5 Reasons to become a Hospice Volunteer
Volunteers are so beneficial to our patients. They give the glorious gift of time to people all over our community at the end of life. Volunteers provide a bright spot for patients, a listening ear and quiet companion to improve the quality of life for those they spend time with. So, why do volunteers work with Legacy? Our philosophy is that time spent volunteering should benefit the people volunteering just as much as those they are spending time with.
Here’s how we do it!
- A boost to your self-confidence. Volunteering can provide an increase to your self-confidence, self-esteem, and life satisfaction. You are doing good for others and the community, which provides a natural sense of accomplishment. Your role as a volunteer can also give you a sense of pride and identity. Volunteering with our patients is the rare opportunity to see the good you are doing as you provide the care and companionship. Our patients are so happy and grateful to spend time with our volunteers, you will know you are making a difference.
- Build your network and advance your skills. Have you ever thought about a career in healthcare or working with a geriatric demographic? Volunteering is an excellent way to dip your toe into this world. We provide a robust training program on aspects ranging from HIPAA and infection control to communication with Alzheimer’s and Dementia patients. When you volunteer with Legacy you have the ability to go to facilities all over our area, growing your network with staff at these buildings.
- An experience we build around you! Our volunteers are able to donate their time when they want, where they want and doing things that interest them. From the time you apply throughout your volunteering experience we work on your schedule. We do not assign days or times and there is no minimum number of hours to volunteer. Our volunteers get to choose their location, their schedule and spend the amount of time they have available to them. Schedules can change based on the volunteer’s need. We can increase and decrease visits as your schedule varies. Our goal is to make the volunteer experience positive, convenient and never a burden. We will work with you to create a plan that works for you.
- Support every step of the way. Our volunteers receive extensive online training (completed at their own home, at their pace, at their convenience) to make sure you are prepared and comfortable with any situation that may arise. After training is complete there is a one-on-one orientation to review what to do at facilities, how to document visits and to create a personalized plan for visits. Finally, you are introduced to your patient by the volunteer coordinator. At this first visit you are made aware of how to enter the facility, where to park and friendly introduction to your new patient(s). Our volunteers are never surprised, we are here to answer questions whenever you need. You have the support of our whole team!
- Giving back to your community: Volunteering can help you feel connected to those you are helping in the community. Giving back creates a wonderful sense of engagement and involvement. This gift of time and effort provides a wonderful sense of fulfillment and belonging which can lead to more involvement.
If this sounds interesting to you, please reach out to us today at volunteercoordinator@legacyhospicecares.com. We look forward to having you join our team!
Written by: Rachel Radtke, Volunteer Coordinator