How You Can Help

Volunteer & Donate

Hospice Services' Volunteer Screening and Training Program

Each prospective volunteer participates in a screening process prior to training, which includes an interview with the hospice volunteer coordinator, reference checks and a background check.

As a prospective volunteer, you’ll then complete an extensive training program designed to achieve the following goals:

• Teach hospice philosophy and care
• Explore personal feelings about death
• Understand your volunteer role on the care team
• Develop good listening skills

Because of the sensitive nature of this type of volunteer position, hospice volunteers receive special hospice training to:

• Understand the unique issues people face when dealing with a life-limiting illness.
• Provide support and reassurance to patients and their families, and help them sort out options.
• Be active listeners
• Assist in tasks that comfort patients

Your Role as a Hospice Volunteer

Once you complete the screening and training program, you'll typically need to be available for two to four hours per week to offer the following services:

• Companionship
• Emotional support to patients and families
• Relief to family and caregivers

Volunteer Support Groups and Education

In order to support volunteers through their work with hospice, the volunteer program offers bi–monthly support groups where volunteers share experiences, problem-solve, and receive support. The program also offers education programs on topics helpful to volunteer work.