By LINDSEY BROWN

Heritage Hospice

Juggling a full-time job and serving as a volunteer is no easy feat, but Rebecca Cole-Preston makes it work. When she is not working at Monticello Banking Company, she helps fundraise for Heritage Hospice, Inc. An organization founded by volunteers in the late 1970s, Heritage Hospice, Inc. would not be able to provide end-of-life care throughout Boyle, Garrard, Lincoln, and Mercer counties without the help of volunteers like Rebecca. “I raise money so the agency can do what they need to do – help people,” Rebecca said.

Volunteering has always been an important part of Rebecca’s life. Prior to her work with Heritage Hospice, Inc. Rebecca spent nearly 15 years volunteering with the Tobacco Festival in

Lancaster and Garrard County fair pageants. However, partnering with Heritage Hospice, Inc. impacted her in a way she had not experienced before. “It helped me realize that it’s not all about me,” Rebecca said.

One of the biggest events that Rebecca helps fundraise for is the annual Tea and Treasure event held each November. The volunteer department will come together to host an afternoon tea luncheon complete with guest speaker, WKYT News Anchor, Sam Dick, and a silent auction featuring over 40 items ranging from artwork to jewelry to a University of Kentucky basketball signed by coach John Calipari. Also, over 20 themed tabletops will be auctioned off. Money raised by the Tea and Treasure event will be used by Heritage Hospice, Inc. to continue the many special works of the organization. “When you’re fundraising like this,” Rebecca said, “you get to see that you’re making a difference in somebody’s life.” Without the continued support, time, and dedication of volunteers like Rebecca, Heritage Hospice, Inc. would not be able to have such a positive impact on the community.

This year’s Tea and Treasure event will take place on Saturday, Nov. 10, at Centenary United Methodist Church in Danville. Doors will open at noon for the silent auction with the program following from 1-3 p.m. The price of tickets is $26.50 and only 185 tickets will be sold. If you would like to purchase tickets for the event or would like more information about volunteering, please contact Wendy Hellard or Renee Knies at (859) 236-2425.