PATIENT CARE VOLUNTEERS provide companionship to patients and respite for caregivers, help with errands and/or other practical needs. They offer a listening ear, open mind and loving heart to the families in their care.

SPIRITUAL CARE VOLUNTEERS are specially trained to provide spiritual support and comfort to patients and their families.

VIGIL VOLUNTEERS have completed additional training in the physical and spiritual aspects of dying and are available upon request to provide additional support to patients and families during the final days and hours of life.

CAMP COUNSELOR VOLUNTEERS provide a safe and reassuring presence for the many grieving youngsters who attend our annual weekend bereavement retreats.

HOSPICE HOUSE VOLUNTEERS play a key role in patient care and companionship, preparing special meals, housecleaning, yard work and assisting Hospice House staff as needed.

COMMUNITY OUTREACH VOLUNTEERS help educate the public about hospice care and services by staffing our hospice booth at community events, health fairs, church events, festivals, fundraisers and other special events.

ADMINISTRATIVE VOLUNTEERS provide office support and clerical duties, staff fundraising and community outreach events, provide handyman services, and other vital support.

CHESAPEAKE TREASURES VOLUNTEERS assist with day to day operations of our resale shop, sorting, pricing and selling donated gently used clothing, books and gift items.

AUXILIARY VOLUNTEERS provide fundraising support for Hospice of the Chesapeake while sharing fun and fellowship.

Community Outreach Volunteers Lynn Sturm and Russ Stewart at Northrop Grumman's Health Fair

Volunteers Bob and Cindy Butz, with Evergreen Genes representative, maintain the landscaping at The Creston G. Tate and Betty Jane Tate Foundation Chesapeake Hospice House

Camp Nabi Volunteers (in purple) assist Nabi participants with crafts

To become a Hospice of the Chesapeake volunteer you must:

Be at least 18 years of age; and

Be willing to become a vital part of Hospice of the Chesapeake's mission to provide compassionate care to persons facing life-limiting illnesses and grief.

Patient care volunteers must complete a free 21-hour training course conducted by professional instructors and hospice staff.


As a Hospice of the Chesapeake volunteer, you will explore the physical, social, emotional and spiritual aspects of caring for a patient with a life-limiting illness and his or her family. In-service training on various topics is offered throughout the year, expanding your knowledge base and refreshing your skills.


Patient and camp volunteers need to have the ability to listen and really hear what the client and family are saying and respond to their needs.


Patient care volunteers provide support and companionship to their assigned patients for two to three hours per week. Other volunteers have a flexible schedule depending on the assignment and their availability.


Attend a Hospice Volunteer Information Night to learn more, held semi-annually about a month prior to the start of training classes.

For more information call Kathy Bourgard (Anne Arundel County) at 443.837.1549. In Prince George's County, call Julie Medlin at 301.499.4500.