Linda Harington hits the 1000 volunteer hour mark!!
From Homecare & Hospice,
ALLEGANY—HomeCare & Hospice is celebrating National Volunteer Week, April 19th-25th, 2026. This annual observance honors the remarkable individuals who give their time, talents, and compassion to support patients and their families in our communities.
HomeCare & Hospice volunteers offer patients companionship and comfort while providing the caregivers relief to run errands, do housework or simply take a nap.
“We truly have such a special group of volunteers that contribute to our mission,” said Melissa Sullivan, CEO of HomeCare & Hospice. “Their selfless acts bring joy, comfort and connection to our patients with each visit.”
This year, HomeCare & Hospice is recognizing several volunteers who have achieved significant milestones in service hours.
Linda Harrington – 1000 hours
Susan Hengelsberg hit 600 hours
Glorian Brennan hit 300 hours
Dawn Greene hit 300 hours
Susan Oakley hit 300 hours
Becky Ebbert hit 200 hours
Nancy Cledgett hit 100 hours
Linda Hughes hit 100 hours
Lisa L. – 100 hours
Susan Seniw hit 100 hours
Suzanne Watson hit 100 hours
“Each volunteer brings something unique to every home they visit,” said Cassie Kelsey, staff and outreach coordinator. “We have some who play instruments for our patients, read them their favorite book or watch their favorite shows with them, they go above and beyond.”
Linda Harrington reached 1,000 hours of volunteering throughout 2025. Inspired by a hospice social worker to become involved, she has been a volunteer with HomeCare & Hospice since April of 2012.
“I enjoy the opportunity to see how families work out the jobs as care givers and the chance to offer suggestions when asked,” said Linda. “It has made me aware of the needs of others.”
After reaching 1,000 hours of volunteering, Linda says the meaningful moments with patients and their families keep her coming back.
“Caregivers and patients seem to really enjoy the break and the company,” said Linda. “The most meaningful moment for me was when a patient took my hand before they passed and said, ‘thank you for making me laugh again’”.
Susan Hengelsberg, patient volunteer for Wyoming county, often plays the lap dulcimer for patients she visits.
“I share a lot of folk music and have learned over many decades that most of the patients would recognize it and bring them memories and joy,” said Hengelsberg. “We see that we make a difference in people’s lives and can help with some additional companionship.”
In addition to patient volunteers, HomeCare & Hospice have office volunteers who assist with tasks as needed. This includes assembling comfort care baskets for hospice patients that contain a washcloth, candy, mouthwash, a wash basin, lap blankets and more.
Becky Ebbert, office volunteer for Cattaraugus County says one of her favorite things is putting together these baskets.
“When I finish for the day, I say a prayer for the person who will open it and hope that this basket will bring comfort and maybe a little smile,” said Ebbert.
We are always seeking compassionate individuals interested in joining our volunteer team across Wyoming, Genesee, Allegany, and Cattaraugus Counties. Whether you have a few hours a week or a few hours a month, there is a place for you in our organization.
To learn more about becoming a volunteer with HomeCare & Hospice, please call 716-372-2106 or email ckelsey@homecare-hospice.org.
