I hope this note finds you well. I am a volunteer for Big Bend Hospice and wanted to share how volunteering for Big Bend Hospice has been an incredibly rewarding and safe experience during a pandemic. While I had reservations at first about becoming a volunteer during a pandemic, BBH’s staff have been kind and accommodating to my concerns and needs.

First the volunteer orientation is virtual, and when this all started, I chose not to go into homes. BBH made it easy to assist in other ways like making deliveries, phone calls, or writing cards. However, I did recently accept my first in-home volunteer assignment and my Volunteer Coordinator, Kelly Williams eased any concerns I had by making sure I had proper PPE as well as she screens the patient/family and myself along with getting our temperatures and reinforcing remaining at least 6ft apart. They also recommend consulting with your primary physician if you have any known underlying health issues.

I have felt extremely safe following the COVID protocols that BBH has outlined. This has allowed me to give caregivers respite as well as connect with patients during this unfortunate time of isolation. This brings me such joy in being able to help a patient/family and is a welcomed distraction from the chaos of the world right now. If you have some extra time and desire to give back to the community please consider Big Bend Hospice you can contact the Big Bend Hospice’s Volunteer Manager, Katie Mandell at 850-933-1878 or visit us online at https://bigbendhospice.org/become-a-volunteer

Kind regards,
Kimberly Kenney
BBH Volunteer and Taylor County Resident