Meet Hospice Volunteer Blake

Sometimes, making someone’s day starts with simply sitting down and listening.

Blake learned that lesson even before becoming a hospice volunteer. When he was younger, he worked in a nursing home where he spent time talking with residents. The subjects did not need to be important or planned. What mattered was having someone there who was ready to listen.

“The people I talked to in the nursing home were eager to socialize about anything and everything,” Blake said. “I could tell that being able to talk to someone made a positive difference in their day.”

Those early conversations stayed with him. Later, when Blake discovered an opportunity to volunteer with hospice patients while attending college, the decision felt natural.

Finding a Meaningful Way to Serve

Blake is a senior at the University of Toledo majoring in health science. He grew up in Paulding County, Ohio and returns there during the summer to work as a machinist.

Although his schedule keeps him busy, hospice volunteering gives him something different: the chance to slow down, be present and get to know people whose paths he may not have crossed otherwise.

“Volunteering with patients has helped me build relationships and become friends with individuals that I wouldn’t normally interact with,” he said.

For hospice patients, a volunteer visit may bring conversation, companionship and a welcome change in the day. For Blake, each visit is also an opportunity to learn from another person’s stories and experiences.

The Value of Being Present

Hospice volunteers offer support in many ways. Some may visit with patients, listen to favorite stories, share hobbies, read aloud or provide a calm presence. These moments can help patients feel seen and give family caregivers added reassurance that someone cares.

Blake has seen how much these simple moments can mean.

“I can see how much it improves someone’s day to have a friend and a listening ear that will be with them no matter what,” he said.

His experience is a reminder that hospice care is about more than meeting physical needs. It is also about honoring each person, making space for their stories and helping them feel supported throughout their journey.

Become a Hospice Volunteer

Hospice volunteers can make a lasting impact by sharing their time and being present with patients and families. No special background is required. Elara Caring provides training and support to help volunteers find a role that matches their interests, strengths and availability.

Like Blake, you may discover that giving your time leads to meaningful friendships and moments you carry with you long after a visit ends.

Learn more about becoming an Elara Caring hospice volunteer and apply online to support patients and families in your community.