Opportunities From: HIRTA Helps

Veteran-to-Veteran Volunteer Opportunity
Serve Those Who Served
At WesleyLife Hospice, we believe that those who have worn the uniform share a bond unlike any other. Our Veteran-to-Veteran Volunteers honor that connection by offering presence, understanding, and support to hospice clients who are fellow veterans.
Why Veteran Volunteers Are So Important
Veterans often feel most comfortable sharing their stories, memories, and experiences—especially those from their time in service—with someone who has walked a similar path. Your presence can bring peace, validation, and deep connection during a profoundly meaningful chapter of life.
Support as a Veteran-to-Veteran Volunteer
As a veteran volunteer, you will have the opportunity to:
Companionship & Conversation
Spend time talking, reminiscing, or simply sitting together in quiet companionship with hospice clients who served their country.
Respite for Caregivers
Offer short periods of relief for family caregivers so they can rest, run errands, or take a needed break—knowing their loved one is with someone who understands military life.
Veteran Pinning Ceremonies
Play a key role in our We Honor Veterans program by participating in or assisting with our veteran pinning ceremonies. These ceremonies recognize and honor a veteran’s service, creating a moment of gratitude and dignity for the veteran and their family.
Many volunteers consider these ceremonies one of the most profoundly moving parts of their service.
About Our We Honor Veterans Program
WesleyLife Hospice is proud to participate in We Honor Veterans, a national initiative that focuses on respectful inquiry, compassionate listening, and veteran-centered care.
As part of this program, our veteran volunteers help ensure that every hospice veteran receives:

The honor and recognition they deserve
Opportunities to share their military journey
Specialized emotional support
A meaningful, personalized veteran pinning ceremony
Your shared military background enhances this work in a way no one else can.
Flexible Scheduling That Fits Your Life
Whether you’re available once a month or weekly, we’ll work with your schedule. Even small amounts of time can have a lasting impact.
Where We Serve
WesleyLife Hospice provides care in Pella and surrounding communities, including Boone, Dallas, Jasper, Madison, Marion, Marshall, Polk, Poweshiek, Story, and Warren counties. Many clients are located at the Cottages in Pella, but we meet veterans wherever they call home.
Hear from Lindsey, a WesleyLife Volunteer
"Being a volunteer for WesleyLife Hospice means the world to me. I’ve been through hospice with family members, and now I can make the experience better for others. The best part is being there for someone who might not have anyone and letting them know they’re not alone."
Ready to Serve Your Fellow Veterans?
Your military experience can bring comfort, companionship, and honor to veterans in their final chapter of life.
Contact Diana Ferriss, Volunteer Coordinator

In Pella, community and caring go hand in hand. WesleyLife Hospice invites you to share that spirit by giving the gift of time and presence to neighbors who need it most.

Why Volunteer?
Hospice care is about dignity, comfort, and connection. Your simple acts—listening to stories, sharing a walk, playing a game, or offering a warm smile—can bring peace and joy during life’s final chapter.

Volunteer Opportunities:

Flexible Scheduling:
Whether you can give an hour a month or a few hours each week, we’ll work with your schedule.

Serving Marion County and Beyond:
We care for families in Pella and surrounding communities, where strong traditions and neighborly values make every connection meaningful. Many of our WesleyLife Hospice clients are at the Cottages in Pella, but we also serve clients wherever they call home. We also serve the greater Central Iowa area including Boone, Dallas, Jasper, Madison, Marion, Marshall, Polk, Poweshiek, Story, and Warren counties. WesleyLife Hospice is proudly owned and operated in Iowa. 

Hear from Lindsey, a WesleyLife volunteer:
"Being a volunteer for WesleyLife Hospice means the world to me. I’ve been through hospice with family members, and now I can make the experience better for others. The best part is being there for someone who might not have anyone and letting them know they’re not alone."

Ready to make a difference in your community?
Contact Diana Ferriss, Volunteer Coordinator at dferriss@wesleylife.org or 515-229-7366, or fill out our online application today!