On Thursday April 30, 2026, Alderwood of Davidson County (AODC) hosted its Annual Volunteer Appreciation Dinner to celebrate the extraordinary contributions of the individuals who serve as the heart of the agency. The event, held during National Volunteer Month, served as a powerful reminder of the vital role community service plays in supporting patients and families throughout their journey of care. The evening was highlighted by the announcement of the prestigious 2026 North Carolina Governor’s Volunteer Service Award, presented to long-time agency volunteer Kaye Blackwelder.
A Year of Unprecedented Growth
The event celebrated a landmark year for AODC Volunteer Services. In 2025, 50 volunteers, including 23 new recruits, dedicated their time and talents to the agency’s mission. Together, they contributed a total of 3,821 service hours, representing a 74% increase in hours over the previous year, and providing more than $128,000 in cost savings to the organization.
The impact on patient care is particularly significant. In 2025, volunteers provided 2,599 hours of direct support, marking a 76% increase over the previous year. Through the Hearts for Hospice initiative, volunteers assembled and delivered more than 300 Valentine’s Day care packages to patients at Alderwood of Davidson County’s Hinkle Hospice House, the only in-patient hospice care facility in Davidson County, as well as delivering to local skilled nursing facilities, and home care settings. Volunteers also worked closely with the We Honor Veterans program to prepare and deliver gifts to Veteran patients and participate in the Wreaths Across America event.
“Our volunteers do not just give their time; they give their hearts,” said AODC Volunteer Services Manager Elizabeth Mitchell. “In 2025, our volunteers maintained a service level of 8.29%; well above the 5% Medicaid requirement, ensuring that our patients and their families never feel alone in their journey.”
State Recognition for Kaye Blackwelder
The evening’s highest honor, the North Carolina Governor’s Volunteer Service Award, was presented to Ms. Kaye Blackwelder. This prestigious award recognizes individuals who make significant contributions to their community through exceptional commitment and compassion.
Ms. Blackwelder has been a cornerstone of Alderwood of Davidson County since 2012. Over the last 13 years, she has become an indispensable presence, contributing 1,705 hours between 2019 and 2025 alone. Known for her commitment and reliability, Kaye volunteers every Wednesday, managing critical administrative tasks, maintaining volunteer records, and ensuring that bereavement cards are sent to families.
“Ms. Kaye serves as a bridge between where we have been and where we are going,” noted Mitchell during the event. “Her quiet dedication ensures that every family we serve feels remembered and supported.”
Looking Ahead: Join the Family
As AODC moves through 2026, the agency aims to further decrease the waitlist for patients to be paired with a volunteer and expand volunteer recruitment efforts. Recent satisfaction surveys reflect the strength of the program, with 100% of volunteers agreeing that their time is well-utilized and 95.8% strongly agreeing that the AODC staff is supportive.
One volunteer captured the spirit of the program perfectly: “We really do feel like a part of the AODC community and family.”
Alderwood of Davidson County invites community members to experience the “love and joy” of service through a variety of meaningful roles. Opportunities include providing direct patient companionship and respite for caregivers, assisting with administrative tasks and bereavement support, or helping with campus garden maintenance, and special events like the annual golf tournament. Whether you are interested in working behind the scenes or directly with families, there is a place for you in the AODC family.
To learn more about these opportunities or to complete a volunteer interest form, please visit alderwoodhealth.org/volunteering/.