REM Award Honorees (2016) — Jackie Reny (Hospice Volunteers)
Jackie Reny has been a Direct Care Volunteer for Hospice Volunteers of Waterville Area since 2014. Recently, she has added the role of supervising the furniture pickup and delivery for our HVWA Resale Shop.
Jackie lives in North Vassalboro with her husband Peter. They have been married for 20 years. She has two grown daughters, Michelle and Katherine, and her three other young women who are like daughters to her, Tina, Debbie, and Beth. She has two grandchildren, Izzy and Davis.
Jackie’s mother taught her to care for other people at a young age and to look for the little things that are special to others. Jackie watched and carefully learned. Those early lessons helped Jackie to become the outstanding woman that she is today.
Jackie enjoys being involved with many antique car clubs. She coordinates tours for the Down East Chapter of the Model T Ford Club of America. She has met many wonderful people and toured all over Maine. Animals are a passion for Jackie. She especially loves horses. On her small farm, she had the pleasure of introducing many young people to their very first ride. Priceless!
Several years ago Jackie was asked if she would occasionally help an elderly couple. Jackie said she would help out until they found someone. Seven years later she was still there. . . . I think they stopped looking.
When people ask Jackie, “How can you sit with a dying person?” she always says, “I get much more than I give. The power of a smile and a hug are easy to give. Everyone should try it!” Jackie is always quick to point out that she could not do this work without the love and support of her husband Peter.
Jackie’s quick wit and winning smile make her a joy to work with. It is with great honor that we introduce her as Hospice Volunteers of Waterville Area’s REM Community Volunteer Award Winner of 2016.
For more information about Hospice Volunteers of Waterville Area, please visit its website.