Greencastle, Indiana. A new association has been formed to serve Putnam County residents. The Putnam County Hospice and Palliative Care Association has been created after months of planning by the Putnam Community Foundation, Putnam County Hospital and other community members.

Funding is provided by the Putnam County Hospice Endowment, a field of interest endowment established by former DePauw University faculty member Mary Louise Miller, who died in 2007.

The mission of the Hospice and Palliative Association is to enhance the quality of life and reduce suffering by increasing the number of Putnam County residents who experience the benefits of utilizing hospice and palliative care services.

The group will raise awareness about hospice services and the need for conversations and planning for the end of life.

The Association plans to develop and offer educational opportunities for both medical providers and community members.

Additional assistance has been provided by the Walther Cancer Foundation Inc. and its Walther Foundation Education Team. The Walther Foundation staff have been instrumental in helping the Board of Directors develop a strategic plan and through their expertise in working with other communities to promote awareness and use of hospice and palliative care.

Tammy Hunter was recently hired as the Association's director.

The Putnam County Community Foundation has committed funding for the Putnam County Hospice and Palliative Care Association for three years. If the pilot project is successful in its efforts, another multi-year commitment will be considered.