National Volunteer Week – The Carpenter Hospice

Executive Director’s Message

When I joined Carpenter Hospice, I felt I understood the importance of volunteers in Hospice; a family member had recently benefited from their kindness while in care, so it felt personal. However, working alongside our volunteers, I have learned first-hand about their essential contributions to our team and how significant they are to the very fabric of our work.

Honestly, what job affords you the daily experience of seeing empathy in action? At Carpenter Hospice, you see it every day in so many ways. It is simply impossible to measure our volunteer’s contributions and extraordinary acts of kindness.

Our volunteers sit with family members; lovingly prepare meals for residents; organize flowers into vases bringing light and colour throughout the Hospice; cheerfully greet every family member; fold laundry; pick up groceries; ensure our grounds are clean and outdoor containers artistically arranged; provide reiki and other therapy support; help us administratively with our work or lend a hand with fundraising. This is the Carpenter Hospice community.

We are grateful for our volunteer Board of Directors, who dedicate so much of their time, talent and energy to ensure that the Hospice is the best it can be for residents, clients and families.

During National Volunteer Week 2022, we celebrate our volunteers’ contributions to Carpenter Hospice. We hope that they feel how much we value them and the work they do through our words and actions.

With a grateful heart,

Kim Pearson
Executive Director

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” – Margaret Mead

Director’s Message

As we celebrate Volunteer Week, I want to thank each of you for your hard work and dedication to Carpenter Hospice.

It’s been my pleasure to meet so many of you during my first month at the Hospice. You have all been welcoming, supportive and kind.

Although I cannot be with you next week to celebrate National Volunteer Week, I am reminded, by my Mother, that appreciation is a gift we ought to give each day.

My sincere thanks to you all for sharing your time, talents, kindness, generosity and making moments matter.

With sincere appreciation,

Jane Ottman
Director Hospice Care & Quality

Volunteer Voices

“As anyone at the hospice will tell you, the kitchen is the heart of the home! Our kitchen relies on volunteers to prepare meals, pick up groceries, and give our hospice that homey feel. Thank you to all our volunteers for their compassion and generosity.”	“Both of my parents were residents in a brief timeframe. The care and compassion my family received at The Carpenter Hospice was remarkable. Once my Dad passed, I knew that I wanted to give back. We began by participating in events like the gala and Hike for Hospice. Now I work in the kitchen, and it brings me great joy cooking for the residents and making treats for “Temptation Island” for friends and family who visit. I am thankful that Burlington has the Carpenter Hospice – the staff are nothing short of amazing!” – Gord
	“We are so lucky to have complementary therapies to offer to residents, program participants, and staff. From reiki to restorative yoga, these moments of reflection and relaxation support our holistic, client-centred approach to care.”	“I appreciate the opportunity to contribute to the comfort and support of residents and their families by doing Reiki when I volunteer at the Hospice. Doing Reiki to complement a music therapy session is an added benefit to everyone.” – Sharon
Thank you to our volunteers whose empathy, compassion and generosity connect people to their communities.		“I volunteered because I wanted to assist terminally ill people and give them support. I felt both accomplished and rewarded. I have helped in the Bereavement and Wellness Classes. I also was involved at the Hospice as a companion and found this a great reward to me.” – Jim
A reception volunteer is often the first person families encounter when they arrive at Carpenter Hospice. They are responsible for greeting visitors, helping to keep residents safe, and so much more. Thank you to all of our volunteers who strive to make the hospice feel warm and welcoming!	“My mother always volunteered, and when my children were young, I followed her path and have volunteered at quite a few different places. I feel that my life has been a good one and that I have an obligation and a desire to help others whenever I can. Since COVID began, I have been screening and reception up to three times every week. I always feel appreciated and needed, even when I have had quiet shifts. Everyone is friendly and supportive, thanking me for coming. I enjoy talking to family members and visitors and think they appreciate having someone at the desk who can help them or have a chat during their long days of visiting. Many have also shared their gratitude for the Hospice staff and volunteers.” – Betty	“I started volunteering with Carpenter Hospice in 2013 for two main reasons: to honour my Dad who passed there in 2005 and because I believe hospices fulfill a vital role in a community. Unfortunately, I had a motorcycle accident last May, and after a lengthy hospital stay, I’m home, focused on my recovery. Although my rehabilitation is a full-time job, I need to find a way to give back. I feel better about myself when I help others. So, if all goes well, I look forward to contacting Carpenter Hospice this fall to say I’m ready to volunteer once again wherever I am needed”. – Alison

Staff Voices

“Thank you so much to all of the volunteers! It is incredibly appreciated to have such generous people giving their time and spirit. It is a relief for staff to have your physical help, but also, it is so lovely to have your positive energy, smiles and passion. You are a part of the Hospice family.”	“Our volunteers are part of the very fabric of our house. From the day the Hospice opened, our volunteers have played such an essential role in the care we give. They generously give their time in many different capacities to help the Hospice run smoothly, and we couldn’t do what we do without them. “	“Our volunteers are a precious and integral part of our team. They significantly impact the residents, families, friends, and staff members. We are always so delighted to work with them!”
“There is always something delicious cooking when you are here, and you do the dishes!”	“You give from your heart every day you come to help us!”
“Non-stop laundry service with a smile.”	“Our home looks so lovely with the beautiful flower arrangements.”	“Thank you for being a short-order cook, baker, and kitchen organizer all at the same time!”
	“We are so lucky and thankful to have you help us.”	“Thank you for always being there when we need you.”

Volunteer Voices

Staff Voices

Thank you all for your dedication and commitment to Carpenter Hospice. You are the heart of our community.

Thank you all for your dedication and commitment to Carpenter Hospice.
You are the heart of our community.