HARRIET HAWKINS, BRUCE HOLSTED, LISA PRIVETT & HARBOR
There are people called to provide the most crucial and compassionate care during one of life’s most difficult transitions. These folks have the gift of empathy for those who are dying and the loved ones who are grieving the loss. According to Arkansas Hospice Foundation Communications & Events Coordinator Laura Grimes, the Arkansas Hospice volunteers are highly trained and devoted to the support of fellow Arkansans during this vulnerable and emotionally delicate time, the end-of-life experience.
“Not only does this committed group serve the mission by assisting with fundraising efforts for Arkansas Hospice Foundation, but they are also hands-on ministers to our patients and their families,” Laura explains. “They volunteer their time and resources to sit at the bedside of dying patients, assist our clinical care teams with patient and family needs, support those who are grieving, and even implement special projects.” Among these projects are the “Elf Squad,” who collect Christmas gifts for patients in hospice care; the Arkansas Hospice Therapy Dog Program, which is completely operated by volunteers; and creating lap blankets and prayer shawls for family and friends. Volunteers also spend time with patients, whether it’s in home or at care facilities.
Celebrating more than 25 years – Arkansas Hospice boasts the heart of its organization is its people, from physicians to devoted volunteers and patrons. “Nonprofit hospice organizations are required by Medicare regulations to have at least five percent of patient care hours provided by volunteers,” Laura elaborates. “Arkansas Hospice volunteers are integral in maintaining this metric, and our organization could not function without their selfless contributions.” As the state’s largest nonprofit hospice organization – Arkansas Hospice offers strength, expertise and resources as well as including volunteers who find it gratifying and emotionally meaningful to share time and talent. They honor patients and their loved ones by giving (and finding) a greater appreciation for life and sense of purpose.