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At Solaris Healthcare, quality care is built on the efforts of many. Our dedicated clinical teams, support staff, and volunteers each play an important role in delivering compassionate hospice services. As we observe National Volunteer Week 2025, we take a moment to appreciate those who quietly support our mission—our volunteers. They may not always be in the spotlight, but their contributions add meaningful value to the patient experience.

Volunteers are an essential part of the care team, helping patients by providing companionship, comfort, and emotional support. They often assist with non-medical tasks such as organizing events, offering a listening ear, or helping patients engage in meaningful activities that improve their quality of life. Volunteers also work alongside healthcare staff, allowing the clinical team to focus on direct medical care while they take on important roles in ensuring patients feel seen and valued. Their contributions extend beyond the care setting, as they support our mission through outreach, communication, and community involvement.

Volunteers come from many backgrounds—some are students seeking experience, others are retired professionals, and many have had personal experiences with hospice. What unites them is a willingness to give time and presence. Though their roles may vary, each volunteer adds something meaningful to our overall care environment—whether it’s lifting spirits, helping out behind the scenes, or simply showing up when it matters.

Our volunteers take on a wide range of responsibilities, each tailored to meet the unique needs of our patients. Some volunteers have trained their dogs to be therapy animals, visiting facilities regularly to provide comfort. Others spend time with patients, offering companionship or sitting with them so caregivers can take a much-needed break. Volunteers also help with practical tasks, like picking up groceries, making weekly calls to lonely patients, and even cooking meals to bring to families, ensuring caregivers don’t have to worry about dinner. Volunteers also help lead activities, playing games, reading, and singing to patients. More recently, volunteers have assisted chaplains in serving communion, contributing to the spiritual support of patients in hospice care. Some even support our administrative teams, offering their help in the office to ensure everything runs smoothly.

One of the key contributions of volunteers is fostering stronger connections between patients, families, and the healthcare team. By offering a caring presence, volunteers help to bridge the emotional gap that can often accompany illness or recovery. Their role in building trust and providing comfort is crucial, especially in hospice care, where patients may feel isolated. Volunteers create an environment of warmth and reassurance, helping patients and families feel supported and connected to the broader healthcare community.

The dedication and compassion of volunteers inspire a culture of giving within our organization. They set an example of selflessness, reminding us all of the importance of kindness and community. Volunteers contribute not only to the care of patients but also to the moral fabric of the entire organization. Their involvement helps foster a workplace culture rooted in empathy, respect, and shared commitment to providing the highest standard of care.

This National Volunteer Week, we’re proud to acknowledge the role volunteers play at Solaris. While they are just one part of the larger team, their presence and support do not go unnoticed. Their efforts reflect the same compassion and dedication that drive us all. To our volunteers—thank you for being part of the journey.