Ridgeview seeks volunteers to support hospice patients

Area resident says ’Volunteering fills my tank’

Hospice volunteers play an important role at Ridgeview. Working alongside the hospice medical team, the specially trained volunteers provide support and companionship to patients and their families, allowing family members to focus on caring for their loved one. Ridgeview’s hospice team focuses on caring, not curing. The goal is to help patients nearing the end of their lives feel peace, comfort and dignity. “I have never been more blessed to be a part of something as I have with Ridgeview’s hospice volunteer program,” shared Peg Kamps, Green Isle. After experiencing the difficulty of losing several loved ones, Peg views the benefits that hospice provides to the dying to be a gift.

“I found everyone within Ridgeview’s hospice program to be so gracious and kind when I had family members receiving hospice care, most recently my brother. I knew I wanted to give back to this incredible program. Volunteering is something I can give of myself that doesn’t cost a thing, yet it’s so rewarding,” Peg explained.

Peg is no stranger to Ridgeview; she has worked as a nutrition aide in the cafeteria on Ridgeview’s Waconia Campus for the past eight years. Though retired, she continues to work in the cafeteria casually. “I just love people,” Peg said, “and if I can make someone’s day better, then that’s what I set out to do.”

Ridgeview’s hospice volunteer program matches volunteers with compatible patients who are terminally ill. As a volunteer, Peg offers companionship for those receiving hospice care. She particularly enjoys having conversations with and reading to her patients. “I just love the spark in their eye when you connect with them about a pastime or interest they have,” Peg shared.

Hospice volunteers needed

Ridgeview is currently seeking compassionate individuals to serve as hospice volunteers. Prospective volunteers must be at least 18 years old and complete Ridgeview’s application process, which includes a health screening, background check, orientation, and specialized hospice volunteer training (both online and in-person components).

“If you are interested in volunteering but have any hesitations, I encourage you to step out of your comfort zone because it is so incredibly rewarding. Volunteering ‘fills my tank’ and has been an amazing journey,” Peg said.

If you would like more information about volunteering, contact Ridgeview Volunteer Services at 952.442.2191 ext. 35593.

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