Volunteer

Common questions about becoming a volunteer for hospice...

Who can become a hospice volunteer?

Hospice volunteers are men and women of all ages and backgrounds. From the eighteen-year-old boy playing the piano for residents of nursing facilities to the eighty-three-year-old woman preparing meals for homebound patients, hospice volunteers assist the hospice staff with patient care and family support.

What does a hospice volunteer do?

Hospice Partners of Kansas volunteers bring their own special warmth and unique personalities to hospice patients and their families. Hospice volunteers support the services already provided by nurses, aides and family members. They also offer comfort and companionship. Hospice volunteer roles include:

Volunteers for hospice in direct service are caring, supportive and empathetic individuals who provide help for the patient, family or other primary caregiver. Services may include:

• Reading
• Playing games
• Companionship
• Household tasks
• Meal preparation
• Yard work
• Providing a listening ear and support
• Shopping and running errands
• Providing respite for caregivers

Hospice volunteers in administration perform a wide variety of office support and administrative support projects.

Hospice volunteers in community education help to familiarize the public with hospice services, dispel misconceptions and inform the community about the special needs of those under homebound care with life-limiting illnesses.

Professional "consultant" hospice volunteers include professionals in all walks of life, including: attorneys, acupuncturists, public relation specialists, pharmacists, spiritual advisors, community clergy, massage therapists, pet therapists, etc.

How about training?

Hospice Partners of Kansas offers extensive hospice volunteer training to all volunteers. Topics include communication skills, family dynamics, grief and bereavement, home safety, personal safety, stress management, infection control and complementary & alternative hospice therapies. The amount and scope of volunteer training you receive is dependant upon the type of services you will be providing.

Interested in volunteering? Complete the application form below and we will contact you with volunteer opportunities!