Concord Hospital's End of Life Companions Program receives award

The End of Life Companions Program at Concord Hospital was recognized as Outstanding winner in the Volunteer Champion category at the 2023 Spirit of NH Awards hosted by Volunteer NH. This award honors outstanding nonprofit/public service organizations and businesses with volunteer programs that provide the infrastructure for volunteers to be successful in service.

The End of Life Companions Program was established in 2002 in response to a growing awareness of patients passing without a family member or loved one by their side. Volunteers are trained to provide a compassionate and soothing presence for patients nearing the end of their lives. The program has made a significant impact with an overwhelming amount of commitment from volunteers who give their time and compassion freely.

“This award is a great compliment to all our wonderful volunteers without whom this program would not exist,” said Kate Morse, Chaplain at Concord Hospital. “Concord Hospital has a long-standing commitment to caring for the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of patients. Our End of Life Companions volunteers continue to meet this need with skill, compassion and dedication; they are truly outstanding.”

A total of 45 volunteers work two-hour shifts, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. They have various materials available to them, including soothing music, poetry books and prayers from specific religions to bring comfort to patients.

The Spirit of NH Awards is an annual celebration that recognizes volunteerism throughout the state by casting a spotlight on those who go above and beyond the call to serve.

Concord Hospital is a nationally accredited, not-for-profit health system providing comprehensive acute-care services, primary and specialty care, and health and wellness programs. The Hospital is one of three Level II Trauma Centers in New Hampshire. As a regional health resource for primary and specialized care, Concord Hospital provides comprehensive diagnostics, sophisticated treatment and support for more than 50 medical specialties and offers the latest medical and information technology. Specialty services include the Cardiovascular Institute, Orthopaedic Institute, Payson Center for Cancer Care, Urologic Institute, Women’s Health Services, Breast Care Center and Walk-In Urgent Care.