Meet our new Volunteer Manager Genevieve Simati, who has recently joined the team. Having had her husband Tala, cared for in the community by Tōtara Hospice, Gen as she likes to be called knows first-hand what Hospice offers both patients and families. “We spent years feeling like we had difficulty accessing the appropriate medical care and support for Tala, however, once Hospice became involved, we just didn’t have to worry anymore, they helped us with everything we needed. They looked after us. It was such a relief.”
Gen has previously been the National Volunteer Manager at World Vision. She has also worked in adult education and recruitment. All these skills make her the perfect fit to lead the Tōtara Hospice volunteer workforce.
Gen’s deeply personal experience with Hospice is one of the main drivers for her joining the team, and thi
s role gives her the opportunity to help others in the same position. “When Tala was alive, we agreed that we would help Hospice any way we could including sharing our story with Newshub to raise awareness of Tōtara Hospice’s work in the community. Now I get to be a part of the team and continue building our volunteer network.”
Gen’s vision for the volunteer team is to help bring a stronger connection of how each volunteer role, no matter how big or small, leads to the delivery of services that Make Hospice Happen in the community.
“Volunteering is a beautiful way to feel connected with your community and help others at the same time. It’s a win-win situation. I would encourage anyone who has thought about volunteering to contact us. Our volunteers really do help Make Hospice Happen.”
