When the Medicare benefit for hospice was created in 1982, it became the first federal mandate for the use of volunteers in America. From an operational standpoint, volunteers are required for hospice care agencies. From a humanitarian standpoint, volunteers add a personal touch which assists patients and families at one of the most crucial steps in life's journey.
What type of volunteer opportunities are available?
Patient & Family Volunteers - Act as extension of the family in providing support to the patient and caregiver. Companion volunteers are trained to handle all situations which may arise while they are in the patient's home. These volunteers:
- provide companionship and friendship
- perform simple chores and run errands
- offer caregiver respite by sitting with the patient so the caregiver can attend to other tasks in, or outside, the home
- transport the patient to outside appointments
- offer grief and bereavement support to families
Office Support Volunteers - Work in Hospice of the Valley's office and assist with tasks which are important to maintain the organization's operations. These volunteers assist with:
- mailings
- filing
- making copies
- special projects and other clerical tasks
Community Outreach Volunteers - Represent Hospice of the Valley in the community and spread the word about the programs and services we offer. These volunteers:
- participate in the Speakers' Bureau
- serve as adult buddies at Camp Little Light of Mine Children's Grief Camp
- staff Hospice of the Valley booths at community events and fairs
- recruit new volunteers and supporters
- assist with fundraising projects and Hospice of the Valley events
What type of training is required?
All Hospice of the Valley volunteers go through a class which reviews the basics of hospice volunteering with specialized instruction geared toward the volunteer's area of interest. Training takes from 4 to 32 hours, depending on the type of volunteering.
Who should volunteer?
Individuals of all ages and from all walks of life are hospice volunteers. Compassion, concern and the desire to make a difference are all that's needed.
At HMHP our mission is to extend the healing ministry of Jesus by improving the health of our communities. Becoming a volunteer at one of our facilities will give you the joy of knowing that your help truly does make a difference in a person's life.
As an HMHP volunteer, you will become a special part of our family, helping us to reflect on our core values of compassion, excellence, human dignity, justice, sacredness of life and service. Our volunteers assist in many diverse work areas. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, please contact one of our volunteer coordinators who will be able to discuss available opportunities that match your skills and abilities.
Rita Havas
St. Elizabeth Health Center and St. Elizabeth Boardman Health Center
330-480-3375
Lucy Falatic
St. Joseph Health Center
330-841-4375
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Hospice is a specialized form of home care which concentrates on comfort-oriented measures for individuals with terminal illnesses.
Electing to receive hospice care does not mean giving up hope. Instead it means curative treatments are no longer effective in arresting the disease's progression.
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Hospice House, located on 14 wooded acres with streams and wildlife, has 16 patient rooms on the lower level with garden views.
There also is a family kitchen, a nondenominational chapel, bereavement center, family lounges, community gardens, walking paths and children's play area.
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The Bereavement Department has events scheduled throughout the year to engage both the patients and their families in activities that help them to celebrate life.
Click 'Read More' below to view our interactive calendar.
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