Hospice of the Chesapeake volunteers are committed to serving and meeting the needs of patients with life-limiting illnesses and their loved ones. With compassion and respect, our volunteers play a vital role, whether working with our patients, providing caregiver support, serving as a "big buddy" at our bereavement camps, or helping in our office or resale shop. They offer a listening ear, an open mind and a loving heart to the families in their care.

WHAT DO HOSPICE VOLUNTEERS DO?

Hospice of the Chesapeake volunteers are an integral part of the interdisciplinary team and play a vital role in assisting clinical staff with identifying patient needs. Our volunteers regularly attend team meetings to provide updates about patient and family needs. They assist in implementing the plan of care. All volunteers are required to maintain patient confidentiality. 

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.

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

WHO CAN VOLUNTEER?

To become a Hospice of the Chesapeake volunteer you must:

• Be at least 18 years of age.
• 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 mandatory 21-hour training course conducted by professional instructors and hospice staff. In addition, Hospice of the Chesapeake conducts a background check on all potential volunteers to ensure our patients receive the utmost quality of care.
• Volunteers are also required to update their skills and knowledge base through our educational seminars and workshops.

WHAT IS COVERED IN TRAINING?

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.

WHAT MAKES A GOOD HOSPICE VOLUNTEER?

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.

HOW MUCH TIME DOES THE AVERAGE VOLUNTEER DONATE?

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.

HOSPICE OF THE CHESAPEAKE VOLUNTEERS ARE:

• Matched to the family, based on patient and family needs and dynamics;
• Available for regular visits once a week for 2-3 hours either on a regular or flexible schedule, according to patient and family needs;
• Available during the day, evening or weekends; and
• Assist families with practical needs such as running errands, provide caregivers a much-needed break from their daily routine, or simply provide a supportive presence for a patient and family members.

WOULD YOU LIKE TO KNOW MORE?

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 This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it (Anne Arundel County) at 443.837.1549. In Prince George's County, call This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it at 301.499.4500. 

• Download PDF Volunteer Application and fax to Kathy Bourgard at 443.837.1505
• Click here to complete and submit the Volunteer Application online
• View the Volunteer Calendar of Events