The
VOLUNTEER Program

  
 

 
 
 
 


Simply by sharing banana cream pie, holding a hand, telling a joke, and being a friend, not to mention helping with everyday tasks that have become too difficult, volunteers enhance the quality of life for those receiving hospice care.

A patient's appreciation is a reward from the heart that so many of our volunteers cherish.

Who Can Be Hospice Volunteer?

Hospice Volunteers are men and women of all ages and backgrounds who offer their time to assist the hospice team with patient care and family support.
All volunteers involved with hospice families complete an extensive training program that provides them with an understanding of the physical and emotional stresses each person can experience.
Volunteers are supervised individually on an ongoing basis by members of the hospice team.

 

Why Should I Become an Avalon Hospice & Palliative Care Hospice Volunteer?

 Because hospice volunteers do important and rewarding work. Patients and their families depend on Hospice care. Hospice depends on volunteers. Without the efforts of volunteers, hospices could not continue their important work. Every hospice is required to have volunteers on its team. Volunteers are supervised by a hospice volunteer coordinator.

There's A Lot To Be Gained From Being a Hospice Volunteer


How much training do volunteers receive?

Our volunteers participate in a training program. Topics include communication skills, family dynamics, grief and bereavement, personal death awareness, spiritual issues, home and fire safety, personal safety, stress management, and infection control.


What are some of the duties of a Volunteer?

Volunteers help the Avalon Hospice & Palliative Care Organization by doing office work, special projects, and bereavement support. Hospice volunteers bring a supportive and caring presence to the patient and family. Service may include:
  • assistance with completing paperwork
  • assistance with medical appointments (not transporting to)
  • assistance with organizing
  • careful listening and support
  • companionship
  • errands
  • food shopping
  • home maintenance and minor repairs
  • laundry
  • letter writing
  • light housekeeping
  • meal preparation
  • pet care
  • prescription delivery
  • provide a link to hospice staff - Avalon Hospice & Palliative Care Volunteers report on needs of the patient to the Interdisciplinary Team

  • simple gardening/yard work

Volunteers Are the Backbone of the Hospice Team

They allow hospice to provide services it otherwise could not offer. In addition, volunteers usually form close bonds with the patient and family members, help people communicate, and grieve with the family.

How can I become a volunteer?

To be an Avalon Hospice & Palliative Care Volunteer:

  • Mail us the completed applIcation

 

If you still have questions, please click here to email us
or
go to the contact us page