Hospice Of The Chesapeake Brings Together Local Nonprofits

When Hospice of the Chesapeake moves back to the old neighborhood this summer, they’re bringing a whole bunch of friends with them.

“Through collaborations with local nonprofits like Partners In Care, Providence Center, Woods Church, Maryland Therapeutic Riding and the SPCA we intend to enhance the lives of those living with advanced illness,” explained Michael McHale, president and CEO of Hospice of the Chesapeake.

One of the area’s most respected nonprofits, Partners In Care, is already occupying one building at Hospice of the Chesapeake’s new location at 90 Ritchie Highway. The other two buildings on the six-plus acre campus are currently being renovated for Hospice of the Chesapeake’s mid-summer move.

“We’ve been in the new space on Ritchie Highway since January of 2012, completely rent free,” beamed Linda Dennis, member services coordinator for Partners In Care. “Michael McHale and the Hospice team coordinated with 21 contractors who donated $76,000 worth of renovations to make the space fit our members’ needs. It’s been an incredible blessing to our organization.”

Additionally, the Arnold-based Providence Center, which serves adults with developmental disabilities, has volunteered to plant and landscape Hospice’s new Ritchie Highway property.

“We’re always looking for ways to increase the independence and hone the skills of the adults in our program,” said Audra Harrison, director of community relations for Providence Center. “We’re excited about the opportunity to beautify the new campus and make it a warm and inviting place for members of our community.”

Woods Memorial Church has also greatly impacted Hospice of the Chesapeake for the better. For terminally ill patients, the spiritual support offered by the Woods staff is indispensable. “It’s a privilege to go into someone’s home with prayer and anointing with the sign of the cross,” said Woods Memorial Church Associate Pastor Nancy Lincoln-Reynolds.

Lincoln-Reynolds emphasized that hospice care is about recognizing each patient’s stage in life and creating opportunities for each family member to meaningfully communicate with a loved one facing terminal illness.

“I ministered to a man who wanted to see his son who lived across country,” added Lincoln-Reynolds. “The father was gravely ill. He couldn’t speak or even open his eyes. But once his son arrived and he heard his voice, he was at peace and passed within the hour.”

To learn more about Hospice of the Chesapeake and its many partnerships with local nonprofits, visit www.hospicechesapeake.org.