Hospice of the Western Reserve’s Commitment to Veterans Continues “Level 5” National Recognition

Hospice of the Western Reserve (HWR) is thrilled to announce it has been renewed as a “Level 5 Partner” with We Honor Veterans.  A program of the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization, WHV addresses the growing need for veteran-centric hospice and palliative care. Over the past 18 months, HWR has cared for more than 2,085 veterans through its Peaceful and Proud program.

Level 5 is the highest designation WHV partners can attain and demonstrates an exceptional commitment to addressing the specialized needs of veterans. Last year, HWR became the first hospice in Northeast Ohio to achieve the elite status. Earning re-certification this year required the completion of several activities.
 
“Aside from existing partner requirements, as a Level 5 Partner, we place a greater emphasis on staff education and caring for Vietnam-era and combat veterans,” explained Nate Gradisher, provider relations manager and chair of the agency’s Peaceful and Proud Committee. “We also serve as a mentor to hospice organizations across the country interested in enhancing their programs.”
 
The nonprofit organization’s support extends to veterans in the community as well. Regularly scheduled Virtual Veterans Cafés hosted by HWR enable veterans from all eras and all branches of service to connect virtually for conversation and camaraderie, and to learn more about beneficial community resources.    
 
A key component of Peaceful and Proud are the 55 dedicated veteran volunteers who provide companionship and caregiver support, engage in legacy work and serve as a comforting presence to fellow veterans in their final hours of life. Many also play active roles in volunteer recruitment and community education.
 
“One of the most meaningful ways our veteran volunteers serve our patients is through individual recognition ceremonies to honor and thank them for their service,” said Gradisher. “Although they are typically conducted in person, we shifted gears to a virtual format last year so the ceremonies could continue.”  
 
An especially poignant activity took place on Veterans Day 2020. In the midst of the pandemic, more than 900 individual veterans in the community were recognized with care packages hand delivered by veteran volunteers, HWR staff and community partners.
 
“This was one of the first times we were able to visit veterans in skilled nursing, assisted living and independent living settings,” Gradisher said. “We maintained social distancing and safety protocols but could still see the joy and pride in the eyes of those we recognized for their service.”
 
More information about Hospice of the Western Reserve’s Peaceful and Proud program is available at  hospicewr.org/veterans. To learn more about becoming a veteran volunteer, contact the volunteer services team at 216.255.9090.