Hospice of Northwest Ohio was started by a passionate group of volunteers more than 43 years ago. Today, our volunteers play a vital role in enhancing the experiences of our patients and families. We appreciate their compassion and dedication to our mission. In 2023, volunteers contributed more than 5,000 hours toward patient care and support. Their efforts were valued at $159,530. This does not account for the countless additional hours that our 173 adult and 25 teen volunteers spent working in the gardens, sewing comfort pillows and lap quilts, providing administrative support, creating crafts for patients, playing music or representing us at educational events. To celebrate and recognize their contributions, we invited volunteers Marilyn and Deanna to share what motivates them to volunteer.
1. Why do you volunteer for Hospice of Northwest Ohio?
Marilyn: I volunteer for Hospice of Northwest Ohio because I feel drawn to give of my time with care and compassion and show love to someone in need. I feel I make someone else’s day a bit brighter and better and they feel loved.
Deanna: I was a full-time caregiver for my Mom before her passing in January of 2023. We often talked about how hard her passing would be because my life would change so much. During one of those discussions, we talked about volunteering to fill that void and how much of a need there had to be for elderly individuals living out their days in nursing homes. I called Hospice of Northwest Ohio and inquired about their volunteer opportunities and after training, I jumped right in to visit some wonderful individuals in need of companionship and shopping.
2. What is the most fulfilling part about volunteering for Hospice of Northwest Ohio?
Marilyn: I feel I can help where something is truly needed.
Deanna: The joy I see in the faces of those I visit. I love listening to the stories they tell, I love being an extra hand to warm their coffee when it needs to be warmed, refilling water containers, or holding their hands when they seem to be afraid or need a little comfort. I love being able to help bring a little human contact into their days while we color, put puzzles together, or just talk about anything they want to talk about. I also love the opportunity to help a family member when they would like to take a break or run some errands. I am not only filling the void I had after my Mom's passing, but I am also helping fill a void in someone else's life.
3. What do you want others to know about volunteering for Hospice of Northwest Ohio?
Marilyn: The employees of Hospice of Northwest Ohio are the most caring and friendly people. They welcomed me in and I feel part of their family. I love being a volunteer!
Deanna: There is a greater need for volunteers in these facilities than many realize. There are families and individuals in these facilities who have needs and are not aware of the many ways Hospice can provide care and services. Many people think Hospice is only for comfort care during your last days.