This week is National Volunteer Appreciation Week and an opportunity to express the immense gratitude we have for our volunteers who make a difference to our patients and families daily.
Volunteers not only give the gift of time, but also the gifts of compassion, empathy and presence. On any given day, we will see our volunteers spending time with patients, offering support, prayer, and a listening ear. We will see volunteers helping a patient create a last memory with loved ones – attending a wedding (or getting married!), fishing at a pond, going to a basketball game or to the zoo ... whatever that patient’s goal is, our volunteers are here to help make it happen.
Each month, I have the wonderful opportunity to meet brand new volunteers who are joining Hospice of Northwest Ohio. Their life stories, their desire to give back, their personal experiences with hospice, and why they chose to volunteer are inspiring. And many times throughout the year, I get to catch up with those who have volunteered for months or years. To see the same level of excitement, enjoyment and engagement as on their first day is incredibly amazing. They tell me that they are the ones receiving so much more than they give and feel every experience, no matter their role, is fulfilling and rewarding.
To our talented sewers, choir members, musicians, veterans, companions, hands-on, administrative and garden volunteers – adults and teens – THANK YOU for all you do. You are special, appreciated and valued every day!!