Hospice of the Chesapeake volunteers are a diverse group of dedicated individuals committed to providing a variety of services to patients, families and friends.  With compassion and respect, volunteers play a vital role on the hospice team - visiting patients, supporting caregivers, serving as counselors at grief retreats, organizing fundraisers or assisting in our offices or resale shop. 

WHO ARE OUR VOLUNTEERS?

PATIENT CARE VOLUNTEERS provide companionship to patients and respite for caregivers.  They offer a listening ear, open mind and loving heart to those in our care.  

SPIRITUAL CARE VOLUNTEERS are trained to provide spiritual support and comfort to patients and their loved ones. 

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

HOSPICE HOUSE VOLUNTEERS assist with preparing meals, housekeeping, yard work and other duties as needed.

COMMUNITY OUTREACH VOLUNTEERS manage informational displays at community events or assist with speaking engagements related to the hospice mission.  

ADMINISTRATIVE VOLUNTEERS provide office and clerical support. 

RETAIL VOLUNTEERS assist with day-to-day operations at Treasures, our upscale resale shop. 

FUNDRAISING & EVENT VOLUNTEERS provide fundraising and event support.  

CAMP COMPANIONS provide a safe and reassuring presence for grieving children and teens who attend our annual bereavement camps.

GRIEF SUPPORT VOLUNTEERS provide a caring presence either by phone or in person to support individuals during their grief journey. 

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

YOU CAN BECOME A VOLUNTEER IF YOU:  

• Have an open heart and mind and are willing to provide compassionate care
• Are at least 18 years of age
• Are willing to complete volunteer training

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 an advanced illness.  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?

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
• View our Volunteer Brochure