Meet Toni Knobloch, Volunteer Services Manager

1. Share with us a little bit about yourself?

I grew up in Northern Maryland in Harford County and have lived in Maryland most of my life with some stints in San Diego, California and some time in Raleigh, North Carolina. While in North Carolina I met my soulmate Keith and we were married in 2014. We were inseparable and he was my best friend. However, in 2016 the trajectory of my life changed. My beloved grandmother passed away and shortly after that my husband Keith passed away suddenly at the age of 38. This ultimately altered the course of my life and in my grief I found a renewed purpose in helping those experiencing death and grief. I wanted to take the painful experience I went through and turn it into a force of good to create more help than hurt and honor Keith’s memory.

I began volunteering for a wonderful nonprofit called Soaring Spirits whose focus is providing support for the widowed community. With a heart for people, especially those who are hurting, I find my greatest fulfillment in volunteering and supporting other volunteers. During my time presenting workshops and volunteering as a social group leader in my area, I returned to school and received a Bachelor in Christian studies. I’m close to finishing my Master of Science in Thanatology which is the study of Death, Dying, and Grief. In my spare time I enjoy volunteering, writing, singing, and spending time with my two dogs and a cat. I also enjoy spending time with my nieces, Cassie and Charlie. They are intelligent, beautiful young ladies who are full of wit and humor and I feel so blessed to live so close to them!

and getting to know them. There is no greater joy than to be able to support and provide training and care for those volunteers who give so much time and effort to see to the comfort of others. Our volunteers are gifted and compassionate and it is my belief that they are the beating heart of this organization.

3. What do you like most about living in this area?

I love the people here because they are kind and devoted to their communities. I love to watch people rally around each other to help those in need and I get a clear picture of that, having the benefit of working at Coastal Hospice. The people here are simply fantastic! I also enjoy living so close to the Ocean as that has always been my happy place.

4. What are your plans for the Volunteer Department?

their most difficult time is my ultimate goal.

2. What compelled you to join Coastal Hospice and what do you love most about your job?

When I began my Master’s degree, Coastal Hospice became my ultimate goal. I saw what hospice did for my grandmother in her final days and the dignity and positivity they returned to her. Seeing the sort of love, care, and compassion that Coastal Hospice brings to those who are transitioning, along with their families is incredible. I wanted to be a part of the beauty and peace they create and the volunteers are a huge part of that! I absolutely adore working with the volunteers

I plan to onboard more volunteers to help support our volunteer program. My intentions are to offer more holistic approaches by adding Aromatherapy Specialists, Sound Healers, Reiki Practitioners, and Meditation Specialists, and provide training for our already stunning team of volunteers. Providing more options for peace and care of patients and families during their most difficult time is my ultimate goal. We will also be adding some licensed beauticians to our team so patients can have someone come and provide a haircut or manicure if they wish. Such simple things can return a sense of self and normalcy to those we serve. I also plan to set up a volunteer mentoring program so that our more experienced volunteers can provide support and guidance for those new to Coastal Hospice Volunteer services. I invite anyone with a heart for people and service to reach out about joining our team! I may be biased, but you couldn’t ask for a better team to volunteer alongside.

You can contact Toni Knobloch, Volunteer Services Manager at tknobloch@coastalhospice.org or by phone: 410-543-2590.