The Volunteers Who Make Hospice Extra Special

A message from Chela Worthington, Volunteer Coordinator

When people think about hospice, they often think of nurses, physicians, chaplains, and social workers. While each plays an essential role, there is another group whose kindness makes an incredible difference every day, our volunteers.

As the Volunteer Coordinator at Valor Hospice, I have the privilege of getting to know the amazing people who generously give their time to serve our patients and families. Every volunteer brings something unique, but they all share one thing in common: they remind our patients they are seen, valued, and never forgotten.

The Gift of Presence

Hospice volunteers aren't there to provide medical care. They're there to provide something just as meaningful: companionship.

Some spend time visiting patients, reading books, listening to stories, watching television together, painting nails, or simply sitting quietly beside someone who doesn't want to be alone. Others support our office by preparing patient binders, making tuck-in calls before the weekend, writing bereavement letters, or helping with administrative projects.

No matter how they serve, every hour they give helps us care for patients and families in a deeper, more personal way.

One patient once told me, "I used to be somebody."

Those words have stayed with me. The truth is, they are still somebody. They still matter, and volunteers help remind them of that through simple acts of kindness and genuine human connection.

Inspired by Family

My passion for hospice began long before I became a Volunteer Coordinator.

My grandmother lived with Alzheimer's disease during the last years of her life, and she lived with our family until I was 17 years old. At that time, families didn't have the education and support that hospice provides today. Looking back, I wish we had known more about how to care for her and support her through that journey.

That experience shaped my heart for hospice and deepened my appreciation for the comfort, guidance, and compassion hospice teams provide to both patients and families.

There's a Place for Everyone

One of my favorite things about our volunteer program is that there isn't one perfect volunteer.

Some volunteers bring therapy dogs. Others play music or spend time visiting patients. Some prefer helping behind the scenes in the office. We match people with opportunities that fit their strengths because everyone has something meaningful to offer.

You don't need medical experience, we provide all the training you need. What matters most is having compassion, being dependable, and wanting to make a difference.

Our volunteers come from every stage of life. One of ours is over 80 years old and still faithfully serves every week, while others balance full-time jobs and volunteer whenever they can. No matter how much time someone gives, every act of service matters.

More Than Volunteering

People often ask me what I would say to someone who's thinking about volunteering.

My answer is simple: do it.

When you give your time to someone else, you gain something in return that is difficult to describe. You find purpose, build meaningful connections, and witness the incredible impact a small act of kindness can have.

Every day I see patients smile when a volunteer walks through the door. I watch families feel supported during some of life's hardest moments. It reminds me that volunteering is about so much more than giving your time.

It's about bringing comfort, dignity, hope, and reminding someone they are never alone.

Become a Valor Hospice Volunteer

Whether you have a few hours each month or a few hours each week, there's a place for you on our team.

We'll provide the training, you simply bring your heart to serve.

Because sometimes the greatest gift you can give is simply being there.