March 7, 2022
Henry “Hank” Newman, a volunteer with The Elizabeth Hospice, is the recipient of the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization (NHPCO)’s 2022 Patient and Family Service Volunteer Award. He was honored at NHPCO’s Leadership and Advocacy Conference in National Harbor, MD on March 7, 2022.
Hank has dedicated his life to enhancing the well-being of others. After retiring from a career working with adults with learning disabilities as a skills trainer, program manager and administrator, he began volunteering his time with The Elizabeth Hospice, caring for people nearing the end of their life’s journey. Hank has devoted more than 3,200 hours of service to The Elizabeth Hospice as a patient volunteer over the past 17 years, providing patient companionship and caregiver relief.
“Hank approaches every experience with an open heart and an open mind. He prides himself on having the ability to tune into a person’s interests and create a situation that allows them to pursue those interests. This kind-hearted individual has touched the lives of people from all walks of life – treating each one with kindness and compassion,” said Anna Shultz, Volunteer Manager for The Elizabeth Hospice. “Through all the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, Hank stayed connected with our organization and kept hospice at the forefront of his life. When in-person visits were not possible, Hank maintained contact with his patients and their families through telephone calls. We are grateful that Hank has chosen to share his time and talents with us.,” continued Anna.
“I’ve been very fortunate in my life,” said Hank. “I’m in a position where I can be of service to others. Many think it takes a special type of person to be a hospice volunteer. But I believe everyone has the talent and skills to offer comfort and support at this important time in the lives of patients and their families.”
“Volunteers are an integral part of every hospice organization, and these selfless people truly represent the best of what we can be. That’s why we celebrate the volunteers who demonstrate remarkable service, compassion, and commitment in service of hospices in their communities. Their gift of caring has a profound impact on patients, families, and the communities they serve, and we cannot thank them enough for the support they provide,” said NHPCO President and CEO Edo Banach.
“Hank is an incredible asset to our organization, and we are so fortunate that he has chosen to share his time and talent with us,” said Sarah McSpadden, President and Chief Executive Officer for The Elizabeth Hospice. “Volunteers play an important role at The Elizabeth Hospice, providing services we otherwise could not offer.”