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Who are volunteers?

I began volunteering with Hospice after having gone through a death in my own family. During my experience, I needed and received much support from family and friends. I felt that I wanted to offer my support to other families walking through the dying and bereavement process. I find satisfaction in helping patients and their families live each day to its fullest. It is a privilege to be part of the Hospice experience, helping to make a difference in someone's life during a difficult time. I know I speak for many volunteers when I say we receive so much more that we give. Ms. Mary Diehl 7 year volunteer for HWC

Volunteers are your neighbors. They are men and women of all ages. They work various jobs or are retirees. Many of them have taken care of seriously ill family members and understand how much help is needed when someone is ill. All volunteers have completed a training course and are supervised by hospice staff.

What is the role of a volunteer?

• Companion Volunteers spend time with patients so that family members may have a few free hours to do errands or just relax. They can read to patients, talk, or just listen, take walks or just hold hands. Often they spend time with family, members, offering the comfort of being with someone who understands.
  
• Office Volunteers assist the administrative staff by answering phones, making copies, and preparing bulk mailings. In addition to a two-hour orientation, they receive on-the-job training.
  
• Bereavement Volunteers support families who have lost a loved one. Support is given through phone calls and visits as needed.
  
• Pastoral Care Volunteers help patients and families with spiritual concerns.
  
• Special Project Volunteers help with various projects and fundraising events as needed.
  
• Special Services Volunteers provide a variety of services to patients such as haircuts, massage and music therapy.

It was an eye opener for me. It gave me such insight into the needs of the dying. The presenters were so professional and compassionate in the education they provided. I am more energized than ever to work with Hospice patients and their families. Richard Baumgartner Winter 2007 HWC Graduate of Volunteer Training

Volunteer Training

Companion Volunteers, along with Bereavement, and Pastoral Care are required to take a 24-hour training course, learning about the hospice program and enhancing communication and interpersonal skills. Training prepares them to explore the physical and emotional challenges faced by terminally ill people and their families.

Special Project, Special Services and Office Volunteers complete individualized training. Just pick up the phone and call Hospice of Washington County, Inc.. Our Volunteer Coordinator will familiarize you with our programs and answer any specific questions you may have.

We offer a 4-week program that enables members of the community to serve as volunteers for HWC. Volunteers who serve in a patient's home are required to complete this 24-hour program prior to being assigned a patient.

Please contact the Volunteer Director if you would be interested in attending volunteer training at 301-791-6360.

Youth Volunteers

HWC is seeking volunteers of high school age who may be seeking to fulfill their community volunteer hours for graduation. This youth volunteer program seeks to supplement the support which our patient care volunteers and office volunteers provide.

Youth volunteers will be able to choose from a variety of opportunities according to their interests and availability. Support in the office may include filing, copying and mailings. Patient-care support may include light housework, garden work, or delivery of supplies to homes. There are also several marketing projects which are in need of additional help.

Our orientation and training program for youth volunteers consists of two 1 1/2 hour training sessions that will provide students with an overview of hospice care and a briefing on issues of confidentiality. We will also cover routine health care practices such as proper hand washing techniques.

If you are an interested youth, please contact our Volunteer Director at 301-791-6360

Volunteers Currently Needed

Licensed Massage Therapists-Currently HWC needs therapists who would be willing to donate their time for Hospice patients and caregivers.

Hair Stylists-Currently HWC needs hair stylists willing to donate their time for Hospice patients and caregivers.

Male Companion Volunteers-some male patients would prefer male volunteers and HWC currently needs men who are willing to fulfill that role.

Contact Person: Volunteer Director at 301-791-6360

Volunteers are a special group of people.

Click here to apply online or download a pdf version.