Dottie Hull has been a Blair Senior Services, Inc. volunteer for the past 7 years.
Dottie started as a volunteer with Blair Senior Services, Inc. in the Ombudsman Program. Dottie stated, “After I retired as a Registered Nurse, one of my nurse friends asked me to go along with her to see what the program was about. I decided it was something I would like to do.”
Dottie helps with facility visits in Blair and Bedford Counties. Her duties include talking with the residents to make sure their needs are being met and about the care they are receiving. Dottie states, “I also look at the facilities and make sure they are clean, odor free, fire extinguishers are in place, and review the menus. I make sure the residents are being treated with the respect and care they deserve. If they have any concerns, we discuss them and then I bring those concerns to the Ombudsman, Jaime Rose.” Dottie volunteers usually one day a month in Blair County and one day a month in Bedford County, or as needed.
When asked what she likes the most about volunteering for the Ombudsman Program, “With my nursing background this keeps me busy. It gives me something to do and a way of still caring for people. My favorite thing is the people. The wonderful people I work with and the residents,” Dottie said.
Dottie stated there wasn’t any one memory in particular that was special, but the special feeling she gets from helping and being around the residents is what is so special and meaningful for her.
Dottie said she would encourage anyone to volunteer for this program, but especially any retired nurses. She states, “The nursing background just helps you to know what to look for I think. Anyone can learn, but it gives you a better understanding. I encourage anyone to try volunteering for this program. It is a great experience for you and helps people in sometimes a difficult situation.”
If you are interested in volunteering for this program, please call 814-296-6336. For volunteering with any of the other programs at Blair Senior Services, Inc., please call 814-946-1235.