For nearly ten years, Daniel has faithfully served as the Ohio Living Home Health & Hospice – Greater Youngstown chaplain. He is an award-winning employee who goes above and beyond to provide spiritual care and unending support to those in his sphere of influence. We call him our very own Patch Adams!
Daniel is a natural-born leader and demonstrates these abilities through countless projects that he spearheads and shepherds. His determination to improve the lives of patients, families and staff members throughout Youngstown and Cleveland is unparalleled. He doesn’t just focus on the work, but instead, meets everyone where they are to listen, mentor and offer sound guidance.
In addition to his day-to-day responsibilities, Daniel often leads opening prayers for greater organizational events and meetings, helping to uplift those around him. He conducts veteran pinnings for “We Honor Veterans” programming and Blessing of the Hands ceremonies for partner facilities. Additionally, Daniel hosts funeral services for families without a pastor or clergy. He’s also been known to create activities, such as Wheel of Fortune and resident sing-alongs to keep everyone engaged.
Chief HR Officer of Ohio Living, Dana Ullom-Vucelich, notes, “As the corporate oversight person for spiritual care, Daniel is a best-in-class mission-oriented servant! He is a great peer, leader and spiritual guide for staff, families and those in hospice care. He uses puns and humor alongside inspiration to create needed laughter for our hearts. We are blessed to have him as a part of the Ohio Living family.”
Of his many wonderful qualities, Daniel is never rushed, and never makes anyone feel unimportant. His ability to listen to the “still small voice” is something truly special. Those who work with him believe he is a vessel of Christ - strengthening faith, encouraging others when they need it most, and providing calm in unsettling circumstances.
“Working in a hospice environment, our leadership team is often charged with making very difficult decisions,” explained Sarah Hadley, executive director at Ohio Living Home Health & Hospice – Greater Youngstown and Greater Cleveland. “Daniel makes sure we are well-cared for and prayed for, so we can make them according to the Christian gospel. There have been so many times that his prayers and conversations provided the clear direction we were seeking.”
Daniel’s care and compassion extends beyond Ohio Living. He orchestrates and participates in various community service projects, outreach opportunities and conferences to help those in need. Over the years, he has taken mission trips to Senegal, Mexico, Paraguay and New Orleans to build churches, and helped pack box lunches to send to troops overseas. Daniel is selfless in his work and serves with a greater purpose that others admire. His focus is always for the greater good, and his ideas, events, assistance, direction and wisdom always serve to unite people and glorify God.