We are so grateful for the support of our many volunteers!
Hospice volunteers are an important part of our team and give a priceless gift to those who are affected by end-of-life challenges. Volunteering is more than giving a few hours; it is making a difference in someone's life.
They are ordinary people who make an extraordinary difference!
How do I become a volunteer?
- Fill out an application - The first step to becoming a Chatham-Kent Hospice Volunteer is filling out an application
- Meet with the Coordinator of Volunteer Services - Our Volunteer Coordinator will be in touch to set up an interview to determine if volunteering at Chatham-Kent Hospice is the right fit. We ask that those who have had a close personal loss and are still in mourning to wait at least 12 months to volunteer. It can be difficult to be of service to others when one is still healing from their own loss. A discussion regarding loss is conducted during the interview to determine if someone is ready to volunteer.
- Complete Screening - If a mutually agreed upon position is found, two personal reference checks will be completed, followed by a Police Information Check and a Health Screening check.
- Training & Orientation - Volunteers will be enrolled in a 34 hour comprehensive training and orientation program to ensure they have the knowledge they need to provide outstanding care to our residents and families.
- Start making a difference!
Interested in learning more about volunteering?
Our Coordinator of Volunteer Services will be in touch with you for more information!
How can I help at the Hospice?
As the care needed by our families and their loved ones is complex, our volunteers help us meet their needs in many ways.
Direct Service Volunteer
Volunteers offer support to the resident and their family members by assisting professional staff in the direct personal care of the resident. There is specific training for the volunteers for this role above and beyond the regular training.
Kitchen Volunteer
Volunteers offer support in the Hospice kitchen by preparing resident meals and snacks. This role is great for those who like to be active and who enjoy a multi-tasking environment! Volunteers will help prepare baked goods, homemade soups and help keep the kitchen clean and tidy according to Public Health Standards.
Complementary Therapy Volunteer
Certified professionals in areas such as Registered Massage Therapist, Reiki (Level 3), Therapeutic Touch (Recognized Practitioner) and Reflexology provide symptom relief to our residents and their care givers.
Receptionist Volunteer
Volunteers in this role give a warm welcome to our visitors and families. Answering phone inquiries, and directing our visitors within the Hospice is an important part of providing hospitality.
Administrative Volunteer
Volunteers may assist by typing, data entry, filing, preparing mailings, writing acknowledgements/notes, preparing manuals and photocopying on an as needed basis. Previous office experience is an asset but not always necessary.
Special Events Volunteer
This refers to a volunteer who participates in a variety of events designed to raise funds, help with public education and community awareness.
Gardening Volunteer
People who have an interest or experience in gardening or horticulture are encouraged to consider this volunteer opportunity. These volunteers assist in the maintenance of our courtyard and landscaping.
Board or Committee Members
The Board of Directors is responsible for setting the strategic direction of the organization, and overseeing its management. Volunteers with medical, legal, financial, marketing, social service and other professional skills serve on the Board.
How much of a commitment do I have to make?
We ask that our volunteers make a commitment of a minimum of one year from the completion date of their training and provide at least a four hour shift per month. Many of our volunteers feel that volunteering on a weekly or bi-weekly basis is a better option as it allows them to really learn the full scope of the role and helps them to get to know their team. Feeling very comfortable and confident in their role is the key to their success.
Why join our team?
Chatham-Kent Hospice understands the invaluable impact that our volunteers make in our organization. Our Volunteer Program is run by a dedicated staff member who specializes in Volunteer Management best practices. Our volunteers are provided with ongoing professional development and support in their volunteer role, if you are looking for a challenging but meaningful and impactful volunteer experience and are ready to commit yourself to helping people affected by end of life challenges, then this might be the right fit for you!
Gain/Continue Palliative Care Experience
Do you have an interest in a career in healthcare? Gain valuable experience. Maybe you are an active or retired healthcare professional, we could use your expertise!
Everyone has their own motivation for getting involved with Chatham-Kent Hospice. For most the experience of volunteering is very rewarding. Read some of the most common reasons to volunteer here.
Everyone Welcome
Chatham-Kent Hospice welcomes all members of the community, regardless of race, national origin, colour, political affiliation, religion, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, family status, marital status (including single status), economic circumstance or disability. This is to be reflected in the individuals we care for as well as in our recruitment strategies for both staff and volunteers to ensure that we reflect the diversity of the Chatham-Kent Community.