About Us

Our History by Year

2007

In the autumn of 2007, five community members gathered to discuss hospice palliative care services in Olds and surrounding areas. With diverse backgrounds and personal experiences, they shared a common bond of having journeyed alongside loved ones nearing the end of life. Some experiences were inspiring, while others were challenging.

Motivated by these encounters, they embarked on an investigation to enhance hospice palliative care in our area.

To kickstart their efforts, the group sought guidance from Dr. Eric Wasylenko, an Alberta palliative care physician. They also connected with representatives from Covenant Care and visited residential hospices in Okotoks, Calgary, and Red Deer. These visits provided valuable insights and inspiration for their mission.

Together, this dedicated group of individuals set out on a journey to improve hospice palliative care, armed with knowledge, compassion, and a shared vision for enhanced end-of-life support in our community.

2009

In the spring of 2009, the group reached out to Dr. Scott Odie at Red Deer College, establishing a crucial connection. Together, they collaborated on designing a comprehensive survey, aiming to capture the experiences, expectations, and valuable insights from residents in Bowden, Carstairs, Cremona, Didsbury, Olds, Sundre, and Mountain View County. Additionally, they engaged in meaningful discussions with local palliative care physicians, Home Care nurses, Palliative Care Resource Nurses, and other healthcare professionals, fostering a collective effort to gather input from various perspectives.

The survey results, combined with overwhelming support from the professional community, served as a catalyst for the group's unwavering determination.

Although they encountered obstacles along the way, they remained resolute, never experiencing a closed door.

Through their collaborative efforts, the group forged ahead, fueled by the voices of the community and the unwavering support of healthcare professionals. Their journey exemplifies resilience and an unyielding commitment to improving hospice palliative care services for the benefit of all.

2010

In January 2010, the Olds & District Hospice Society (O&DHS) received official approval as a registered society. With this significant milestone achieved, an interim board promptly commenced their work, focusing on formulating Terms of References for committees and laying the groundwork for essential policies.

By October 2010, the society had made notable progress, marking a significant moment with the inaugural General Meeting of the O&DHS. During this meeting, the first board members were elected, signifying a crucial step forward in establishing a dedicated team to guide the society's initiatives and fulfill its mission.

The approval of the society's registration and subsequent formation of the board laid a strong foundation for the Olds & District Hospice Society's journey. This marked the beginning of a collective effort to provide compassionate care and support for the community, setting the stage for the society's transformative work in the years to come.

2011

In April 2011, the Olds & District Hospice Society achieved a significant milestone as it was granted charitable status. This important recognition further solidified the society's commitment to its mission and provided the foundation for continued growth and support within the community.

With charitable status in place, the society gained increased opportunities to engage with donors, secure funding, and expand its reach to better serve those in need of hospice care and support.

This achievement marked a pivotal moment in the society's journey, affirming its dedication to making a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals and families facing end-of-life journeys.

2012

In September 2012, a significant milestone was reached for the Olds & District Hospice Society when they were able to employ a Services Coordinator. With invaluable financial assistance from the Alberta Government's Community Initiatives Program, this position was established to address the specific needs of clients seeking palliative care.

The primary objective of the Services Coordinator is to provide essential assistance to clients in accessing necessary palliative care services. This includes coordinating the efforts of dedicated O&DHS volunteers and fostering collaborative partnerships with caregivers throughout the district. By working closely with clients, volunteers, and caregivers, the Services Coordinator plays a pivotal role in ensuring seamless and compassionate support for individuals and families in need.

The addition of the Services Coordinator represents a significant step forward in the society's commitment to enhancing the quality of palliative care in the community. Through the invaluable support provided by the Alberta Government's Community Initiatives Program, the society can better meet the unique needs of clients and foster meaningful connections between all stakeholders involved in the care journey.

2015

In January 2015, a significant expansion was made to the model of care with the addition of a sixth pillar. This momentous step involved the establishment of two dedicated hospice suites at Sunrise Encore in Olds, which is now known as Season's Encore. These hospice suites offer a valuable alternative for individuals and families navigating their end-of-life journeys.

By providing these specialized suites, the Olds & District Hospice Society broadened its scope of support, ensuring that individuals in need of end-of-life care have access to a comforting and compassionate environment. These hospice suites serve as a meaningful option for those seeking a place of solace and support during their final stages of life.

The inclusion of the hospice suites at Sunrise Encore, now Season's Encore, reflects the society's ongoing commitment to expanding and enhancing the range of services available to the community. By offering this additional avenue for end-of-life care, the society continues to fulfill its mission of providing comprehensive support and comfort to individuals and families during this profound and sacred time.

2019

In August 2019, the Olds & District Hospice Society achieved a significant milestone by successfully hiring an Executive Director, thanks to the generous financial support from the Alberta Government's Community Initiatives Program. The role of the Executive Director is to provide oversight for the society's administration, programs, and strategic plans, ensuring effective operations and impactful initiatives.

In November 2019, the Society introduced Nav-Care as a valuable addition to their program offerings, becoming an integral pillar of their services. Nav-Care serves as a comprehensive support program, further enhancing the society's commitment to providing holistic care for individuals and families facing end-of-life journeys.

To strengthen their services and expertise, the Olds & District Hospice Society conducts up to two palliative care volunteer training sessions annually, along with three Nav-Care training sessions and two bereavement facilitators programs. Over time, nearly 150 individuals have received this specialized training, enabling them to contribute their knowledge and compassion to the community.

Recognizing the growing needs and aspirations of the community, the society established an advisory committee dedicated to exploring the possibility of constructing a standalone hospice building. This committee also seeks to identify additional avenues for expanding the society's capacity to serve the community effectively.

2022

In June 2022, the Olds & District Hospice Society achieved an important milestone by successfully employing a part-time Administrative Assistant. This crucial addition to the team plays a vital role in ensuring the smooth and efficient functioning of the society's office operations.

With the assistance of the Administrative Assistant, the society is able to maintain a well-organized and streamlined office environment. From managing administrative tasks to providing valuable support, this role contributes to the overall effectiveness and productivity of the organization.

By securing the services of a dedicated Administrative Assistant, the Olds & District Hospice Society further strengthens its commitment to delivering high-quality services and support to the community.

This significant development enhances the society's ability to fulfill its mission and meet the evolving needs of individuals and families facing end-of-life journeys.

2023

In January 2023, a notable expansion occurred within the Olds & District Hospice Society as they incorporated the Nu2u Thrift store into their operations. This strategic move allowed the society to enhance their services and broaden their reach within the community.

Following this integration, in

February 2023, the Society made another significant step by appointing their first-ever Nu2u Supervisor. This newly created position plays a pivotal role in overseeing the operations and management of the Nu2u Thrift store, ensuring its seamless integration into the society's overall mission.

With the inclusion of the Nu2u Thrift store, the Olds & District Hospice Society has now expanded to encompass a total of four dedicated staff members. These professionals work collaboratively to support the society's diverse initiatives and provide essential services to individuals and families in need.

In addition to their dedicated staff, the society is fortunate to have the steadfast support of a remarkable team of 110 volunteers. These compassionate individuals selflessly contribute their time and skills, playing a vital role in the society's success and the delivery of their invaluable programs and services.

Through the strategic expansion of their operations and the commitment of their staff and volunteers, the Olds & District Hospice Society continues to make a profound impact in the community.

The SEVEN Pillars

1. Contact Base

The Olds & District Hospice Society is a point of contact. We can meet where is convenient for you or in our office. Telephone calls are answered within 24 hours.

2. Information Base

Navigating through the health care system can be exhausting. Who do I look to? Where do I find help? What is going to happen next?

3. Volunteers

Olds & District Hospice Society offers trained volunteers:
* for respite care
* for support in home or facility
* to assist with transportation
* to run errands
* for companionship
* connect to resources

* access & research best options available

* assist with feelings of loss, isolation and hopelessness

4. Bereavement Support

O&DHS provides individual and group support.

5. Communication / Advocacy

* for individuals and their families and friends; journeying with them
* supporting other communities launching similar initiatives
* maintaining regular contact with many levels of government to partner in “sharing the care”.

6. The Suites

Our suites provide the option for people facing a palliative journey to remain in our community in a home-like setting when staying in their own home is not an option. Located in an assisted living facility in Olds, these suites are offered for respite or to end of life.

7. NavCARE support

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.

Nav-CARE stands for Navigating and Connecting, Accessing, Resourcing and Engaging

Volunteer

"Alone we can accomplish little; together we can achieve so much." - Helen Keller

Volunteers play a crucial role in our organization, contributing their time and skills in various areas such as providing companionship to clients, governance, communications, fund development, organization, and advocacy.

At the Olds & District Hospice Society, we are fortunate to have over 120 dedicated volunteers. As our society continues to grow and extend its reach, we are actively seeking additional volunteers to join our compassionate team, helping us make a positive difference in the lives of individuals in need.

We believe that everyone has unique talents and abilities that can be utilized to be part of our extraordinary and meaningful organization. Running a non-profit requires the collective efforts of many talented community members.

If you are passionate about making a difference and embody our mission of "Helping People Live," we encourage you to get involved. Reach out to our office at 403-586-9992 for more information on how you can contribute your skills and become a valued member of our team.

Together, we can create a powerful impact and provide vital support to individuals and families during their end-of-life journeys.

Time Sheet

Expense Form