“People say, ‘We can’t thank you enough,’ but they don’t understand that we get more from them than we give. I truly appreciate what I have learned from my patients and families.”

Volunteer

Volunteers Make a Significant Contribution to our Mission
Many people believe the key to achieving contentment is enjoying purpose in life, and that happiness is tied more to what we give then what we take. Our society depends on volunteers to fill the gap where families, who often live apart, cannot. Volunteers make significant contributions to their community, but also:
  • Achieve the contentment of work/life balance
  • Expand skills, knowledge and education
  • Develop new relationships, create friendships and network with other professionals, families and community members
  • Discover personal strengths

At Delaware Hospice, it’s hard to say who benefits more, our volunteers, or the individuals and families they serve. We offer a range of volunteer opportunities, but here are a few preliminary details you need to know:

  • Our volunteer coordinators take time to understand your gifts, talents and wishes before making an assignment.
  • Volunteers are required to be 16 years of age.
  • Volunteers working directly with individuals under our care are required to participate in an educational program to understand the concept and mission of hospice care.

Do any of the following descriptions sound like they match the talents you’d like to share?

Companion/Family Support/Transitions:
I’m a great listener. I’m comfortable being in the presence of someone who might be vulnerable, tired, frustrated or just in need of some company. I’m at ease with people in general, and happy to help with all sorts of necessary tasks…taking a trip to the store, getting a glass of water, or just listening.

Vigil:
I’m able to serve as a quiet presence and source of strength during the very intimate and emotional moments of an individual’s final hours. I can provide peace and comfort directly or on the sidelines, but I’m also able to create enough boundaries so I don’t become overwhelmed emotionally myself.

Bereavement:
I can relate to the pain associated with loss, and I’m able to visit, listen, write notes of encouragement or make phone calls to help people as they heal through grief. I don’t feel the need to hurry someone along the process, and will wait patiently as they move at their own pace.

New Hope:
I have a passion for working with children who have suffered a loss. I relate to their special needs and am willing to learn more. I can assist leaders with crafts, games and activities designed to help children identify and cope with their feelings.

Office Administration:
I enjoy coordinating the details of office organization and data entry. No job is too small for me, such as filing or making copies. I know that working with even small details makes a vital contribution to Delaware Hospice and its mission.

Community Education:
I demonstrate strong communications skills and enjoy the idea of raising awareness about the special needs people face at the end of life. I’m comfortable with public speaking and/or writing, and I like the idea of promoting a philosophy in which I passionately believe.

The Delaware Hospice Center:
I’m personable and enjoy making people feel welcome. I can play card games or just sit and talk with patients, bake cookies for guests or greet family members visiting loved ones. I’m happy to help with tasks that might be necessary around the center.

Fundraising/Special Events:
I love to plan parties, make appeals for community support through fundraising or serve as an extra hand during public events such as the Annual Jazz Brunch, the Festival of Trees, 5-K runs/walks, and our Annual Golf Outing.

For more information regarding volunteer opportunities, please contact us at 800-838-9800 or complete an on-line application.

 
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 Delaware Hospice is accredited by The Joint Commission. Read Statement
3515 Silverside Rd. Wilmington, DE 19810      1-800-838-9800