The end of the year is often a time for reflection—a chance to pause and consider what matters most.
At Hospice of the Piedmont, we’ve also been reflecting on our unique role in our community, especially in light of recent national headlines that have highlighted the differences between nonprofit and for-profit hospice care.
A New Yorker article, an episode of Last Week Tonight, and a study in the Journal of the American Medical Association have all highlighted troubling practices at some for-profit hospices, from profit-driven care decisions to lower caregiver satisfaction rates. While these stories don’t paint the complete picture of all for-profit hospices, they raise important questions about what quality end-of-life care should look like—and who it should serve.
This prompted us to ask:
What makes a nonprofit hospice like Hospice of the Piedmont essential to a thriving community?
Hospice of the Piedmont (HOP) has been a proud part of Central Virginia since 1980. For nearly 45 years, we’ve stood alongside patients and families during life’s most challenging moments, providing care and comfort when it’s needed most.
As we prepare to celebrate our 45th year, we want to reflect on the vital role HOP plays in our community—and how our nonprofit status, along with the generosity of our donors, has made this work possible over the last four and a half decades.
A Hospice That Belongs to the Community
As a nonprofit organization, Hospice of the Piedmont belongs to the community it serves. Every dollar we receive is reinvested into programs and services that benefit patients, families, and the region.
Our Board of Directors isn’t made up of faraway advisors focused on shareholder returns. Instead, it consists of local leaders who guide decisions to prioritize patients over profits.
“As a nonprofit, every decision we make is about what’s best for our patients, their loved ones, and our community,” says Nancy Littlefield, our CEO. “We’re focused on our mission, not our margin. This allows us to concentrate on what truly matters: providing the highest quality care and support to those who need us.”
Indeed, as a nonprofit, our commitment extends far beyond bedside care. Last year, our Community Education and Outreach team hosted more than 100 events attended by over 3,000 people. Programs like Death Over Drafts and advanced care planning sessions dispel myths about hospice care and empower families to plan for the future.
“Our work helps people see hospice as more than just end-of-life care—it’s about support, comfort, and time to focus on what matters most,” explains Hannah Barton, our Community Navigator.
Volunteers also play a critical role in making hospice care personal and meaningful. Last year, 190 volunteers donated over 5,700 hours, providing companionship, music, and practical support to nearly one-third of our patients. Programs like our Death Doula initiative—where trained volunteers supported over 60 patients—showcase how deeply our community cares for its own.
A Hospice for Everyone
In a thriving community, care is never limited by someone’s financial or social circumstances. At Hospice of the Piedmont, we believe everyone deserves dignity and compassion.
Our Hospice House is a perfect example of this commitment. It’s a place where people receive 24/7 expert care during the final stages of life. In one room, you might find a former CEO; in the next, someone who was unhoused. Both are treated with the same respect and care.
Community support makes this possible. Last year, community philanthropy provided more than $1 million in charity care at our Hospice House and Center for Acute Hospice Care, covering room, board, and around-the-clock care for those in need.
“The Hospice House is a sanctuary for patients and families during their final journey,” adds Michelle Robinson, our Hospice House Manager. “It’s a place of peace, love, and connection, with the comforts of home.”
Beyond bedside care, programs like our Serenity Fund awarded more than $45,000 to 46 families last year. These grants covered everything from funeral expenses to transportation and other end-of-life costs, ensuring no family faced unnecessary burdens.
“Every patient deserves the same dignity and respect, no matter their financial situation,” says Dr. Alina Fomovska, our Chief Medical Officer. “Nonprofit hospices ensure that expert care is not a privilege—it’s a right.”
Programs That Go Beyond the Basics
Being a nonprofit allows Hospice of the Piedmont to offer experiences and programs that go beyond traditional hospice care.
- Supportive Music Program: More than a dozen musicians provide live music tailored to patients’ needs, offering moments of peace and connection.
- Veterans’ Services: Volunteers perform pinning ceremonies to honor veterans and recognize their service.
- Kids’ Grief and Healing Program: Last year, this program supported over 200 children and families through camps, art therapy, and teen groups.
Philanthropy drives these programs. “It’s what allows us to dream bigger and do more,” says our Chief Marketing and Development Officer, Jenn Downs. “Being a nonprofit hospice makes this higher level of care possible.”
A Legacy of Care
As we approach our 45th year, Hospice of the Piedmont is proud to be part of a community that values dignity, connection, and compassion.
By supporting a strong nonprofit hospice, you’re investing in a vital service that not only serves our neighbors today but may also support you and your loved ones in the future. Hospice is a cornerstone of a strong community—a safety net we can all be grateful to have when the time comes.
“Hospice is about honoring life’s journey,” reflects Chaplain Dr. Ceasor Johnson. “As an African American chaplain, I am always thinking about my legacy and how it connects to our ancestors—many of whom were disconnected from their ancestors. Hospice allows us to set a navigation point for future generations, to ensure they inherit a legacy of love, respect, and expert care.”
Looking Ahead to 2025
As we close out this year and look to new beginnings in the next, we remain committed to our community and our mission to guide life’s final chapter with expertise and empathy.
Because of you—our donors, volunteers, and supporters—we’re building a future where everyone can access the care they deserve. Together, we’re ensuring that Hospice of the Piedmont remains an essential part of our thriving community for years to come.
If you’d like to support our nonprofit mission and the community we call home, please consider making a gift TODAY.
