Hospice knows that each family is unique and services vary according to the individual situation. To prepare volunteers, Hospice provides a 21 hour training course for new patient-care volunteers. The program is required for volunteers who wish to interact with patients and their families.

The course provides a thorough background about Hospice care and the special needs of people with advanced illnesses. Participants will be asked to explore their feelings about death and dying. The course is not required for volunteers who do not have patient contact.

Once trained, volunteers are assigned to a patient and work directly with the clinical-care team under the supervision of Hospice Inc.’s volunteer coordinators.

Volunteers can also play a vital role at Hospice without coming into contact with patients. Volunteers can assist with administrative support in the office, with community education, assisting at fund-raising events and helping to recruit other volunteers.

Respite
Visiting with a patient so the care giver can do other things

Transportation
Taking a patient to a medical appointment or for a drive on a sunny day

Errands
Picking up prescriptions, or going grocery shopping for the family

Listening
Providing emotional support and companionship

Office Support
Assisting with telephones, filing, mailings, data entry

Special Needs
Volunteers with special skills such as a second language, hobbies, skilled crafts, etc. are—from time to time—needed to help patients and families

Community Outreach and Fund-raising Events
Helping staff Hospice Inc.’s annual Tree of Life event, Golf Tournament, or information booths around the community

All volunteers are asked to make a year-long commitment to Hospice. Patient and family volunteers usually give three hours each week when working with a patient and family. Some volunteers give more time depending on their availability and personal commitments.

Administrative volunteers who are needed for office support may work on a weekly basis, typically giving three hours each week during business hours, doing filing, mailings, data entry, etc.

Community outreach and fund-raising volunteers make commitments to help with special events; for example: community information tables, or the annual Tree of Life.

All volunteers are assigned and supervised by the Hospice Volunteer Coordinator and work with the entire Hospice team.