Ohio’s Hospice LifeCare volunteer training to start
Ohio’s Hospice LifeCare is training members of the community who are interested in supporting patients and families facing a life-limiting illness or injury. The volunteer training will start Mondays beginning Sept. 18 from 6-8:30 p.m. at the Marilyn B. and Mark E. Gustafson Center for Supportive Care on the campus of Ohio’s Hospice LifeCare, 1900 Akron Road, Wooster.
Volunteers play a vital role as members of the hospice care team. “Just like our patients, volunteers represent all ages, religions and ethnic backgrounds,” said Elisa Stoyle, manager of volunteer services at Ohio’s Hospice LifeCare. “Each volunteer brings unique skills and experiences to the volunteer role of their choosing.”
Ohio’s Hospice LifeCare is seeking the following volunteers:
—Volunteers who can help family caregivers by giving them a break or assistance with household tasks.
—Military veterans who are willing to support patients who are veterans.
—Hairstylists who are willing to offer haircuts to patients who are no longer able to leave their homes.
—Animal-assisted therapy volunteers who are willing to visit patients and their families.
—Volunteers who can assist with fundraising and special events.
The volunteer training addresses the following topics:
—Preparation in hospice history and philosophy.
—Active listening and communication techniques.
—Spiritual care of dying and grieving persons.
—Bereavement care training.
An abbreviated training also is provided for those who are interested in volunteering at Ohio’s Hospice LifeCare in a nonpatient role such as administrative support or buildings and grounds work. Even if an individual isn’t sure about becoming a hospice volunteer, they are encouraged to attend the first session of training.
“Our volunteers make a difference in the lives of our patients and families,” Stoyle said. “They help enhance the quality of life for our patients through companionship, music, animal-assisted therapy and spiritual support. Hospice volunteering is about being a good neighbor.”
Those who are interested should email Stoyle at EStoyle@LifeCareHospice.org, call 330-264-4899 or visit www.OhiosHospice.org/Volunteer/.
Ohio’s Hospice LifeCare, a not-for-profit organization established in 1982, is an affiliate of Ohio’s Hospice that serves communities in Northeast Ohio.