Calvert Hospice as part of the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization salutes the estimated 450,000 trained hospice volunteers providing more than 21 million hours of service to hospice programs each year.
Those dedicated individuals offering support, companionship and hope to those facing a life-limiting illness deserve special recognition for the difference they make in America.
More than 1.65 million patients in the U.S. are cared for by hospice every year.
“Hospice volunteers play an indispensable role in enabling hospice organizations to offer the best care possible for patients living with life-limiting illness, their families and caregivers and over the years working in hospice, I’ve seen firsthand the comfort, love and respect hospice brings to all the people they care for. I offer my thanks to all the hospice volunteers who are doing so much for our community.” said Brenda Laughhunn, Executive Director of Calvert Hospice.
Hospice volunteers often serve patients and families at the bedside but they also assist in the office, help raise awareness, contribute to educational programs, and provide fundraising support such as Festival of Trees and more.
It is federally mandated under Medicare that five percent of all patient care hours be provided by trained volunteers. This regulation reflects the vital role that volunteers play in the hospice philosophy of care and ensures that a hospice program has roots deep in the community. By sharing their time, energy, and expertise, volunteers bring compassion and caring to the lives of those in need.
To learn more about being involved contact Calvert Hospice at (410) 535-0892 or visit our website at www.calverthospice.org
