HopeWest volunteers carry great responsibility. Not only do they fill gaps in the needs of our organization, serving those facing the challenges of aging, illness, and grief, but most importantly, their contributions expand on the exceptional care experienced by the families we serve.
In 2024, 82,276 hours were given by 1,085 volunteers. These hours are equivalent to 40 full-time employees and a $2.7 million contribution.
Our volunteers’ dedication and heartfelt contributions of their time and talents expand to all our programs. By going above and beyond the basic standards of care, volunteers are part of what makes the HopeWest experience meaningful and memorable.
“Volunteerism makes HopeWest so special,” said Lisa Ortner, Director of Volunteer Services at HopeWest. “One of the greatest gifts you can give is your time, and we are so grateful to our volunteers who do just that. Only with their help can we have the resources to provide the type of care we all want for our family, friends, and neighbors.”
As essential HopeWest team members, volunteers provide vital services to people receiving care. They support patients and their families by offering respite care or helping to care for pets. Some give their time providing transportation or reading and writing letters for patients. Others enjoy developing new friendships with those we serve, planning routine visits, playing card games, or doing crafts.
Susie Rochon, a HopeWest volunteer of 13 years, says her motivation for volunteering stems from honoring what means the most to the patients she serves and helping to bring them happiness.
When Susie met palliative care patient Lois, she learned of Lois’s two beloved horses. Since then, the duo makes routine trips to the facility where the mustangs are cared for.
“Being with my horses – it’s healing. They have a way of communicating with you, an unspoken love.” said Lois.
Appreciative of the time Susie takes to make these visits to the ranch, Lois says she also looks forward to their conversations.
“Susie is very, very special. We share a spiritual connection. She always asks me questions about what’s going on in my life, and she just makes me feel good.” she said.
Beyond direct patient interactions, volunteers are strategically deployed throughout our organization and other programs, creating an environment conducive to comfort and healing. Volunteers maintain gardens at the Ferris Hospice Care Center, provide administrative support, offer pet therapy, participate in grief support services, and work in our retail store, Heirlooms for Hospice, among many other roles.
Volunteers are an integral part of our organization, so much so that this is reflected in our mission statement: Together, through creativity, volunteerism, and philanthropy, we profoundly change the experiences of aging, illness, and grief – one family at a time.