is a wonderful opportunity to make new choices and try something new. If you’ve been thinking about volunteering more or looking to give back to your community, consider becoming a hospice volunteer in 2020.
Across America, students are returning to school as summer fades to a distant memory. And many of them will be thinking about volunteering this school year. The Corporation for National & Community Service, the federal agency that engages more than five million Americans in volunteer service and grant-making, reported that in 2015, 25.7 percent of college students volunteered, delivering 286 million hours of service with a value of $6.7 billion.
Each May, we observe Older Americans Month. This year’s theme is “Connect, Create, Contribute” which encourages older adults to connect with their community, create vibrant and engaging activities, and contribute by sharing their time, talents, and experience.
When Crossroads Hospice & Palliative Care Volunteer Marie Simpson enters a room at a senior living facility with golden retriever Kylie, the dog immediately gravitates to the individual that she senses needs her the most. She’ll sit right next to the person, just being there with patience and a remarkable sensitivity.
