“I volunteer at Bluegrass Care Navigators because I wanted to give back to an organization that did so much for my family when my parents were sick,” Cynthia Gooch, a volunteer in the Hazard office, said. “The best part of volunteering is the peace that I get when I walk into the care center and knowing that maybe I can give peace and comfort to a family there.” 

At the organization’s founding in 1978, and well into the 1980s, volunteers and fundraisers were critical, as very few insurance companies, including Medicare and Medicaid, paid for hospice. Although that has changed, volunteers still play a vital role in patient and family care. BCN is unique in that our Medicare participation requirements state that 5% of patient care hours must be completed by volunteers.   

“Our volunteers have beautiful hearts and provide extra support and care to patients and families,” Shellie Brown, Director of Volunteer Operations, said. “We don’t focus a lot on that number because if you are meeting the need, you’re going to meet that requirement. We’re just here to love on our patients and support them.”  

Josh Hoffman, one of our volunteers with autism, works out of the Pikeville office to help in whatever way he’s asked. Whether putting together admission packets, decorating the bulletin board or visiting a patient, he uses his gifts and talents to bring smiles to others daily. He believes that no matter your situation, anyone can volunteer to help people in need. 

“I would recommend them just to try it out because it’s a good thing, not only for yourself, but for other people,” he said. “It’s a great thing to do.” 

Sherry Terlau, a volunteer in the Northern Kentucky office, volunteers with therapy dog Molly because she wanted to give back to the organization who had taken care of her mom. At least twice a month, Terlau and Molly, a seven-year-old Goldendoodle, visit long-term care facilities. 

“I like to volunteer because I love people, especially the elderly,” Terlau said. “They don’t get as many visitors, and I just love to see them smile.”  

Lexington volunteer hairdresser, Meg Demaree, was looking for a meaningful way to help others after recently becoming an empty nester. Typically, Meg sees three to four patients per month and gives them the full treatment of a cut, blow dry and style. 

“I feel like I am making these patients’ last moments on earth a little more enjoyable,” Demaree said. “They feel more like themselves when I leave rather than when I came, and I feel like I’m doing a good thing.” 

Frankfort volunteer Pete Croswell has volunteered with BCN for more than 15 years. He has participated in administrative support, marketing and fundraising events, compassion bag delivery, as well as direct patient contact. 

“The best part is the personal satisfaction I get from doing the work,” he said. “I know I’ve done something to help somebody and that keeps me going.” 

Barbourville volunteer Nick Liford is a veteran of the Iraq war and enjoys connecting with other veterans. Liford has found that veteran experiences transcend generations, helping him break barriers and build relationships with others. He delivers gift bags, helps cut grass and leads Veteran Pinning Ceremonies to honor our patients. 

“Being able to serve those who have served is a privilege that you can’t find anywhere, and Bluegrass Care Navigators has afforded that opportunity to me,” Liford said. 

Hospice volunteers are a valuable part of the patient care team and volunteer opportunities are available in our Northern, Central and Eastern Kentucky regions. Volunteers work with a clinical team of a doctor, nurse, aide, chaplain and social worker. Because they spend time with the patient, volunteers who provide direct patient care can often give the team valuable feedback about issues that may arise during their visits.  

“This is a great opportunity,” Dave Clark, volunteer in the Cynthiana office, said. “If you want to get into a program where you know you are doing good, this is where you really ought to take a look.” 

If you are interested in finding out how to volunteer with Bluegrass Care Navigators, please go to www.bgcarenav.org/volunteer.