Teen Volunteer Receives NHPCO Award for Outstanding Service

Christina Solazzo

Christina Solazzo, a longtime, award-winning Suncoast Hospice teen volunteer, has received the prestigious Volunteers Are the Foundation of Hospice Award for outstanding teen service. She was one of three award winners honored for their exceptional, inspirational volunteer service at National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization’s (NHPCO) clinical team conference in Kansas City on Sept. 26.

This award was a major honor for Christina, who’s now attending her freshman year of college. She volunteered with Suncoast Hospice throughout high school giving her heart to our mission. She received our 2013 Suncoast Hospice Volunteer of the Year outstanding student award last spring.

Christina stood out with her compassion, dedication and thoughtfulness to our patients and families. She visited patients at our care centers and local nursing homes, bringing cheer, companionship and comforting music. Her service also included fundraising, special events, community outreach and office and resale shoppe support. She did all this while excelling academically and serving on her school’s teen council board. She was an inspiration to other teen volunteers.

Watch Christina in her video acceptance speech talking about the impact her hospice volunteerism had on her life, including a story of her endearing relationship with one special patient.

Do you know a teen who wants to make a difference? Check out our opportunities with our teen volunteer program.