About us
We have the largest and most experienced staff of hospice professionals and volunteers in Winnebago and Boone Counties.
History
Founded in 1979, Northern Illinois Hospice and Grief Center was the first hospice in Northern Illinois. Since that time, we have fostered the formation of other hospices and cared for thousands of patients and their families. In fact, we are now serving the third generation of some families. Our history is unique, our staff experience is unparalleled, and our volunteer team is exceptional.
Mission
Not all that long ago, people left this world like they entered it: in their homes, surrounded by their loved ones. With the advent of modern day medical care, much of that more human way of dying has left us. But we at Northern Illinois Hospice believe that it doesn’t have to be this way.
Our mission is to provide a way for people to experience the final stages of their lives in the comfort and convenience of their own homes. We explain that dying can be an opportunity for the whole family to share positive experiences, rather than only sadness, pain, and loss. Our goal is to empower people to cherish the final chapters of their lives and to help them … live every moment.Services
Our care is offered no matter your gender, age, sexual orientation, nationality, race, religion, disability or diagnosis, and we accept individuals regardless of their payment source. Northern Illinois Hospice and Grief Center is a non-profit, tax-exempt organization and is licensed by the Illinois Department of Public Health as a comprehensive hospice and is Medicaid and Medicare certified.
Our tradition of caring ensures that we:
- Accept patients from many referral sources.
- Provide respectful and superior healthcare.
- Help patients live fully and comfortably.
- Provide an expert team of professionals for each patient.
- Support patient and family decisions.
- Offer bereavement services for family and friends for 13 months following the death of the loved one.
Staff
At Northern Illinois Hospice, we recognize that it takes compassionate people to be in this line of work. Our staff understands that death is more than the loss of an individual. It is also about relationships — intense, complex, overwhelming, beautiful relationships. Our staff learns from each patient and family, and sometimes feels as though they have gained more from the experience than their patients.
The same holds true for our volunteers — wonderful, caring individuals who share the desire to help people who are going through a very difficult time. Hospice volunteers give in many different ways — with direct patient care and by helping out around our office: filing, typing, painting, stuffing envelopes, mowing grass, answering phones, and serving on committees.
To inquire about joining our staff or about becoming a volunteer, visit our Contact us page and select the appropriate category.