Galway Hospice Foundation celebrates Volunteer Week

GALWAY Hospice marked National Volunteering Week by celebrating the extraordinary people who have helped make every moment matter within hospice care.

The 118 volunteers working at the hospice play a vital role in so many areas, such as supporting reception areas, day care services, patient transport, meal delivery, fundraising activities, administration, alongside many other aspects of hospice life.

Beyond practical support, they also offer something equally valuable — presence, warmth, conversation, and human connection.

A coffee morning was held in the hospice recently as a small gesture of appreciation for the people who have given up their free time so selflessly throughout the year.

Mary Nash, CEO of Galway Hospice Foundation, thanked volunteers for the profound impact they have on patients, families, and staff.

“You are truly at the heart of our hospice community, giving us the fantastic gift of your time, and helping us ensure that every moment truly matters for the patients and families who use our services,” commented the CEO.

National Volunteer Week theme

This year’s National Volunteering Week theme, “From Every Corner, For Every Cause,” was one which resonated deeply within the hospice community.

Volunteers from all walks of life have come together with one shared purpose: supporting patients and families through some of life’s most difficult moments.

“Once I come in that door in the morning and go home in the evening, all my troubles are parked outside,” reflected one volunteer Gerry, when thinking about the friendships and sense of purpose volunteering has brought into his life.

“It’s just a wonderful place — wonderful staff, wonderful volunteers, overall wonderful people.”