The Heart of HopeWest Meeker: Celebrating Our Volunteer Family

Throughout Volunteer Appreciation Month in April, we celebrate the remarkable individuals who are the soul of HopeWest Meeker. Their compassion and dedication shine brightly, fueling our mission as they support families navigating the challenges of aging, illness, and grief. 

HopeWest Meeker began ten years ago through a county-wide effort to bring palliative care services to the area, helping to ensure that no one faces their journey with serious illness alone. As a nonprofit organization, we’ve been privileged to provide comfort and support to more than 160 families throughout the region, providing pain and symptom management to those facing serious illness, and a gentle hand to hold for those experiencing grief. 

“Our volunteers are the heart of our programs,” says Diana Jones, her voice filled with appreciation. “They offer companionship, a chance for overwhelmed families to breathe, and the emotional support that makes the most difficult moments a little easier to bear.” 

One such volunteer is Billy Goedert, a valued member of the HopeWest Meeker Advisory Board. Billy’s passion for HopeWest was ignited by a simple desire: to help those facing serious illness. When the chance arose to be involved with the development of an equine therapy program for HopeWest Kids, he jumped at it. The result? A beautiful indoor arena where grieving children can find solace and connection through interaction with horses. 

Billy’s story embodies the spirit that makes HopeWest Meeker so special. It’s a spirit fueled by a community that cares deeply. Our team, donors, and volunteers – each play a vital role. Every act of kindness, big or small, ensures that no one in Meeker faces life’s toughest challenges alone. As Billy says so eloquently, “If it wasn’t for our Meeker community who puts so much into HopeWest, we just couldn’t do it.” 

To our incredible volunteers, our deepest gratitude goes out to you. With every smile, every hug, and every precious minute you share, you make a profound difference in the lives of our patients and families. 