Kaweah Delta Hospice Volunteers

Hospice Philosophy

The focus is on care, not cure

Kaweah Delta Hospice provides care to people who have a terminal illness or disease and are no longer seeking a cure. The decision to enter into hospice care is usually made by the patient and their family under the guidance of their physician. Once that decision is made, the patient can remain at home or in a long-term care center.

Hospice care provides:

• Pain management to increase the patient’s comfort level to ensure dignity and quality of life.
• Emotional and spiritual support for the patient and their family.
• A hospice team which includes a physician, a registered nurse, home health aides, social workers, a spiritual support counselor, and volunteers.
• Bereavement support offered after the patient has passed.

Volunteer Opportunities

Volunteers are an important part of the hospice experience. Volunteers are able to help patients and their families in the following ways.

Companionship

Volunteers sometimes simply sit quietly with a patient. Volunteers may interact with patients by reading stories, playing games, listening to music and reviewing photos.

Respite Care

Volunteers may stay with patients while their caregiver runs errands, goes to medical appointments, shops, naps or simply takes a break from their usual responsibilities. These breaks allow caregivers to recharge so they can continue to care for their loved one.

Specialized Volunteers

Some volunteers have skills that they are willing to share with patients including: massage therapy, pet therapy, music therapy, cosmetology and videography.

Office Volunteers

Office volunteers help with a variety of skills. While computer skills are helpful, they are not required.

Special Event Volunteers

Hospice hosts special events for our families throughout the year with the help of volunteers. Whether by helping at an event or by assisting with mailings, our volunteers help make things happen.

Training and Support

Volunteers are provided at least 24 hours of training prior to being placed with a patient. Orientation is offered during the last week of January, March, May, July, September and November. In September, we offer a weekend orientation for those who cannot attend on weekdays. We offer a variety of guest speakers during orientation to keep it interesting.

Orientation Topics Include:

• Hospice philosophy
• Education about death, dying and what to expect
• How to approach people in grief
• Other important topics.

Additionally, quarterly training is offered to help volunteers refine their hospice skills.

What Do Volunteers Receive?

Helping people during the end of life is one of the most rewarding things a person can do. It takes time, commitment and emotional strength, but leaves volunteers with monumental satisfaction. We promise to provide you with emotional support, training and recognition for your hard work.