Hospice Care: Its About How You Live

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Volunteers

We are seeking compassionate men and women who have the ability to be a presence to those in need. Volunteers are the cornerstone of Hospice care and provide a lifeline to the community for patients and their families. Our volunteers are able to meet a patient where they are in their journey. They can form relationships with people that transcend their role as a 'volunteer' by providing the support that a family needs to function every day.

Volunteers tell us that this is life-affirming work. They experience moments of humor, laughter and friendship. Patients teach them about life and how to live with courage, dignity and hope. Families tell us that the volunteers provided valuable support that they did not always realize they needed. Here are some comments from our families:

  • My spouse's appreciation for the Hospice Volunteer goes above and beyond praise. The volunteer was ready and willing to what was needed. She kept him focused and his morale vital till the end. Thank God for her! We're forever grateful.
  • The volunteers were Mom's social "life line". She looked forward to their visits, was very excited and happy on the days that they came. They are incredible assets to Hospice!!
  • The volunteer was excellent. She allowed us to rest and recharge.

We offer two free training programs a year. The first is in the daytime starting in March and the second is held outside of regular business hours in the fall. The program is a total of 18 hours over nine weeks. The training is designed to prepare volunteers to visit with patients and their families. Issues addressed include Pain Management, Grief and Bereavement, Active Listening, and the Meaning of Illness to the patient and their families. On average, volunteers with patients generally commit to 1-3 hours a week.

Hospice relies on its volunteers for their help in many areas. Trained volunteers provide relief to the family and emotional support to both the patient and the family by:

  • Being a companion to a patient
  • Being present when a caregiver is away
  • Providing respite to caregivers
  • Supporting a patient's personal needs, interests, and care
  • Assisting with basic household tasks and errands

Trained volunteers can also share their knowledge of hospice to educate the community through the Speaker's Bureau. Other activities that may not require volunteer training include:

  • Providing administrative and clerical support in the Hospice office
  • Participating with fund raising events

We accept applications throughout the year.

To request more information or to speak to someone about any of our services, please contact our office.