The following information is presented by Genesys Health System.

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Hospice Volunteering
7280 South State Road
Goodrich, MI 48438
(810) 636-5021
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“ ... it is when you give of yourself that you truly give.”
- The Prophet Kahlil Gibran

Hospice, in many ways, owes it’s beginnings to the dedicated work of volunteers. Genesys Hospice Volunteers are people from our community who have come forward with the special desire to help their neighbors. They are the heart and soul of hospice.

Genesys Hospice Volunteers enhance the care we provide to patients and families. Our volunteers give freely of their time, bringing compassion and empathy as they assist with the following services depending on their interests:
  • Companionship
  • Transportation
  • Reading, letter writing, and other activities
  • Occasional shopping and other errands
  • Food preparation and feeding
  • Assistance with light household tasks
  • Gardening
  • Bereavement support
  • Community relations
  • Office projects
  • Spiritual Care
  • Guest greeter at Genesys Hospice Care Center
  • Vigil Care
Volunteers are required to go through 24 hours of formal training before they are able to perform duties at Genesys Hospice. This program is spread over 4 weeks, with day and evening options available. Additional training is required for those interested in Bereavement, Spiritual, or Vigil Care.
  • Bereavement Volunteers provide follow-up support to families for up to 13 months after a patient has passed away.
  • Spiritual Care Volunteers assist patients and families in conjunction with any involved clergy.
  • Vigil Care Volunteers are available to sit at a patient’s bedside in the last hours of life to ensure that no one dies alone.
 
“Our family has grown up and moved on with their lives and our parents are gone. My need for caring was complete again when I became a hospice volunteer. The diversity of personalities, professions, hobbies and needs presents an interesting challenge for me.

It is always heart-warming to be able to bring on a smile or a laugh while visiting hospice patients; to hold a hand in prayer when the tears flow, or see the gleam in the eye when served an ice cream sundae. Celebrating a birthday or anniversary with greetings, hugs and song becomes a special event.

When I leave Genesys Hospice Care Center parking lot, I always wonder (and hope!) the patients feel at least somewhat better because I was there. These visits always leave me personally with such warmth and fulfillment. My day-to-day appointments are established around Thursdays if possible – the day I visit Genesys Hospice patients. It is by far my Special Day.”

- Eunice L.
 

If you are interested in becoming a volunteer or would like more information, please fill out our online form or call toll free: (888) 943-9690.