Quality of care is one of the cornerstones of our mission – a mission that could not be accomplished without the many ‘helping hands’ of our volunteers. Hospice Services of Massachusetts and Hospice of Western & Central Massachusetts has a dedicated volunteer force of caring individuals and we offer opportunities in just about every area you can imagine. Whether you can give four hours a month or four hours a day, we can use your help!
All our volunteers receive extensive training in providing comfort and support to families facing end-of-life issues. Topics covered during volunteer training include hospice, ways to improve communication, active listening, identifying and respecting cultural differences, spirituality, and grief and the healing process.
Without the contributions of each and every one of the volunteers, we would not be able to provide the level of care and comfort to our patients for which we are renown.
Volunteers are an invaluable part of our interdisciplinary team. They demonstrate a deep commitment to the Hospice Philosophy and to their desire to help others. Volunteers perform direct services, both tangible and intangible, on behalf of the patients and their family and indirect services in administrative, and education on behalf of the agency. They may assist the patient with companionship, caregiver relief, meal preparation, listening and complementary therapies. They provide an atmosphere of warmth and understanding for the family during and after each death. They share their special skills. They function as a friend and confidant.
