Paul and Velda Stanek receive top volunteer recognition for dedicated service during National Volunteer Week
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – The Compassus program serving Springfield and the surrounding areas is proud to recognize Paul and Velda Stanek, and all hospice volunteers, during National Volunteer Week April 15-21 for providing companionship, support and dignity to hospice patients and their loved ones. Paul and Velda have been volunteering at Compassus for nine years.
“Paul and Velda are two very special volunteers,” said Bethany Harrell, volunteer coordinator for Compassus – Springfield. “During the Christmas season, they act as Mr. and Mrs. Claus and give the priceless gift of love and joy to patients at nearly 20 long-term care facilities in the Springfield area.”
“We are proud to recognize Paul and Velda for their efforts to honor life and offer hope to individuals facing life-limiting illnesses by supporting them with compassion, integrity and excellence,” said Amy Winburn, executive director for Compassus – Springfield. “Volunteers like them are fundamental to the Compassus mission of delivering the highest quality care. These caring individuals extend the reach of hospice employees, creating the opportunity to do more for more patients and their families.”
According to the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization, there are an estimated 450,000 trained hospice volunteers providing more than 19 million hours of service to hospice programs each year. Hospice volunteers add to the care provided by physicians and other hospice staff by bringing companionship to people in the final months and weeks of life, providing respite to families and caregivers, and supporting the administrative responsibilities of hospice programs.
“Whether listening quietly, reading a book or simply running errands, volunteers make a meaningful impact on our patients and their families,” said Brian Duff, M.D., medical director for Compassus – Springfield. “I want to thank Paul, Velda and all of the volunteers on our team for their commitment to those we serve.”
For more information about National Volunteer Week, visit pointsoflight.org/signature-events/national-volunteer-week.
For information about Compassus – Springfield, please visit compassus.com/springfield or call (417) 882-0453.
