Kaua'i firefighter Alan Hashimoto was honored by Kaua'i Hospice at its recent volunteer recognition event as the organization's 2006 volunteer of the year.

The program also included recognition for 13 Kaua'i residents who have taken a 32-hour training program and graduated as Kaua'i Hospice volunteers.

"We are so fortunate that there are individuals who are willing to volunteer their time to help those in need. They each come with their own unique set of talents and gifts that make them perfect matches for our patients," said volunteer coordinator Sharon Leslie.

For more information call Kaua'i Hospice at 245-7277.