A chance encounter with a longtime medical professional three years ago encouraged Sarah Stiles to start volunteering with Family Hospice, a family-owned Boulder agency that provides compassionate end-of-life care to patients and their families through a personal, holistic approach.

"I knew I wanted to do ongoing, one-on-one work with people from different walks of life if I was going to volunteer," says Stiles. "I never imagined I'd volunteer for so long, but Family Hospice is like a close-knit family that folds you in and encourages you to make a difference. I'm proud to be part of such a passionate, dedicated, and giving organization."

Stiles visits with patients in their homes for a couple of hours a week - she listens, provides companionship, and simply is present with them. "I meet my patients where they are," she says. "You really know you've had an impact when a patient's family thanks you for providing their loved one with care and tells you how much of a difference it made to their quality of life."

Stiles can always reach staff to find out how her patients are doing, and she is encouraged to share ideas related to their care. "The staff makes sure you know your contribution is valued," she says. "They want you to have a strong and positive impact."

Volunteering at Family Hospice has increased Stiles' ability to truly listen and live in the moment. "If you allow your expectations to fall away, you experience something you wouldn't otherwise," she says. "It can be freeing and open you up to a space you didn't even know existed."

For information about volunteering with Family Hospice or other agencies, call the Volunteer Connection at 303-444-4904.