At Hospice of the Northwest, volunteers provide more than their time—they build meaningful relationships that leave lasting impressions. These connections reflect our mission to help people live with dignity, grace, and purpose during their end-of-life journeys.

Meet Jim Minton

Jim Minton began volunteering four years ago after moving to Anacortes. He became a patient companion and was paired with Edward, a man with advanced Parkinson’s disease. Though Edward communicated only through facial expressions, the two men formed a deep friendship.

“It was just one hour a week, but it was precious to both of us,” Jim recalls. “When Edward took my hand before I left one day, the gratitude in his eyes said more than words ever could. That simple moment will stay with me forever.” Though Jim felt the loss when Edward passed, the experience gave him a sense of fulfillment. “Volunteering has brought me happiness I didn’t expect at this point in my life,” he says.

Meet Melissa Edgett

Another dedicated volunteer, Melissa Edgett, joined five years ago after retiring from a career in construction project management. She has served on the Vigil Team, Veterans’ Pinning Team, and as a patient companion. “People tell me, ‘I could never do that,’ but hospice work isn’t just sad—it’s full of connection and even joy,” she shares.

Melissa especially enjoys working with the Tuck-In Team, which checks in with patients each Thursday to ensure their needs are met for the weekend. “It’s a simple way to prevent small problems from becoming bigger issues,” she explains.

Both Jim and Melissa bring rich histories of service—Jim from his years as a volunteer firefighter and Melissa from her time with Meals on Wheels. Yet they both find hospice work uniquely rewarding. As Jim reflects, “In hospice, you don’t try to ‘fix’ things. You just show up, listen, and connect.”

At Hospice of the Northwest, volunteers like Jim and Melissa embody our mission to offer hope, dignity, and grace to those we serve. Their stories remind us that even in life’s final moments, there is space for meaning, connection, and joy.

You Can Make a Difference

If you feel called to make a difference, we invite you to join us. Together, we create moments that will never be forgotten. To become a Hospice of the Northwest volunteer, please apply online by visiting www.HospiceNW.org/Volunteer/