Spring 2026 Newsletter
As we move into the warm months of spring, we find ourselves in a season of renewal and reflection. The months behind us have been filled with meaningful moments, shared successes, and the everyday acts of care that make a lasting difference. Together, we’ve continued to show up with compassion, resilience, and dedication—supporting patients, families, and one another in ways that truly matter.
Spring brings a fresh sense of energy and possibility. With it comes the opportunity to keep growing, to serve with purpose, and to embrace the many meaningful moments still ahead. It’s a privilege to be on this journey together, and we’re grateful to continue alongside each of you.
Introducing the New Volunteer Experience Coordinator of Veteran engagement and onboarding
We’re pleased to welcome a candidate who will play a key role in recruiting and engaging military veterans across our 16 service areas. He has already begun building strong relationships with local posts, attachments, and VFW organizations—laying the groundwork for deeper connection and outreach within the veteran community.
Richard Brown is a former Marine Corps officer, leadership coach, and business leader with a passion for developing high-performing, mission-driven teams.
A certified John Maxwell coach, published author, and Ironman finisher, he brings energy, experience, and a deep commitment to serving others in his role as Volunteer Experience coordinator for Veteran Engagement and Onboarding.
Update: The Dorion Family Pediatric Center
Volunteer Stats
Oct-May 2024 FY Stats
Filling over 97% of volunteer requests, filling an average of 150 requests monthly.
5% Mandate for CHPC Volunteer Utilization
(a savings of over $748,710.52)
Annual Volunteer Appreciation Recap
We were delighted to celebrate the heart of our mission—our volunteers—at this year’s Annual Community Hospice Volunteer Appreciation events. Held across three locations—North Central, Jacksonville, and St. Johns—each gathering was filled with gratitude, connection, and well-deserved recognition.
We were honored to hear from our President and CEO Phil Ward and Chief Compliance and Quality Officer DeAnna Beverly, whose words underscored the profound impact our volunteers have across every level of care. Paired with great food and meaningful fellowship, the events offered a special opportunity to recognize the compassion and dedication that define our volunteer community.
We were also proud to introduce our new HERO Program, celebrating those who go above and beyond in service to others. A highlight of the celebrations was recognizing our Gap Award winners and our Volunteer Recruiting Volunteer nominee, Cheryl Houston, whose passion and commitment continue to strengthen and grow our volunteer efforts.
Thank you to all who joined us, to every department that helped make these celebrations possible, and to each volunteer who brings comfort, care, and kindness to those we serve. You truly make a difference.
North Central Volunteer Appreciation
Left to right Volunteer Coordinators: Victoria Foster, Julie Ha, Carolyn Neloms, Jennifer Buenavista and Community Partner Sothea Tith prepare for guests at the NC volunteer appreciation.
Julie Ha and Northcentral volunteers getting ready for photo booth
Left to right Volunteer: Jake Rattner, Aaron Tran, Rhyan Parrish, Ashley Brooks
Left to right: Volunteer Kyla Cartwright and Chief Compliance and Quality Officer DeAnna Beverly
Left to right: Volunteers: Crenel Francis, Sophia Lin, Anaya Wills, Gennion Owens
St. John's Volunteer Appreciation
Volunteer Registration Table: Interns Lydia Moroz and Khea Samuda; Standing, Volunteers: Stephanie Michael, Carol Hollins and Volunteer coordinator Victoria Foster
Volunteer Coordinator team serving our wonderful St Johns Volunteers; left to right Carolyn Neloms, Lenee Savage, Victoria Foster, Jhana Young, Abby Byanski, Katia Aguilera Ford, Jennifer Buenavista and Julie Ha.
Left to right: Volunteer engagement coordinator with volunteers; Cathy Oliva and Janice Fisher.
Jacksonville Volunteer Appreciation
General Roy S Geiger Marine Corps League Detachment 1047 from Orange Park Presenting the colors at our Jacksonville Volunteer Appreciation.
Appreciation Baskets provided by our Community Hospice and Alivia Care Clinical and Administrative Teams
University of North Florida provided the perfect setting as our President and CEO, Phil Ward shared heartfelt words of gratitude during this year’s Annual Volunteer Appreciation Event. Surrounded by dedicated hospice volunteers, the speech honored the compassion, kindness, and countless hours our volunteers give to patients and families throughout the year. The moment reflected the spirit of service, connection, and appreciation that continues to shine throughout our hospice community
Please click the photo to follow link. Phil Ward created a song for dedicated Community Hospice Volunteers
Left to right Volunteers: Myra Clark, Angela Williams, Cheryl Houston, Dianne Connor Ludwig, Jolita Ray, Diana Kimmel and our Volunteer Coordinator Jhana Young.
Left to right: Volunteers Michelle Morgan, Sandy Koski-Humble, Marion Kane, Linda Kamback, Kimberly Cummings, Cathy Stupski and our Director of Community Outreach Besty Miller.
Left to right: Director of Volunteer Services, Kate Ray and the top Volunteer recruiting Volunteer; Cheryl Houston.
Left to right: Volunteer Coordinator Victoria Foster presenting our GAP award winner for most Front Desk Hours ; Babu Gattupalli.
Left to right: Patient facing volunteer, Barbara Aslop, receiving the GAP award for most hours given to patients during October to December from Volunteer Coordinator Lenee Savage.
Left to right: Volunteer Coordinator Victoria Foster presenting Angela Williams, the GAP award for most hours given to patients during January- March; Angela Williams.
Left to right: Director of Volunteer Services Kate Ray Presenting the GAP award to Susan Yelton for most clerical hours given October through December.
Left to right: Volunteer Coordinator Victoria Foster Presenting our GAP award winner for most clerical hours given January- March; Eleanor Roger.
Left to right: Volunteer Coordinator Victoria Foster Presenting our GAP award winner for most Pet Therapy hours given October – December; Karen Wolfe.
Left to right: Volunteer Coordinator Carolyn Neloms Presenting our GAP award winner for most Pet Therapy hours given January – March; Denise Swanson.
Congratulations Gap Award winner James Hayes for most Front desk hours – McGraw given October – December (Received on behalf of James Hayes by Jhana Young)
HERO Recognition
The HERO Recognition Program celebrates the everyday actions that elevate our work and strengthen our team. HERO stands for a commitment to superior service, personal ownership, and the core values that drive our success together.
This program highlights volunteers who go above and beyond—those who take initiative, lead with compassion, and demonstrate accountability in all they do. It recognizes individuals who not only support our mission but actively enhance the experience of patients, families, and fellow team members.
Through HERO, we shine a light on the qualities that make our volunteer community exceptional and inspire one another to continue delivering meaningful, high-quality care.
New Pet Therapy Volunteers
Celeste Kuo and her Pet Tehrapy Partner Lucky
Lori Reynolds and her Pet Therapy Partner Loki
Michelle Morgan and her Pet Therapy Partner Gabby
January - March Contributions
Pet Peace of Mind Corner
Do you love animals and want to make a difference in someone’s life? Our Pet Peace of Mind program supports patients and their beloved pets, helping ensure both are happy, healthy, and cared for.
Volunteers can help by:
- Fostering pets temporarily
- Assisting with dog walking
- Cleaning litter boxes
- Providing general support to patients with their pets
Your time and compassion can bring comfort to both our patients and their furry friends. Join us in making a meaningful impact!
Administrative Notes
Recruiting New Volunteers
