Volunteer Opportunities

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. Click here to contact our volunteer director and complete our on-line volunteer form.