By mid-February, most people have abandoned their New Years resolutions, but Hospice of Michigan believes it’s not too late to start something new in 2023. For those looking for opportunities to get more involved in their community, the not-for-profit is seeking compassionate volunteers to help patients and families dealing with life-limiting illnesses throughout Big Rapids and surrounding communities.

 

The not-for-profit has a specific need for area residents who can make a real difference in the lives of others by providing the following services:

 

• Caregiver relief volunteers to allow a caregiver to get away for a few hours and recharge.
• Companionship volunteers, who visit patients living at home or in a facility setting to offer comfort and company.
• Veteran volunteers, who visit patients who are fellow veterans.

 

“Hospice volunteers provide so much more than a social visit – they offer companionship, conversation and comfort during one of life’s most vulnerable times,” said Megan Cadle, volunteer program manager at Hospice of Michigan. “If you’re considering getting involved in your community, I urge you to consider becoming a volunteer with Hospice of Michigan. You never know the impact you can have on someone’s life.”

 

All volunteers are required to complete orientation, background checks and fingerprinting prior to volunteering. Volunteers must also be age 18 or older and have received the COVID-19 vaccine. For those who have experienced a recent loss, Hospice of Michigan requires a waiting period of one year before becoming a hospice volunteer to allow for the processing of grief.

 

Hospice of Michigan volunteers are vital in helping to deliver exceptional, compassionate support to patients and families according to its mission of caring for patients wherever they call home, right in the same community in which its volunteers live.

 

Those interested in volunteering can contact Megan Cadle at 616-356-5233 or mcadle@hom.org to apply to become a volunteer. To learn more about Hospice of Michigan and apply to become a volunteer, visit hom.org/get-involved.