Needs From: United Way of Southeast Minnesota

Become a Volunteer   Our goal is to provide excellent end-of-life support to each patient and family.

Whether it’s providing companionship to a person in the final months or weeks of life, offering support to family members and caregivers, providing assistance in the office or helping with community outreach, the contributions of volunteers are an essential part of Interim HealthCare's Hospice Program.

Hospice volunteers are at the heart of our goal. Serving people at the end of life’s journey allows hospice volunteers in Olmsted County to make a difference to someone in need every day.

Are you ready to help those in need find peace?

Being a hospice volunteer, is an intensely rewarding experience. Once you complete the required pre-training interview and orientation, you'll be ready. Surviving family members or friends wishing to join the volunteer staff will be strongly encouraged to wait a minimum of one year following the death of their loved one.

As a volunteer, you will have access to ongoing educational opportunities to ensure you feel comfortable with your role. Hospice education covers: Philosophy of hospice care Services offered by hospice Effective communication with patients and family members Physical, emotional, social and spiritual issues encountered at the end of life Comfort for patients and families
As a hospice volunteer in Olmsted County, you will be given the choice as to what types of things you want to do and how much time you want to contribute.
   Typical volunteer responsibilities include: Support for Patients:

 

Reading Taking walks Writing letters Visiting with pets Bringing in music Vigil sitting Support for Families:   Respite relief Shopping and errands Meal preparation Light housekeeping

 

Bereavement Support: Assisting in support group Memorial Service Participation Office Work & Other Assisting with mailings Computer data entry Administrative duties Making special craft items Baking