In her role, Heidi has many different responsibilities – matching volunteers with hospice patients as companions, identifying greeters for the Hospice Home, and various fundraising efforts. She is responsible for managing the schedules and training of more than 30 volunteers. Each Hospice Volunteer has 12-14 hours of training and then must attend annual training thereafter. She is also responsible for recruiting and scheduling volunteers for the agency’s major fundraising events – River Run and Light up a Life.

Heidi says she was attracted to VNA because it is not a corporation – it is a community-based organization with a mission of caring for the community. “The amount of charity care we provide to our community warms my heart.”

Her experience in non-profit started many years ago. She enjoyed the work but started a family and was fortunate to be able to stay home. Once the kids were in school, she became involved in volunteering, eventually moving up to PTA Vice President and President. In 2007, she was ready to re-enter the workforce when an opportunity at VNA became available. She served as receptionist for six years, when another opportunity presented itself – Volunteer Coordinator. She has served in this role for eight years and loves coming to work every day! “I love our awesome volunteers – they make my job easy. I have great co-workers – every day is a good day with them” she commented.

“I believe in the work we do. I believe it is important to educate the community on the benefits of hospice care. It’s important to prepare for what is to happen before it does” she says.

VNA volunteers have a great longevity – half of the 33 volunteers have more than 15 years of service; the most experienced has 33 years! She says, “I get so much from our volunteers – they are so valuable to me.” Heidi is actively recruiting volunteers for Blue Water Hospice – contact her if you are interested and to learn more!

Jessica recognized Heidi as a Shining Star!

“Heidi is a Shining Star because she has made sure to keep up on all of the latest information to keep her volunteers safe and guide them with a cool, calm, and collected attitude. She has stepped up to ensure that the greeter desk is manned with volunteers to make sure all staff, patients, and families who walk into the Hospice Home are kept safe. At any time, Heidi is always helping others and going the extra mile for her “work family” with a positive attitude and a smile on her face.”

If you’d like to recognize a staff member, go to https://bwhch.org/thankyou/.