Susan Ponder-Stansel, President and CEO, Community Hospice of Northeast Florida Inc.
Mission
To improve the quality of life for patients and their families, and to be the compassionate guide for end-of-life care in our community.
Serving Jacksonville
Community Hospice was established in 1979 as the first community-based, nonprofit hospice program in Northeast Florida.
Those served
Community Hospice helps more than 1,000 patients live better with advanced illness each day in Baker, Clay, Duval, Nassau and St. Johns counties through the support of more than 700 employees and nearly 900 volunteers. The nonprofit organization has served more than 59,000 children and adults - at home, in long-term care facilities, hospitals and through four inpatient centers throughout Jacksonville. Community Hospice Foundation generates philanthropic and community support for patient care services, family needs and community programs such as Community PedsCare, a pediatric palliative and hospice program. No one is ever denied care because of an inability to pay.
Biggest challenge
Making sure the organization is well-positioned to fulfill its mission to this community, especially in light of future adjustments due to health care reform and changing reimbursement. This is a time of change and challenges for all providers within the health care industry.
Biggest satisfaction
Hearing from people who say that we helped a loved one get the comfort and support they needed at the end of their life. Knowing we made things better confirms that everything that goes into this job is worthwhile.
Hometown
I was born in Orlando, but I have lived in St. Augustine most of my life. Yes, I’m a Florida native.
Your first experience with community service
I worked as a candy striper at the old Flagler Hospital (on Marine Street, which was since torn down) in St. Augustine.
Your job before Community Hospice
Assistant director at the St. Johns County Council on Aging in St. Augustine.
Upcoming events
Halloween Doors & More, Oct. 16, Jacksonville Expo Center at the Fairgrounds, to benefit Community PedsCare.
Halloween Doors & More Sneak-Peek Preview Party, for adults, 6-9 p.m., Oct. 14.
For information about the events, call 886-3883.
Contact information
www.communityhospice.com 268-5200