Be a Hospice Volunteer Visitor

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The service of a Volunteer is at the heart of what Hospice offers to families who are caring for a loved one who is dying. Volunteer Visitors are understanding listeners, the ones who extend a hand to hold, provide companionship and presence that comforts patients and often makes it possible for a caregiver to have a few hours of respite.

We have particular needs for volunteers who are:

* Art Therapists

* Musical- sing or play a musical instrument

* Bi-lingual in English & Spanish and/or bi-cultural

* Certified Massage Therapists

* Veterans wanting to serve other veterans

The 30-hour training is especially designed to prepare Volunteers to perform this vital service. We ask that candidates be able to make a volunteering commitment of 4 hours per week for a year; attend the monthly support group during the year, and attend 4 Inservices.

All training is provided free of charge by HSCC.

Volunteers are required to have TB tests and background checks which HSCC provides. Seasonal flu shots are also required (If opting out, Volunteers wear a mask during flu season).

Some topics covered in the training include the following:

* Philosophy of Hospice

* Spiritual dimensions of death and dying

* Grief processes and bereavement experiences

* Mindful Awareness practice as the ground for how to be of service with patients and families

* Basics of physical care and infection prevention

* Family systems dynamics

* Self-care and personal/professional boundaries Volunteers will receive on-going support by Hospice staff and other volunteers.