Embracing Community: Tri-Cities Chaplaincy’s “Yay-Day”

Finding time to give back to the community can be challenging in the hustle and bustle of everyday work life. Recognizing this, Tri-Cities Chaplaincy added a “Yay-Day” to the benefit package. This program offers qualifying employees a dedicated day off to volunteer in the community, separate from their vacation and sick leave. It’s a win-win for both employees and the community we serve.

Ionne Ott, Quality Assurance Coordinator,
Connected with Fed 24 community members that night before sharing my personal testimony in a large group
and leading small group at Celebrate Recovery.

The Concept of “Yay-Day”

“Yay-Day” is more than just a day off; it’s dedicated to making a positive impact. Employees are encouraged to step away from their regular duties and immerse themselves in volunteer activities that resonate with them. Whether helping out at a local shelter, participating in a community clean-up, or mentoring youth, the possibilities are endless. The aim is to empower employees to contribute meaningfully to causes they care about.

Volunteering has been shown to boost mental well-being, enhance job satisfaction, and foster a sense of fulfillment. By providing this dedicated time, Tri-Cities Chaplaincy demonstrates its commitment to the holistic well-being of our staff, promoting a culture of compassion and community involvement.

Garnet Philleo, Hospice House CNA
Volunteered at Pasco First Ave Center and packaged frozen meals, along with fruit and milk for
seniors in their homes. 

Impact on the Community

The ripple effect of the “Yay-Day” extends far beyond the individual. Local organizations receive much-needed support from our employees, who actively participate in various community projects. This influx of volunteer hours can significantly enhance these organizations’ capacity to serve their clients and achieve their missions.

Matthew Harrington, Staff Chaplain
Mentored and chaperoned youth in leadership and teamwork at Saint Macrina’s Classical Academy
Randy Berglund, Marketing Specialist
Replanted the community garden at Tri-Cities Cancer Center

Volunteerism in the Tri-Cities

The Tri-Cities area’s culture of volunteerism is prominent and vibrant. Many community members dedicate their time and energy to supporting local causes and organizations. Tri-Cities Chaplaincy, a non-profit that relies heavily on volunteer hours, deeply understands the value of this community spirit. By recognizing and participating in this culture of giving, the chaplaincy fulfills its mission and strengthens its ties within the community.

Tara Divers, Director of Philanthropy
Tara helped sell flowers at the annual flower sale that benefits St. Joe’s School, supporting their
Montessori Pre-School and other school programs.

Living Your Best Life at Tri-Cities Chaplaincy

“Yay-Day” is a testament to Tri-Cities Chaplaincy’s dedication to social responsibility and employee engagement.

In essence, “Yay Days” are more than just a day off work; they’re a celebration of community spirit, a boost to employee morale, and an opportunity to truly live your best life at Tri-Cities Chaplaincy.

Careers at Tri-Cities Chaplaincy

Learn more about careers at Tri-Cities Chaplaincy and the benefits offered.

What Does Spiritual Care Mean for Hospice Care Services?

Hospice care is an all-encompassing service provided at the end of life, designed to offer comprehensive support to patients and their families. When someone enters hospice care, they are supported by a multidisciplinary team that includes healthcare professionals,...

Bereavement Support in Tri-Cities WA: Why Grief Care is Crucial for Adults and Children

Losing a loved one can be one of the most challenging experiences we may encounter in our lives. The pain, sorrow, and overwhelming emotions that come with grief can be overwhelming, especially for both adults and children. In times like these, having the right...

Choosing a Hospice Provider in the Tri-Cities

Finding the right hospice provider is crucial when it comes to providing quality end-of-life care for your loved ones in the Tri-Cities area. With numerous hospice options available across Richland, Pasco, Kennewick, and surrounding areas of Benton and Franklin...

Three Signs Your Loved One Needs Palliative Care

As a hospice provider, our mission is to provide compassionate care for individuals facing serious illness. In this article, we will explore the signs that indicate your loved one may benefit from palliative care.   While palliative care may be provided for any...

When is Hospice Care Recommended?

Many people are unsure about hospice care and may delay seeking it, which can impact both patients and their families. In this article, we will explore the different aspects of hospice care, signs indicating the need for it, transitioning to hospice care,...

End of Life Care: What is Hospice Care and Palliative Care?

End of life care is a sensitive and crucial part of a person's journey. It involves providing physical, emotional, and spiritual support to individuals who are approaching the end of their lives. Hospice care and palliative care are two options that offer specialized...

Expand Your Grief Library

Learning about loss and grief through reading can be incredibly beneficial and healing. It can help understand emotions and feelings of grief through stories, narratives, and similar experiences. Books provide a safe space for you to explore the difficult times you...

Honoring the Past, Embracing the Future: New Year’s Reflections on Grief

It’s easy to get caught up in New Year's resolutions. The expectations of “new year, new me!” or “this year will be different,” and even, “this year I will…”. One on hand, resolutions can be a great kick-start to something we’ve wanted to change or implement. On the...

What is a Qualified Charitable Distribution, and What Are the Benefits?

At 73, individuals are generally required to withdraw a set amount (called a Required Minimum Distribution, or RMD) from their retirement account holdings each year. If the RMD is not met, the amount not withdrawn could be taxed at rates up to 25%. If you find...

What is Hospice Care?

Many people have heard the term “hospice care” but are often unfamiliar with the benefits of hospice, or unsure of when to begin receiving care. Tri-Cities Chaplaincy is here to answer all your hospice questions. What is Hospice Care? Hospice is a Medicare-certified...

Learn more about Hospice House

Located in Kennewick, WA, our Hospice House was built through generous community support in 1996 and is the only Hospice House in Benton and Franklin Counties. The Hospice House has 10 private rooms, where patients and their families can receive care in a comfortable, home-like setting when home is not an option.