A Heart for Service: Volunteer Jake

When people think about hospice care, they often picture nurses and caregivers at the bedside. But behind the scenes — and often right alongside care teams — are dedicated volunteers who help make each day a little brighter. For many patients and families, hospice volunteers provide comfort, companionship and meaningful connection when it matters most.

Jake is one of those volunteers. Jake supports his local hospice team in multiple ways, both in the office and out in the community.

Jake assists with Tuck-In Calls, a proactive outreach that helps ensure patients have everything they need heading into the weekend. From confirming supplies to answering questions, these calls provide peace of mind for patients and families alike. Jake also steps in to help deliver supplies when needed, making sure patients remain comfortable and supported at home.

Jake also visits hospice patients in their home. Spending time with hospice patients may look simple on the surface, but it often carries deep meaning. Whether it’s sitting and talking, listening to stories or simply being present, Jake creates moments of connection that matter. Patients and care teams alike appreciate his consistency, kindness and calm presence.

At the heart of Jake’s volunteer work is a strong sense of purpose, something that guides how he shows up for others every day.

“Our family motto, and something we have tried to instill into our children is, ‘See a need, meet a need,’” Jake shared. “If I am truly living that out in my own life, then I must look at volunteering as an obligation.”

For Jake, volunteering isn’t just something he does when he has extra time; it’s a responsibility rooted in gratitude.

“God has richly blessed me personally in so many ways that my cup currently runneth over. It is my responsibility to make sure that I can use that excess to pour into others,” he said.

Hospice volunteers like Jake play an essential role in supporting patients at the end of life. They help reduce feelings of isolation, offer  companionship and provide an extra layer of comfort for both patients and families. In many cases, they become a steady, familiar presence during an uncertain time.

Jake’s story is a reminder that meaningful support doesn’t always come from grand gestures. Sometimes, it’s just about showing up.