Volunteer Spotlight – Sylvia Flahaut

Meet Sylvia Flahaut

Wings: Tell us a little about yourself.

I was born in Illinois and have lived in Allegan County since age 5. I graduated from Allegan High School and stayed in the area. I was married at 19 and raised two children with my husband, Wally. We used the services of the Wings Home in 2016 when Wally passed away from Leukemia.
I spent most of my working life at Allegan General Hospital, retiring in 2011. I wanted something meaningful to do with some of my time so I started volunteering at the Wings Home and also Allegan District Library “Friends of the Library.” I love to travel, garden and go for walks. Family get-togethers are one of my greatest joys.

Wings: How long have you been volunteering with Wings?

I have volunteered at the Wings Home for 10 1/2 years.

Wings: How did you get started?

After retirement I contacted Wings of Hope. I know not everyone can do this kind of work, and my work experience gives me an advantage. Having worked at Allegan General, I was familiar with illnesses and dying so thought I would give volunteering a try. I have worked with some fantastic volunteers and staff over the years.

Wings: What motivates you to serve with Wings?

I enjoy working with the residents, making their last days as comfortable as possible. Bringing comfort to their families was also so very important to me.

Wings: What’s your favorite things about volunteering?

Being associated with an organization with a good reputation and being a part of an awesome team of professionals and volunteers. Being able to provide for people’s needs. Meeting a variety of new people.

Wings: What would you say to someone who’s thinking of volunteering?

If you’re retiring, or have a little extra time look around and see what you can do. It may not be Wings, but there is a place where you can be helpful. There are projects you can do at the Wings of Hope Hospice office throughout the year also.

Wings: What is a favorite Wings memory?

We had a man from the community that I had known since I was a teenager. It was sad to see him getting weaker every day but he was so upbeat and it was a pleasure to care for him. There are too many other memories to list. The appreciation of the residents and their families makes volunteering worth while.

Posted by Wings of Hope in Stories, Volunteer, Volunteer Spotlight