Volunteers are an integral part of the Hospice Care team. They offer a gentle presence, a helping hand and a compassionate ear.

Volunteers serve a variety of important functions. Whether running errands, preparing a light meal or sitting with a patient sharing a silent moment, Hospice volunteers provide care and companionship.

They assist:

• In patients' homes
• At The Pillars hospice home
• In long-term care facilities
• At grief and bereavement group sessions
• As administrative volunteers

Qualified, caring volunteers

Our volunteers are very qualified, receiving 21 hours of training. They participate in classroom training twice a year, where they explore the physical, spiritual and emotional issues surrounding Hospice Care. Volunteers also receive hands-on training provided by professional staff and are presented with on-going educational opportunities to strengthen and develop their skills.

Volunteer opportunities

Volunteers are always needed in the following areas; however, specific duties may vary:

Home care volunteers

• Provide respite for caregivers
• Read, write letters, play cards or games
• Help shop for groceries and run errands

Bereavement volunteers

• Provide support to grieving families
• Provide telephone follow-up at scheduled intervals
• Assist at memorial services
• Serve as a grief support facilitator

Long-term care volunteers

• Offer emotional, spiritual and social support to patients in assisted living centers
• Accompany the patient to various activities or events within the care center

Pillars volunteers

• Assist staff with patient care needs
• Greet and welcome family members and visitors
• Assist with meal preparation and general household responsibilities

Administrative volunteers

• Help with mailings and special projects
• Assist with data entry and filing

For more information

To learn more about how you can make a difference as a Hospice volunteer, call 651-232-3412.