Organizations across the country are celebrating National Volunteer Week April 16-22, and the service, the gifts of time and talent individuals selflessly give to help others.
This volunteer commitment is especially valuable and heartfelt in hospice, which is thriving in this community thanks to its volunteers.
Hartford HealthCare at Home has 148 trained volunteers who selflessly impact the lives of people with serious or life-threatening illness, helping them live as fully as possible. They help meet needs by providing companionship, respite, pet therapy, massages, bereavement support, veteran support, and performing administrative duties.
A volunteer with Hartford HealthCare at Home since 2018, Elizabeth “Liz” Chen has supported many people in their homes and nursing facilities and breaking barriers every day with her ability to speak two languages.
“Before retiring from my career as a writer in the computer industry, I never imagined that I would feel this calling to work with patients and their families. Hospice work has instilled in me the desire to do more,” Liz says.
“Liz shines in making families feel supported with her reliability and comforting presence,” says Holly Beck, volunteer coordinator, Hartford HealthCare at Home.
During National Volunteer Week, we honor and celebrate those caring individuals who do so much for so many – particularly hospice volunteers who accompany people on life’s final journey. Volunteers are a part of this special care and brings compassion and dignity to patients and their families.
“My work as a hospice volunteer is the most fulfilling work I have ever done. I just love meeting with my patients and their caregivers. I’m always amazed and gratified by the loving bonds we establish,” Liz says.