Celebrating International Volunteer Day: How Mike Zanski Brings Hope and Comfort to Gilchrist Families
At Gilchrist, our volunteers are the heart of our mission, bringing compassion, kindness, and consistent support to those in need. On this International Volunteer Day, we are thrilled to spotlight one of our most dedicated and inspiring volunteers, Mike Zanski.
A Shining Star at Gilchrist
Mike Zanski joined the Gilchrist family in July 2023, and his impact was immediate. Within two weeks of onboarding, Mike took on his first assignment and has been a steadfast source of support ever since. In just a year and a half, he has touched countless lives, bringing comfort to patients and their families across home visits, Senior Living Communities, and Gilchrist Center Howard County.
Mike’s dedication goes above and beyond. Whether it’s Vet-to-Vet visits, Caring Calls, or participating in the innovative Gen-to-Gen initiative, his willingness to step up wherever needed is inspiring. Recently, he even responded to a Doula request in Westminster, exemplifying his commitment to serving with compassion.
Gena Johnson, our Volunteer Services Administrative Coordinator, praises Mike’s contributions: “If I could, I would clone Mike 20 times over! His joyful spirit, humor, and positivity shine brightly, making a profound difference in the lives he touches. He’s truly an incredible blessing to Gilchrist and every family he serves.”
From Military Service to Compassionate Volunteer
Mike’s journey to volunteer at Gilchrist is deeply rooted in his remarkable life experiences. He spent five years in seminary before embarking on a 53-year career with the Department of Defense, including 35 years of active-duty service in the Navy. His inspiration to volunteer came from his military connections and personal experiences with caregiving for a close friend, a 102-year-old WWII veteran, during his final year of life. “After that experience, it became intuitively obvious to me that this is what I was being called to do in my retirement years,” Mike shares.
The Rewards of Volunteering
Mike’s first assignment reaffirmed his calling, teaching him the profound impact hospice care has not only on patients but also on their caregivers and families. He emphasizes that the lasting impact of hospice services is with those who remain, offering them solace and support during a deeply challenging time.
When asked what he finds most rewarding about volunteering, Mike says: “The realization that no matter what we do, great or little, it all matters to the patients and their caregivers. There is nothing we do that is insignificant or meaningless—it all matters.”
Words of Wisdom for Future Volunteers
Mike encourages anyone considering hospice volunteering to start with the online orientation course and shadow an experienced volunteer to gain firsthand insight. He notes that even the smallest contributions can have a monumental impact, making a lasting difference in the lives of patients and families.
Looking Ahead
As Mike continues his journey with Gilchrist, he is eager to find more time to volunteer at the in-patient center, caring for those in their final moments. His passion for serving others and his commitment inspire all of us at Gilchrist.
Thank You, Mike!
On this International Volunteer Day, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to Mike Zanski and all our incredible volunteers. Your dedication and compassion embody the spirit of Gilchrist, bringing light and hope to so many during their most vulnerable moments.
Thank you for everything you do, Mike—you truly make the world a better place!
To learn more about Gilchrist’s volunteer services, visit: https://gilchristcares.org/volunteer/