Jake is one of those volunteers. Jake supports his local hospice team in multiple ways, both in the office and out in the community.

Jake assists with Tuck-In Calls, a proactive outreach that helps ensure patients have everything they need heading into the weekend. From confirming supplies to answering questions, these calls provide peace of mind for patients and families alike. Jake also steps in to help deliver supplies when needed, making sure patients remain comfortable and supported at home.

Jake also visits hospice patients in their home. Spending time with hospice patients may look simple on the surface, but it often carries deep meaning. Whether it’s sitting and talking, listening to stories or simply being present, Jake creates moments of connection that matter. Patients and care teams alike appreciate his consistency, kindness and calm presence.

At the heart of Jake’s volunteer work is a strong sense of purpose, something that guides how he shows up for others every day.

“Our family motto, and something we have tried to instill into our children is, ‘See a need, meet a need,’” Jake shared. “If I am truly living that out in my own life, then I must look at volunteering as an obligation.”

For Jake, volunteering isn’t just something he does when he has extra time; it’s a responsibility rooted in gratitude.

“God has richly blessed me personally in so many ways that my cup currently runneth over. It is my responsibility to make sure that I can use that excess to pour into others,” he said.

Hospice volunteers like Jake play an essential role in supporting patients at the end of life. They help reduce feelings of isolation, offer  companionship and provide an extra layer of comfort for both patients and families. In many cases, they become a steady, familiar presence during an uncertain time.

Jake’s story is a reminder that meaningful support doesn’t always come from grand gestures. Sometimes, it’s just about showing up.

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For the past several months, Eileen and Blair have been brightening patients’ days with regular visits, bringing comfort, connection and a sense of joy into each interaction. Blair, a brindle German Shepherd mix, completed specialized training for her role and has quickly become a familiar and beloved presence.

“Blair is so easygoing, and she loves people,” Eileen shared. “She sits at their feet, allowing them to pet her, and she loves the attention.”

Even with a full-time career in the medical field, Eileen dedicates her Saturdays to volunteering. Together, she and Blair join patients during group activities, whether it’s watching football, participating in light exercise classes or enjoying a favorite episode of The Price is Right.

Blair’s calm, gentle nature makes her a natural companion. She often rests her head near a patient’s knees, quietly inviting a soft pat or scratch behind her ears. In those quiet moments, something special happens — conversations start, smiles appear and connections form.

Eileen has seen firsthand the impact Blair has on those they visit.

“When I walk in with Blair, they light up and want to see her,” she said. “Blair greets each person as if she’s saying hello, then takes her time making the rounds. Once she’s finished, she lies down to rest.”

For many patients, these visits become something to look forward to each week. To make those moments last a little longer, Eileen even created a special therapy card featuring Blair’s photo and fun facts, giving patients a small reminder of their time together.

The impact of their visits extends beyond patients alone. Staff and fellow volunteers also feel the warmth and positivity Blair brings into the room.

Eileen and Blair’s time together is a reflection of the compassion that defines hospice care. Through small gestures and shared moments, they are helping patients feel seen, supported and a little more at ease.

We’re so lucky to have Eileen and Blair on our team, making a difference for our patients and care teams with each visit.

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For Sai, a 26-year-old pre-med student finishing his prerequisites at the University of Toledo, volunteering in hospice care felt like a natural way to give back while learning from others.

Despite his busy schedule, Sai felt drawn to hospice volunteering for a simple but powerful reason.

“I saw it as a way to help and be there for patients and families at a pivotal moment in their lives,” he shared.

In just a short time, that decision has already shaped his perspective in meaningful ways.

Sai has learned that sometimes the most important thing you can offer isn’t advice or action, but presence. Listening, he says, can have a profound impact.

“I’ve already learned a lot, from how important and impactful listening can be to how unique and full each of my patients’ lives has been.”

Through conversations with hospice patients, Sai has experienced moments filled with humor, reflection and connection.

“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time with my patients, being there for all of their funny stories and different opinions, as well as experiencing moments with them that will stick with me for the rest of my life.”

Volunteers help bring comfort, dignity and companionship into the home. They remind us that care is not only about clinical support, but also about human connection.

Sai also credits the team around him for making his experience so meaningful.

“I’m very appreciative towards [Volunteer Coordinator] Kate and the team for giving me this opportunity to volunteer, and hopefully I can carry what I have learned into my future endeavors.”

We’re grateful for volunteers like Sai who show up with compassion, curiosity and a willingness to simply be there.

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