It's a long road from banking to managing volunteer services for Hospice of Michigan in Ludington, but it's one Jean Taylor has never regretted taking. Jean was first introduced to Hospice as a volunteer in 1987, when she was working in a management position at a bank. Nine years ago, she joined the staff and now oversees the activities of nearly 80 volunteers.

Like so many others associated with hospice, Jean's life has been personally touched by the organization: Her father-in-law was a hospice patient. "Unless you experience hospice and the support they provide, it's hard to understand how important it is," she says. Although she describes herself as a "behind-the-scenes person" at HOM, she loves "being out in the community and talking about our work. If I can reach even one person who might need hospice services, it's worth it."

That compassion comes through when she shares stories about the special people who work and volunteer for HOM. "Most people come to HOM because they've been touched by it. One volunteer in particular stands out, because he's such a wonderful story of someone who has come full circle. This volunteer was always a very quiet man. After his wife died he'd be so choked up when he talked about her. Now he just sparkles. His laughter is genuine. Just being around him makes everyone feel good," she explains.

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