Genesis Hospice Begins Vet-to-Vet Program
Zanesville, OH (Sept. 23, 2014) – Genesis Hospice recently began a Veteran-to-Veteran (Vet-to-Vet) volunteer program. Ben Jennings is the first Vet-to-Vet volunteer, and Genesis Hospice is the only health care system in the area providing this unique type of program for veterans. The innovative model for serving veterans at the end of life pairs recruited veteran volunteers with hospice patients who have been identified as veterans.
Jennings, a Vietnam veteran, was paired with Frank Coon, also a Vietnam veteran. The two veterans quickly became friends. “I enjoy our weekly conversations,” Coon said. “Being able to see someone who shares similar interests makes a world of difference,” he said.
Veteran volunteers have the unique ability to relate and connect with veteran patients and their families. “Talking with other veterans can help the patient relax, boost morale and improve attitudes,” said Rebecca Jenei, R.N., B.S.N., M.A.E., director of Genesis Hospice Care.
Volunteer Jennings recently had the opportunity to honor Coon for his military service during a pinning ceremony. Coon appreciates Jennings’s visits and friendship. “You can send me 100 more people like him,” Coon said.
The Vet-to-Vet program is part of the “We Honor Veterans” campaign by the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization in conjunction with the Department of Veteran Affairs. If you’d like more information about the Vet-to-Vet program at Genesis Hospice, call (740) 454-6364.
Vet-to-Vet volunteer, Ben Jennings, honors Frank Coon with a certificate during a recent pinning ceremony.
