Tutors Apply Writing Skills To Aiding Hospice Patients

By Hope Bishop

While many students realize the benefits good writing skills provide in the classroom, they may not realize the impact such skills could have when combined with community service. 

In the winter 2008 semester, sophomore Jamie Wendorf and junior Chelsea Smith, a pair of SVSU Writing Center mentors, took their skills to local hospice sites through the Living through Literacy program. 

The students displayed interest in participating after Saginaw’s Southern Care Hospice contacted Writing Center Director Diane Boehm in search of volunteers. 

The program allows volunteers the chance to visit hospice centers and work with patients on writing projects. 

 “I joined because it sounded rewarding and I knew I could grow from it,” Smith said. 

“I got involved because I had been trying to find a volunteer organization to work with, Wendorf said. “When I heard about Living through Literacy, it just clicked. It was the first time I had the opportunity to work with the elderly, but I have loved it since.”

Jeanne Butzin, the volunteer coordinator for Southern Care “Hearts of Hospice” Volunteers said, “Living through Literacy is a wonderful opportunity to be a blessing to someone in their final days...It leaves [families] with a lasting treasure and gives a chance for the next generation to get to know someone they may not have otherwise, with the written heirlooms.”

Volunteers write obituaries, autobiographies, short stories, and make scrapbooks for patients. 

Opportunities also exist for volunteers who do not wish to participate in writing intensive activities. They may read to patients, go on walks with them or assist the hospice centers with administrative duties.  

“I have helped write short stories, an autobiography and am currently working on a scrapbook,” Smith said. “I also play the piano for residents in the lounge.”

Wendorf made a scrapbook for a patient and was able to collaborate with his wife during the process.

Smith recognizes the wide-reaching value of Living through Literacy. 

“It is very beneficial for the patients, their families and the volunteers,” she said. “It lets the patients know that people still care about them and increases their self-worth.

“Also, it gives them a chance to reminisce. Their families are able to gain a sense of closure and create a strong support system. The written heirlooms provide a way for memories to live
on and are really something they cherish.”

Smith and Wendorf’s goal is to turn the program into a Registered Student Organization for the winter 2009 semester. They are applying for a Foundation Grant from the University and have contacted nursing, psychological, English, and social work professors to let them know about the program. 

They hope to involve more students and have had four nursing students recently join.

“Working with the elderly has changed my perspective and helped me see that there is more to the world than going to college,” Wendorf said. 

“I’ve grown so much emotionally, even academically,” Smith said. “It’s a great opportunity to build relationships. You really learn about priorities and what really is the most important thing in life.”