Mercy Seeks Hospice Volunteers

SPRINGFIELD — Mercy Hospice, a program of the Mercy Senior Care Network, is seeking volunteers to visit with patients and their families. The volunteers are part of an interdisciplinary team that provides companionship and support to families experiencing a terminal illness. “Our volunteers provide a vital element of the services we provide, by offering hope and compassion to people dealing with a situation that can be extraordinarily challenging,” said Joanne Schlunk, director of Mercy Hospice. “They offer comfort and guidance during the most difficult of times. They also enjoy the satisfaction that comes from easing someone’s emotional burden.” According to Schlunk, a volunteer’s schedule is flexible, and there is no minimum time commitment. “We are grateful for any amount of time they can offer us.” Volunteers will be given 20 hours of training during an eight-week program before they begin service. Training sessions will be arranged individually and scheduled at a time that is most convenient to applicants. For more information, call Schlunk at (413) 540-0140.