Front Desk, Full Hearts: The Friendship That Greets You at Pathways
At Pathways, volunteerism is rooted in compassion — but sometimes, it also blossoms into something even more beautiful: friendship.
For Mary and Tonia, what began as a desire to give back has grown into a partnership that has quietly supported patients, families, staff — and each other — for years.
Mary’s Story: Hospice Is in Her Roots
Mary is a retired nurse whose connection to hospice runs deep. Her mother was the first hospice nurse in Fort Collins — long before hospice was widely understood or embraced.
Years later, when both of Mary’s parents became patients at Pathways, she experienced firsthand the same compassionate care her mother had once helped pioneer. After recovering from back surgery and moving to Fort Collins, Mary began volunteering.
That was 32 years ago.
Today, Mary assists with reception and is a member of the Board of Directors. Her steady presence, calm demeanor, and deep institutional knowledge make her a gift to everyone who walks through the doors.
Tonia’s Story: Gratitude Turned into Service
Tonia’s introduction to Pathways also came through her parents. Both her mother and father received care here, and the experience left a lasting impact.
After they passed, Tonia found herself looking for meaningful ways to give back. With a background in school nutrition services, she understood service and organization — but what she really carried with her was gratitude.
She began volunteering 11 years ago and never looked back.
A Wednesday Tradition
For years — they estimate five or six, though neither can quite remember — Mary and Tonia have shared Wednesday front desk shifts.
But to call them simply “co-volunteers” would miss the heart of their story.
They are true partners.
Tonia comes in early to get Mary set up for the day — pulling out her favorite music and making sure her beloved Twizzlers are ready. When asked why she does it, Tonia’s answer is simple:
“Because Mary is amazing.”
Mary, in turn, always makes sure Tonia has lunch. It’s a quiet, mutual rhythm of care — the same kind of care they offer to patients and families, extended naturally to each other.
Their partnership isn’t just about answering phones or greeting visitors. It’s built on a shared desire to support not only those receiving care, but the staff who provide it.
They joke that they share both a “common love for Pathways” and a “common back pain.” Beneath the humor lies something deeper — shared experiences caring for their own parents, navigating their own health challenges, and choosing to continue showing up anyway.
Friendship at the Front Desk
Volunteering together has made their experience more joyful. What could feel like a shift feels instead like time spent with a dear friend.
They love the people.
They love the passion.
And yes — they love the free cookies.
But most of all, they love being part of something meaningful.
Their story is a reminder that volunteer appreciation isn’t just about recognizing hours served. It’s about celebrating the relationships built, the lives touched, and the quiet ways volunteers care for one another behind the scenes.
Mary and Tonia embody what makes Pathways special: compassion that extends in every direction — to patients, to families, to staff, and to fellow volunteers.
If you’ve ever considered volunteering, know this: you may come to serve.
You may stay because it matters.
And if you’re lucky, you might just find a partnership like Mary and Tonia’s along the way.
Pathways offers a variety of ways to become involved in clinical and non-clinical roles within our community. The We Honor Veterans Volunteer Program gives those interested special ways to honor the service of our veterans at the end of life. To learn more about volunteer opportunities with Pathways, visit https://pathways-care.org/volunteer/ or email Lauren Dewey, Volunteer Services Coordinator, at lauren.dewey@pathways-care.org.