Hospice volunteer coordinator retiring

Mary Foor is training Lindsay Anderson to take her place

January 24, 2008|By MARLO BARNHART

HAGERSTOWN ? Lindsay Anderson's first experience with a hospice organization was in Florida and involved her grandfather.

"It was a very positive experience," both for her grandfather and for her, Anderson said.

Anderson, 25, brings that strong foundation with her as she prepares to take on the job of volunteer services coordinator at Hospice of Washington County Inc.

A resident of Frederick County, Anderson previously worked at a psychiatric rehabilitation center as supervisor of residential programs.

"I supervised the staff in that job," Anderson said.

While still a student at James Madison University, Anderson worked for two years as a community service coordinator, placing volunteers where needed.

She graduated from James Madison with a bachelor of science degree in psychology.

Anderson will be learning the ropes at Hospice of Washington County from her predecessor, Mary Foor, who is retiring after nearly 16 years.

Anderson will supervise volunteers of all ages

"We have a large core of volunteers, about 150 of all ages," Foor said. As testament to that, Foor said, there is a youth volunteer who is a junior in high school and another volunteer who is nearly 90 years old.

Hospice provides services to people with terminal illnesses as well as to their family members for up to 13 months after the person's death, depending on the family's wishes.

Foor said Anderson's duties will include recruiting, training and supporting volunteers, as well as matching them with hospice clients.

Anderson also will work with special needs clients in such areas as massage therapy, beautician services, musicians and specialized services for hearing-impaired clients.

Foor said she recalls a volunteer in years past who attended the 24-hour hospice training with his hearing-ear dog.

"Pet therapy may be next for hospice clients," Foor said.

A surprise breakfast Jan. 21 served to say "thank you" to Foor and to welcome Anderson at the 747 Northern Ave. hospice headquarters.

"I am very excited to get started," Anderson said.

Foor said she was looking forward to a trip to Greece, taking sign language courses and babysitting for her grandchildren.

For more information on Hospice of Washington County, call 301-791-6360.

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