Every Wednesday, Kevin — a gentle, lovable Newfoundland — joins his owner, Tom Kallas, on a heartfelt mission to bring companionship and comfort to those in need. As a Hospice of Michigan (HOM) volunteer, Kevin has become a bright spot for patients and their families, offering a unique kind of care that only a furry friend can provide.

HOM, a nonprofit organization, is calling for compassionate individuals — like Kallas and Kevin — to help patients and families coping with life-limiting illnesses. Volunteers can make a profound impact by offering companionship, support and a listening ear during a vulnerable time.

HOM’s mission is simple: to provide exceptional end-of-life care and comfort wherever patients call home. But this mission is only possible through the efforts of volunteers who give their time and heart.

Ruth Moore-Lilly, HOM’s volunteer program manager, said: “Our patients and their families significantly benefit from their fellow community showing up for them. Regardless of how individuals choose to volunteer, every hour they dedicate helps us provide compassionate care for those with life-limiting illnesses.”

Volunteers making an impact

Volunteers at HOM take on diverse roles, including spending time with patients to provide much-needed companionship.

Kallas, a retired executive from Milford, started volunteering two years ago after his wife noticed a call for volunteers in the local press.“My wife told me about the program, and I reached out to Ruth,” Kallas said. “It’s been an incredible experience. I’ve met amazing people and built meaningful connections.”

Kevin’s visits bring joy and comfort to patients, often sparking smiles and laughter.

“When they see Kevin, they’re so excited,” Kallas said. “He’s a huge dog, and people are often surprised to see what looks like a miniature horse walk into the room. Then, it’s generally sitting by the bedside and talking with the patient about whatever issue might be important to them that day. It could be as simple as just talking about the weather or talking about the Lions. Sometimes, it’s a little bit deeper and more personal to them.”

Kallas’ weekly visits typically last about 30 minutes per patient.

“Knowing you’ve made a positive difference in someone’s life — it’s deeply fulfilling,” he said.

Supporting patients in all stages

For volunteers like McKenna LeCouffe from Wyandotte, who balances her role as a Hospice of Michigan employee with volunteering, the work is not always easy, but it is profoundly meaningful.

“I’ve seen firsthand how impactful volunteers can be,” she said. “For instance, we have vigil visits where volunteers sit with patients who are actively passing. It’s incredibly important for patients who don’t have family nearby. No one deserves to die alone.”

Each patient’s needs are unique, LeCouffe said. Some patients are nonverbal or unable to engage actively, while others are more lively and enjoy activities like playing bingo.

“Meeting patients where they are — whether that’s holding their hand in silence or sharing a laugh — is the most important part,” LeCouffe said. “Knowing that you’ve provided them with companionship and comfort is immensely rewarding.”

Becoming a volunteer

Joining HOM as a volunteer begins with a simple process. Volunteers must complete a six-hour orientation, which can be done virtually, and pass background checks, fingerprinting and tuberculosis tests. Once trained, volunteers are matched with patients based on their location and interests.

“We try to make it a good fit for everyone,” Moore-Lilly said. “Volunteers often connect with patients who share similar life experiences, hobbies or passions.”

Moore-Lilly emphasized that ongoing support is always available for volunteers. From monthly bulletins to educational workshops and even a volunteer book club, HOM ensures that volunteers have the tools and resources they need to succeed.

“Our coordinators are there to guide volunteers through challenges,” she said. “If someone is struggling to connect with a patient, we’re just a phone call away.”

Challenges and rewards

Volunteering for hospice care is not without its challenges. Kallas admitted that working with patients who have advanced illnesses like Alzheimer’s can sometimes leave him unsure if he’s making an impact.

“There are moments when I’m not sure if I’m getting through,” he said. “But the support from Ruth and the team has been invaluable in helping me understand these situations better.”

For LeCouffe, the emotional toll of losing patients is a challenge, but one she approaches with grace and perspective.

“You don’t have to take on a new patient right away,” she said. “HOM allows volunteers to take the time they need to process and grieve. That’s something I deeply appreciate.”

Despite the challenges, the rewards of volunteering far outweigh the difficulties.

“It’s changed my perspective on life,” Kallas said. “When you’re working, you’re often focused on yourself. But volunteering is about giving without expecting anything in return. It’s incredibly humbling and fulfilling.”

LeCouffe agreed, reflecting on how volunteering has influenced her priorities.

“It makes you think about what really matters in life,” she said. “How are you spending your time? What kind of legacy are you leaving?”

The impact of hospice volunteers extends far beyond the patients themselves. According to Moore-Lilly, volunteers provide family members with much-needed respite.

“When a volunteer spends time with a patient, it allows family caregivers to step away for a moment and just be themselves,” she said. “They’re not tied to the illness in those moments; they can simply be a son, daughter or spouse.”

Kallas has seen this impact firsthand.

“I’ve received texts from family members thanking me for what I’ve done,” he said. “It’s heartwarming to know that my visits make a difference not just for the patient, but for their entire family.”

Why you should get involved

For those considering volunteering, LeCouffe and Kallas have simple advice: take the leap. “The training and support from HOM are excellent,” said Kallas. “And the connections you make are life-changing.”

“Everyone deserves to have someone by their side,” LeCouffe added. “Whether it’s playing a game, having a conversation, or simply being a calming presence, you’re making a difference.”

As Moore-Lilly put it: “Every hour our volunteers give helps us fulfill our mission of providing compassionate care. If you’re looking to make a meaningful impact, there’s no better way to start the new year.”

To learn more about volunteering with Hospice of Michigan, visit hom.org/get-involved or contact Moore-Lilly at 248-794-0523.