As Aesop said, “No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.” This is never more true than it is for hospice volunteers who share their talents, or simply their time, to enrich people’s lives.

Just ask RVNAhealth volunteer, Paul Avery. “You know how the saying goes,” he says. “’You get more from giving than you actually give.’ That’s exactly how I feel about my Hospice volunteering. I spend time with people at a very important time in their life, and I treasure it. It’s gentle time — talking, sitting, watching Mets games, that kind of thing. The connection is what’s important.”

Volunteers are critical to the mission of  Hospice by RVNA and support patients in a variety of ways, including visiting and offering companionship, reading books or magazines, assisting with writing letters or scrapbooking, pet care, and more. Volunteers are also needed for office and phone work, assistance with mailings, or help at fundraising events. Professionals willing to offer their services – such as religious leaders, massage therapists, manicurists, handy helpers, and gardeners — are also welcome.

“There are so many ways to make a difference in the lives of our patients and their families,” says Hospice by RVNA Director, Leslie Chiaramonte. “What may seem like a small task to you could mean the world to them.”

Hospice by RVNA is currently seeking volunteers* for Ridgefield and surrounding communities. For more information, contact Hospice by RVNA Social Worker Cindy Merritt at 203-438-5555.

Hospice by RVNA is licensed and in the final accreditation stage.

* While we appreciate the generosity of all volunteers, we ask those who have recently lost a loved one to wait at least one year before volunteering. Please allow yourself the time you need for yourself — to strengthen and heal.  Thank you.