CCH 2019 Volunteer Spotlight: Karol Tinken

Meet Karol Tinken, Campbell County Health Home Health and Hospice volunteer, and member of the Hospice Advisory Board, in Gillette, Wyoming.

Karol has been a CCH volunteer since 2007, and has given 600 hours to support both hospice patients and staff members.

Her passion for hospice began when her sister entered hospice care in Casper, Wyoming 14 years ago. Karol’s sister realized that she could no longer live at home as her health declined, and Karol spent a lot of time in Casper as her sister neared the end of her life. After her sister’s death, Karol knew she wanted to volunteer for CCH Hospice because she believes in what hospice care stands for.

At first Karol helped with clerical duties like mailings. She attended hospice training and completed bereavement classes, and began volunteering for events like the Service of Memory and Hope. Now she is the co-chair of the annual Hospice Family Picnic, along with Mary Beltz; and serves on the Hospice Advisory Board. One of Karol’s favorite things to do is to cook meals for the families of Hospice patients.

“It really fulfills me and hopefully helps them out too,” says Karol.

Karol has lived in Gillette since 1973, and she taught second, fourth, fifth and sixth grades in the Campbell County School District for 33 years.

In addition volunteering, Karol keeps busy by working as needed at the library in the Children’s Area. She enjoys reading, playing bridge and just being outdoors. Karol has a daughter Stacey, son-in-law Jamie, and two grandsons, Jarodan and Preston.

Hospice Social Worker Melisa Haddix says that Karol doesn’t realize the impact she has on others.

“She doesn’t get to see the appreciation from the families she helps with meals, and she does it anyway,” said Melisa. “Karol not only cooks a main dish, but a side dish, dessert and bread—she even takes requests. It really takes the load off the family, so they don’t have to worry about cooking and can just enjoy time with their family member.”

Karol embodies the spirit of volunteerism; giving her time for the opportunity to help others. Thank you for helping our Hospice patients and families enjoy their time together.

If you're interested in learning more about volunteering with CCH, please contact Volunteer Coordinator Chris Buxton at 307.688.1536 or visit www.cchwyo.org/volunteer.