Olds & District Hospice Society

A dedicated community collective in the Mountain View County area, we are committed to supporting Hospice Palliative Care services. Our mission involves offering hospice, bereavement, and NavCARE assistance to individuals and families facing palliative and/or chronic illness, as well as providing support during times of loss and grief. To accomplish this, we rely on a compassionate team of trained volunteers who lend their expertise and care to those in need.

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Our
Mission

To provide quality, compassionate care in a home like setting for those facing death by offering physical, psychological, emotional, spiritual and educational support to individuals, their families and community at the end of life and during bereavement.

About Us

In the autumn of 2007, a group of five compassionate individuals with diverse backgrounds and personal experiences came together to discuss hospice palliative care services in the Olds and surrounding area. Each member had journeyed alongside a loved one nearing the end of life, offering them a unique perspective and understanding. These shared encounters varied from profoundly uplifting to exceptionally challenging.

Motivated by their collective wisdom and fueled by their heartfelt connections, they embarked on a shared mission to explore avenues for enhancing hospice palliative care in our community. Recognizing the crucial need for improvement, they dedicated themselves to researching and pursuing possibilities that would elevate the standard of care available to those facing end-of-life journeys.

This remarkable group of individuals set out on a transformative path, driven by their personal encounters and guided by a profound desire to make a difference. Their initial conversation served as the catalyst for positive change and ignited a passionate pursuit of enhancing end-of-life care for all in our area.

Their unwavering dedication and tireless efforts laid the foundation for the growth and advancement of hospice palliative care services. Through their collective expertise and unwavering commitment, they fostered a compassionate environment where individuals and families find solace, support, and dignity during life's most vulnerable moments.

Today, their vision and advocacy continue to shape the landscape of hospice palliative care in our community. The impact of their actions resonates, bringing comfort and understanding to countless individuals in need. Their unwavering pursuit of better care has transformed the experiences of those facing end-of-life journeys, ensuring that compassion and support are readily available.

As we reflect on their initial gathering, we honor the profound impact these remarkable individuals have had on our community. Their courage, empathy, and determination have paved the way for a more compassionate approach to end-of-life care, forever leaving an indelible mark on the lives of those they sought to serve.

Meet Our Staff

Mary Smith
Executive Director

In 2019, Mary Smith became the Olds & District Hospice Society's first Executive Director. With deep roots in the Olds community for over 20 years, Mary, along with her family—husband Todd, children Faith, Neo, Christian, Ryder, and dog Kaida—has been an integral part of the community. Her personal experiences supporting loved ones during end-of-life journeys fueled her passion for hospice work and highlighted the importance of hospice support.

Mary's appointment as Executive Director has brought a new era of compassionate leadership to the society. Her genuine empathy and firsthand understanding of the impact of hospice care have guided her in enhancing end-of-life experiences. Under her guidance, the society has evolved, offering vital services and unwavering support to individuals and families navigating this challenging phase.

Mary's deep connection to the community and unwavering dedication have made her an invaluable asset to the Olds & District Hospice Society. Her commitment to improvement of all aspects of the Society has touched the lives of many, offering hope and dignity during difficult times.

Cindy Palin
Services Coordinator

In October 2022, the Olds & District Hospice Society welcomed Cindy Palin to their team. Cindy's lifelong passion for music and words began at an early age, shaping her journey as a professional musician, songwriter, and faith-inspired author. Alongside her roles as a wife and mother, Cindy brings her creative talents and heartfelt compassion to her work with the society.

Cindy's faith serves as a guiding force, fueling her deep sense of compassion and empathy for both clients and volunteers affected by chronic and terminal illnesses. Her presence offers invaluable support, providing solace and understanding during challenging times.

With her unique combination of artistic expression and unwavering empathy, Cindy contributes to the well-being of those served by the Olds & District Hospice Society. Her passion and dedication enrich the lives of clients and volunteers, fostering a sense of hope and connection throughout their journeys.

Charlene Wilson
Administrative Assistant

In June 2022, the Olds & District Hospice Society welcomed Charlene Wilson to their team. Charlene, residing in Olds with her husband Frank and daughter Kaitlynne, brings her exceptional administrative talents and gifts to ensure the society's operations run smoothly.

Charlene's meticulous organizational skills and dedication support both clients and volunteers, enabling the society to provide effective care and assistance. Her valuable contributions behind the scenes help maintain a well-structured environment where individuals receive the support they need during challenging times.

With her commitment to excellence and passion for serving others, Charlene plays a vital role in the Olds & District Hospice Society. Her administrative expertise and unwavering support contribute to the overall success of the organization, enhancing the lives of clients and volunteers alike

Jonathan Smith
Nu2u Supervisor

As of January 2023, Jonathan Smith became a valued member of the Olds & District Hospice Society. With a wealth of experience in volunteer management, team building, public speaking, and coaching, Jonathan brings a diverse set of skills to the organization.

His unwavering commitment lies in fostering a safe, efficient, and enjoyable environment at Nu2U Thrift Store, where he strives to create a culture of respect and fun. Embracing the exciting and challenging opportunities that lie ahead, Jonathan looks forward to making a positive impact within the society.

Jonathan's expertise in volunteer management and his dedication to cultivating a supportive atmosphere make him a valuable asset to the Olds & District Hospice Society. His passion for creating engaging experiences for volunteers and customers alike adds a vibrant dimension to the organization's endeavors.

Our Services & Programs

One on One Bereavement Support

Mondays 1pm – 4pm, in which you can book single sessions with a trained bereavement facilitator

Bereavement Support Groups

Spring and fall. These sessions are facilitated by trained Bereavement facilitators and are eight weeks in length. Before each group there will be an opportunity to meet with facilitators and learn more about the program. For more information on the groups and support please feel free to contact Cindy Palin, Services Coordinator @ 403-586-9992

Grief Walks

Spring and fall. Grief walks are an eight-week series of gentle walks that brings together people moving through the shared experience of loss with the intent that they will find support from each other, their community and their time in nature. All walks are between 1.5 to 2km round trip on relatively flat, pathways in and around the Olds/Didsbury area.

Hospice Suites

Our Hospice Suites are available for families facing an end of life journey. The Hospice Suites offer a cozy environment for our clients and families in need. The hospice suites provide place for families to share in the client’s final journey with the support of our hospice volunteers if needed, all of which is offered at no charge to the individual or family.

A Way Forward (Day Hospice)

Our organization strives to uplift and empower individuals by offering encouragement and support. We foster meaningful social connections and provide opportunities for personal growth through a range of activities. Moreover, we enhance access to diverse community resources, ensuring individuals can tap into the assistance they need. In a warm and welcoming environment, we also provide nourishing meals that evoke a sense of home. Recognizing the importance of caregivers' well-being, we offer respite services to provide them with a much-needed break.

Nav-Care Program

Nav-CARE ‘s specially trained volunteer navigators help improve the lives of people living with chronic/terminal illness by creating connections to community services and resources and providing caring, compassionate emotional and social support. Linda’s story started out by accessing NavCARE support for her mom, and transitioned into Hospice support.

A Family’s Video

Donate Your Car

Donate a Car Canada accepts Vehicle Donations for Olds and District Hospice Society. Free towing is provided in most areas across Canada, or you can drop off your vehicle to maximize your donation. When you donate your car, truck, RV, boat, or motorcycle to Olds and District Hospice Society through Donate A Car Canada, it will either be recycled or sold at auction (depending on its condition, age and location). Donate a Car Canada will look after all the details to make it easy for Olds and District Hospice Society to benefit. After your vehicle donation is complete, you will receive a tax receipt and we will put your gift to good use. Please click here to donate a vehicle.

Volunteer with the society on our board, committees or direct client support