Volunteers needed to support vets at end of life
No Member Dies Alone program offers companionship
Michigan Veteran Homes is looking for volunteers to join the No Member Dies Alone program, highlighting the need to offer companionship and assistance to veteran members who are entering the final stages of life.
Through the program, volunteers provide comfort at the bedside when family and friends can’t be present. According to MVH, acts of kindness — such as holding a member’s hand, talking, listening, reading or playing music — help each member feel more comfortable and ensure no one should have to face the challenge of death alone.
MVH is seeking volunteers to join the No Member Dies Alone program at all three of its communities, including the facility located in Chesterfield Township.
“Volunteers are an important part of our team that provides care and comfort to our veteran members as they enter the final stages of life,” Jodi Thompson, director of psychosocial services and quality of life for MVH, in a news release. “While there are several things volunteers can do to promote relaxation and lessen pain, sometimes it’s as simple as being present. We hope to grow the program at each of our three Homes so that our veteran members receive the support they deserve.”
In addition to the regular volunteer application process, anyone desiring to serve as a vigil volunteer will also have a special interview to determine fitness for the No Member Dies Alone team. Sensitivity and compassion are crucial, and team members must feel reasonably comfortable interacting with those nearing death.
MVH provides all the training necessary including orientation sessions on member privacy regulations, bedside protocol, communication skills and self-care. Opportunities to follow experienced volunteers are also offered.
“When I retired from a
very fulfilling 40-year career as an educator, I knew I needed to find something to do that had meaning and purpose,” Mike Micele, a Vietnam veteran and NMDA volunteer, said in the release. “Joining the NMDA program has been one of the most powerful and life-changing experiences of my life. It is truly spiritual work. In some cases, these veterans don’t have friends or family present so to be there and tell them they are loved and there is nothing to fear is beyond words.
“The best gift we can give a dying member is our time, presence and love. This is work that needs doing and
demands our best.”
Those interested in volunteering can apply at Michigan Veteran Homes at Chesterfield Township, located at 47901 Sugarbush Road, and are asked to direct all inquiries to Volunteer Coordinator Maxine Butler at 586-2569921 or butlerm13@michigan.gov.
The other two MVH communities are located in Grand Rapids and Marquette.