The month of April is National Volunteer Month, Aveanna Hospice honored its volunteers with an appreciation lunch in its premises in Andalusia on Wednesday, April 27.
Aveanna Hospice volunteers can help with either indirect or direct service.
“There are many ways to get involved. Direct volunteers interact with patients while caregivers do their errands or make an appointment. They read to patients as well as provide companionship and some sing to patients. Indirect assistance is provided by hospice staff at the office with tasks like answering phones or filing and attending community events and making crafts for our patients during holidays. Anyone 18 and over is eligible to volunteer, while those 15 and older with a parent’s permission,” Executive Director Kim Ray stated.
Carla Mooney, who has been volunteering for 10 years, first became aware about the program from an exhibit at the Covington County Fair.
“I wanted to be involved in something and after I came across the stand, I made a decision to sign up. I wanted to be a helper for others, but did not know how to do it,” Mooney said.
Lola Shakespeare first volunteered one year ago after her retirement. The facility was referred to as Comfort Care Hospice.
“I was thinking of doing something to take up the time I have right now. Madame. Judy mentioned volunteering with hospice. It’s a feeling of helping by being in their lives with loved ones of theirs whenever they’re going for appointments or to the shop and they don’t need to worry about it,” Shakespeare said.
Mary Brazzell has served as a volunteer for past three years.
“I love helping people and I enjoy visiting patients. I enjoy being around people and I’m a good talking person. I was awed by being part of the community and participating in events like Butterfly Release. Butterfly Release and seeing everybody,” Brazzell said.
Every woman is proud in her work as a volunteer for Aveanna Hospice.
“To me, it’s a sign that you do your best for those in need. They can’t complete everything, but you’re there for them. This is something that they value,” Shakespeare said. “I believe it’s about giving back to others.” Ruth Duncan, who is a 14-year volunteer, said.
Volunteers expressed their appreciation towards Aveanna staff for their assistance. Aveanna staff for providing support.
“They treat us just like everybody else at work. Certain places have different ways of treating volunteers however here, we’re a part of them just like all other employees,” Mooney said. “Judy is a lovely person and I am awestruck hearing her voice. It makes me laugh,” Duncan said. “We have always been a group of people,” Shakespeare said.
Brazzell made reference to her childhood years in relation to the tasks she was assigned.
“When we were kids we were required to look at the elderly people living in our area. We did it. We checked them over and ensured they had the right medications. We stayed over with them in case they had a medical issue. This is what I love about volunteering. It’s observing others within your own local community.” the woman said.
Volunteer Coordinator Judy Ramsey described her job as one that is rewarding.
“I cherish our volunteers, and I am happy that they volunteer for our patients and with us. No matter if they are providing direct and indirect support, each moment is a blessing to our caregivers, patients as well as our staff. Volunteers undergo training specifically for hospice, infection control and emergency readiness. All volunteers undergo background checks prior to beginning their volunteer work. It is April, their time of year and we are grateful for their time spent with our patients, as well as the time they are in the office,” Ramsey said.
Aveanna Hospice is located at 820 South Three Notch Street, Suite C in Andalusia. The office hours are Monday through Friday between 8:30 a.m. through five p.m. with an on-call nurse throughout the day.
“We are humbled that they chose our hospice to donate their time and energy to. Elizabeth Andrews said, ‘Volunteers don’t necessarily have the time to do it; they simply have the heart. We are grateful for their generosity,” Ray said.
For more information, visit aveanna.com or call 334-427-4000.
The story Aveanna Hospice honors volunteers during a luncheon of appreciation was originally published in The Andalusia Star-News.
