To the Editor:

Hospice Volunteers are compassionate community members who want to make a difference in the lives of people who are approaching the end of life.

 They are essential to the care provided each day.  Whether they are helping families, visiting patients, participating in special events, or assisting with administrative tasks, each minute of time contributes greatly to the quality of life for the patients and families we serve.

Volunteering is flexible based on the amount of time in your schedule, and assignments can be made according to the area of the county in which you live.  Volunteers are never asked to do something they are uncomfortable with.

Ongoing training and support are provided by Hospice’s Volunteer Manager to ensure the volunteer has the tools needed to effectively serve the patient and family to ensure a truly rewarding experience for all.

Qualities of a Hospice Volunteer: good listening skills, dependability, patience, emotional stability, and adequate integration of past losses.

There are a variety of opportunities to volunteer with Hospice of St. Lawrence Valley:

• Direct Care Volunteers: Like many members of the Hospice staff, volunteers in this role are welcomed into the patient and family’s home at a very tender time.  It’s a period of closure and a time of reflection.  Volunteers may assist the patient with companionship, give caregivers a much-needed break, prepare meals, or simply listen.  Hospice volunteers provide an atmosphere of warmth and understanding for the family during a critical time.
• Indirect Service: If you don’t see yourself working with patients, Hospice will gladly find ways to utilize your unique talents. They can include clerical projects, helping with grief support groups, sharing your experience with Hospice in the community and volunteering at special events.
• Community members with a special talent or project in mind are invited to contact Hospice to make suggestions. The Volunteer Program is focused on meeting the needs of the patients and families served by Hospice, as well as  creating a fulfilling experience for those interested in giving their time.  

  Becoming a Hospice Volunteer is easy.

In order to see patients, volunteers must go through a training process, background check and other general paperwork. Training is provided at the office and through on-line modules.

To ensure a good match with a patient and family, the Volunteer Manager will get to know prospective volunteers through a brief interview.

Once the training is completed, and a final interview with the Volunteer Manager takes place, volunteers will go out on their first assignment with a mentor.

To get the process started, call or email me at 315-265-3105 or dwarburton@hospiceslv.org

Diane M. Warburton
Volunteer Manager at Hospice of St. Lawrence Valley