2011 marked 30 years of compassionate end-of-life care provided by Hospice of the Red River Valley throughout eastern North Dakota and northwestern Minnesota. As we begin 2012, we remember our roots with nostalgia and pride, and reflect on the values embraced by our early dreamers and believers—respect for the dignity of people, belief in the quality of life, a willingness to serve and a commitment to caring.

To celebrate 30 years, a collection of stories have been written about our earliest days, cherished memories, community supporters and those who have sustained the organization. We hope you’ll enjoy this collection:

In the Beginning: Staff Memories of Hospice’s Earliest Days
Hospice of the Red River Valley has fulfilled a vital need for dignified, compassionate end-of-life care since its inception 30 years ago. Several staff members have served the organization since its earliest years. Together, they reflect on the changes along the way and the memories they’ve shared as Hospice of the Red River Valley established a reputation for excellence. Read more. 

Pursuing Our Vision of Hospice
Personal experience was the driving force that prompted Dr. Campbell, a physician in Sanford’s Family Practice Department, to become an enthusiastic board member and medical director during Hospice of the Red River Valley’s early days. Read more. 

A Dream More Than Realized
Thirty years ago, a group of visionaries in Fargo, N.D. decided to make their dreams a reality by founding one of the first hospice programs in the region. Co-founder Joy Query recently shared the story of the organization’s grassroots’ beginnings. Read more.

Celebrating 30 Years of Fundraising Events: Pat Maris
Funds raised through special events have played a pivotal role in keeping hospice care available and accessible for the past 30 years. The Roger Maris Celebrity Golf Tournament is one of the longest-standing sources of financial support. Pat Maris, Roger’s widow, recently reflected on the tournament’s beginnings, and the family’s decision to support the work of Hospice of the Red River Valley. Read more. 

Celebrating 30 Years of Hospice Volunteers
Volunteers were critical to the inception of Hospice of the Red River Valley 30 years ago. Today, more than 500 volunteers share their time and kindness with patients and their families. Three of these volunteers— Leona, Gayle and Arlene—have served the organization since its earliest years. During their 56 years of combined volunteer service, they have spent thousands of hours providing companionship and caregiver relief to dozens of patients and families. Read more.

We have been honored to serve the Red River Valley for 30 years. Thank you to the thousands of donors and family members and the hundreds of staff and volunteers who have made this care possible through their support, trust, good will, plain hard work and the desire to do the right thing for individuals seeking peace and comfort at the end of life’s journey.

Do you have memories of your connection to Hospice of the Red River Valley over the past three decades? Please share your story with us through the comments feature.

Happy New Year!