COMPANY OVERVIEW

The Hospice of the Florida Suncoast was born of the thoughtful pledge made by a few dedicated volunteers nearly 30 years ago -- a pledge to improve end-of-life services for the people of Pinellas County -- a pledge to value all aspects and phases of life.

We've come a long, long way since 1977. With more than 2300 patients a day, we've grown into the largest not-for-profit, community-based hospice anywhere. We're proud of our roots and the many end-of-life innovations and services we've developed and had a hand in. And we're more devoted than ever to putting patients and families first -- to easing pain and suffering -- to assuring that no one need die alone.

Our commitment to each patient and family means honoring their wishes and meeting their needs in terms of cultural traditions, rituals and desires. Moreover, we want always to be a community of learners, constantly striving to expand our knowledge and skills to more completely address the concerns of people who depend on us. As members of the Pinellas community, our staff and volunteers treasure the generous support of area neighbors and are vigilant in acting as faithful stewards of the resources entrusted to The Hospice as it carries out its mission.

OUR VISION
Our primary mission is to provide dignified, quality comfort care that enhances the lives of dying people and their families and assure the long-term mental, spiritual, physical health and general well-being of survivors after loss. We also believe in leading and influencing the health and human services community in the care of all people affected by end-of-life issues, while shaping public opinion and policy on issues related to death, dying, grief and bereavement. We strive to be the center to enhance the quality of life for those affected by death.

OUR ORGANIZATION
The Hospice of the Florida Suncoast is mission driven, guided by community-based boards of directors and supported by a compassionate, professional staff and more than 3,000 committed volunteers. Unlike some hospices elsewhere, The Hospice cares for all people, meeting and exceeding our community's end-of-life needs. Programs, training and services developed here have been adopted and emulated by hospice providers nationwide.

OUR COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY
As a not-for profit, community-based hospice, The Hospice of the Florida Suncoast serves all people regardless of age, diagnosis, race, religion or financial circumstances. Those are more than mere words. In fiscal year 2004, for example, The Hospice provided more than $9 million in uncompensated care to people who otherwise may have died alone or in pain or had no where to turn for end-of-life programs and services. And The Hospice of the Florida Suncoast provides community programs for all residents (not just patients and families), such as bereavement counseling and specialized services to children and families, typically not offered by other hospices