I have made a charitable contribution to Sutter VNA and Hospice of Sonoma County monthly from paychecks almost as long as I have been a State employee. My mother died when I was 18 years old and there really was no one available to support me in own process of grieving. It was many years later that I had the supportive environment that allowed me to fully grieve my loss and move on. 

When I was in my thirties I had the opportunity to become a volunteer bereavement counselor for Home Hospice. I was able “to give back” the kind of support and understanding that I wished I had right after my mom died. It was such a privilege “to accompany” those in sadness and grief while they worked through feelings to heal from their loss. I continued as a volunteer for more than 16 years. Many of the bereaved that I saw had already received hospice services through the care of their loved ones prior to their death. Care giving for the terminally ill is the major focus of hospice. 

Although I am no longer a volunteer there, I have such a good feeling every month knowing my contribution goes to support this meaningful work. Hospice services make a profound difference at a critical time in our lives.