Hospice of Michigan is seeking veteran volunteers in and around the Big Rapids community to pair with patients who have a military background. 

Veterans who volunteer with hospice patients have the unique ability to relate and connect with other veterans at a critical time in life due to shared military training or history. Specific volunteer responsibilities can include one-on-one visits with patients, and assistance during individual and community pinning ceremonies. 

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

 “Our veteran volunteers are an integral part of our organization,” says Lauren Becker-Barkman, volunteer program manager at Hospice of Michigan. “Whether it’s providing companionship or sharing stories of their memories of serving our country, the hours dedicated by our veteran volunteers to Hospice of Michigan families can be one of the most rewarding experience of their lives. We are truly grateful to each of our volunteers and the efforts they make to help others feel comfort and companionship.”  

Volunteers do not need any type of training or previous volunteer experience. All volunteers are required to complete orientation, background checks and fingerprinting prior to volunteering. Volunteers must also be age 18 or older. 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. 

Those interested in volunteering can contact Lauren Becker-Barkman at 616-250-9110 or lbecker-barkman@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.