It's Volunteer Appreciation Week!

This week is National Volunteer Appreciation Week, and Hope Cancer Resources is joining dozens of other nonprofit organizations in our area who are thanking their volunteers for their service. We are fortunate to have dedicated volunteers working in our office, at our events, and with patients at Highlands Oncology Group clinics. We regularly receive thanks from patients and families to pass along to our volunteers. With a caring gesture or kind word, they make a vital difference in the lives of people going through one of the most stressful and frightening times of their lives. 

Our volunteers go through a training process that includes introduction to the Strengths Perspectives method of communicating in an emotional support setting. Strengths Based practice uses peoples' personal strengths to aid in recovery and empowerment. It's about reframing personal perception to find good even in the worst situation. The volunteers are also trained in "active listening", positive interactions and how to be supportive and encouraging in their contact with patients. Our volunteers act as an extension of our emotional support staff, and provide invaluable patient comfort to those undergoing cancer treatment in Northwest Arkansas.

But our volunteers are not only providing beneficial services to our patients, they are receiving benefits in return. In 2007 a publication called The Health Benefits of Volunteering: A Review of Recent Research found a significant connection between volunteering and good health. The report shows that volunteers have greater longevity, higher functional ability, lower rates of depression and less incidence of heart disease.  The report is available online here. 

Here's a video featuring volunteers Conjie Williams and Art Thrun, and Lisa Russell, a nurse at Highlands Oncology Group, sharing why they volunteer and the impact of their work:

One of our volunteers shared a personal story with us recently. She has worked with us for several years helping coordinate one of our special events. At that event, we provide statistics on the services we provide, we have patients share their stories, and we honor an individual making a difference in Northwest Arkansas cancer care. This volunteer has heard this information every year, but it wasn't until she started volunteering in our office that the impact we have on individuals battling cancer in our community really hit home. Through her tears, she shared her "lightbulb moment" and how much she appreciates being able to help us fulfill our mission of providing

compassionate, professional cancer support and education in the Northwest Arkansas region today and tomorrow.

As you can tell, we are proud of our volunteer corps. And in case you're wondering - we always have room for more. Bring a friend and join us for the next volunteer orientation meeting scheduled for April 19th. Learn more about our volunteer opportunities and how you can make a difference in only a few hours a month. Contact Christy Scarrow, Coordinator of Volunteer Services, at 479-361-5847 for more information.