Transitions Volunteers
Transitions volunteer Gloria Kennedy was named Outstanding Volunteer for 2017 for the entire Hospice of Marion County organization (more than 700 volunteers). Gloria provided 643 service hours and drove more than 7,000 miles taking clients to doctors’ appointments and running errands. She was presented her award by Board President Diana Holder and CEO Mary Ellen Poe.
Volunteer…It’s Good for You, too
Transitions volunteers are clearly “called” to provide this service. In addition to visiting patients, your presence as a volunteer also gives family members the opportunity for a much-needed break.
Patient care is not the only way to contribute.Transitions offers many opportunities to use your unique talents. Here are a few ways you can make a difference:
Veterans Pinning Ceremonies
Ceremonies recognizing veterans provide touching moments and lasting memories for patients and families. Since 2009, volunteers have performed 450 Veterans’ Pinning Ceremonies at patients’ homes, nursing homes and for our own employees and volunteers. To meet the demand of this increasingly popular effort, we need volunteers who are veterans themselves to conduct the ceremony.
Pet Peace of Mind
Nothing beats a nuzzle from a warm puppy! Transitions offers both home visits from therapy animals as well as efforts to keep pets in their homes. Making it possible for family pets to remain with their owners is the mission of our Pet Peace of Mind program. Transitions volunteers determine how we can help keep pets safe, fed, healthy and happy at home. Services, which are limited to dogs and cats, may include:
- Walking the dog, cleaning the cat box or putting out food
- Picking up pet medications, food or supplies
- Transportation to a veterinarian for a routine or symptom-related visit
- Transportation to a groomer for bath and a trim
Making Memories through Lifestory Writing
Our clients often welcome the opportunity to have help writing down their personal memoirs. Formats include scrapbooking style, text and photo style and CD audio recordings. Helpful resources are provided to the volunteers interested in providing this service.
If you have a volunteer idea in mind, call to suggest it. Volunteers around the country have come up with all kinds of ideas.
We’re in the office Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.- 5 p.m. at (352) 854-5200.
Transitions Volunteer of the Month
February 2018 Volunteer of the Month, Brenda Lafferty. Her award is presented by Transitions Manager Beverly Crumpler and Volunteer Manager, Nancy LaSelva.
