Not-for-profit needs individuals to help families in Charlevoix, Petoskey, Harbor Springs and surrounding communities
Charlevoix, Mich. (Sept. 9, 2022) – Hospice of Michigan is seeking compassionate volunteers to help patients and families dealing with life-limiting illnesses in Charlevoix, Michigan.
The not-for-profit has a specific need for companionship and pet volunteers to support families in Charlevoix, Petoskey, Harbor Springs and surrounding communities.
Charlevoix native Arch Dettman started volunteering with Hospice of Michigan five months ago because, as a retired physician, he finds purpose visiting patients in their homes and assisted living facilities. He understands, firsthand, the impact volunteers have on patients and families.
“The end-of-life journey is something we will all experience one day,” said Dettman. “It’s truly rewarding to meet, talk and connect to someone when they need it most. You develop a special bond that is unique to the role of a hospice volunteer.”
Hospice of Michigan volunteers are vital in helping to deliver exceptional, compassionate support to patients and families according to its mission of caring for patients wherever they call home, right in the same community in which its volunteers live.
“No two hospice volunteers have the same experience, but each one makes an incredible impact on the lives of the patients and families they support,” said Kathy Lietaert, Hospice of Michigan volunteer program manager. “You can make a difference in your community. If have it in your heart, please consider becoming a volunteer with Hospice of Michigan.”
Hospice of Michigan will host orientations on an as-needed basis, so prospective volunteers can learn on their own time. Volunteers do not need any type of training or previous volunteer experience. The not-for-profit welcomes everyone who would like to give back to their community by donating their time and companionship to patients in hospice care. Volunteers must be age 18 or older and have received the COVID-19 vaccine.
For those who have experienced a recent loss, Hospice of Michigan requires a waiting period of one year before becoming a hospice volunteer to allow for the processing of grief.
Those interested in volunteering can contact Kathy Lietaert at 231-779-5409 or klietaer@hom.org to apply to become a volunteer. To learn more about Hospice of Michigan and apply to become a volunteer, visit hom.org/get-involved.