Pastoral Care Units of local hospitals and nursing homes are always in need of people who can volunteer a few hours of time to simply visit with patients and residents. You can set up a single day of volunteering or make a long-term commitment (e.g. each Saturday for six months). Consider your options. A children’s hospital where you can spend the day playing with sick children is more light-hearted. A hospital for the terminally ill is a very different environment, but one where help is needed. A group trip to an elder care facility or nursing home is always a good idea, as the elderly are often quite lonely and vulnerable. Does a young adult in your group have a special skill or talent? Consider putting on a show with singing and dancing, sharing a special hobby, etc. If there are any members of your parish in the hospital long-term, consider making a connection with that facility to make the member feel special and remembered. Also, consider looking into visiting homebound members of your parish; these are often the people who need visitors the most.
