HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hospice and Homecare of Reno County is joining organizations nationwide April 19 to 25 in observance of National Volunteer Week. Special recognition will be given to dedicated volunteers from the community who provide support, companionship and hope to patients and families facing serious and life-limiting illness.
Micki Wilson, volunteer coordinator for Hospice and Homecare of Reno County had special thanks for the volunteers. “Even though we can't celebrate our wonderful volunteers with an annual luncheon due to the COVID-19 crisis, we want them to know how much we treasure them,” Wilson said.
“During these unprecedented times, we have volunteers helping,” Wilson continued. “As examples, Mike O'Neal and Julie Grieman are assembling admission packets at the Hospice office. Linda Strawn and Rita Connell have been making cloth face masks for staff, patients and caregivers. Shirley Alpers has prepared bereavement mailings. Lott Metzler, Judy Graber and Barb Balman are assisting at Hospice House with screening visitors. David Bronke and Janet Bower continue to help with patient care at Hospice House.”
Wilson said more than 90 trained volunteers are working with Hospice and Homecare of Reno County giving selflessly to help people live as fully as possible, even at the end of life. “Our community is a better and more compassionate place because of their service,” Wilson said.
“During 2019, volunteers compiled 1,500 plus hours of volunteer service. Four volunteers have given their time for more than 20 years.”
Hospice volunteers often serve patients and families at the bedside, but they also assist in the office, reception desk at Hospice House, provide fundraising support and perform other duties and responsibilities. Many Hospice volunteers choose to give their time helping others because of their own experience with the compassionate care Hospice provided to a dying loved one.
Heather French Henry, a former Miss America, in a recent speech summed up the goal of all volunteers. “Volunteering is at the very core of being a human,” Henry said. “No one has ever made it through life without someone’s help.”
For those interested in learning more about Hospice or volunteer opportunities, please visit HospiceRenoCounty.com or call 620-665-2473.