Local hospice group seeks volunteers

Volunteers are a vital part of the Hospice of the Valleys team. They bring caring concern, comfort and compassion to patients and families. Volunteers can become sensitive to patients’ unique needs and are able to communicate those needs to Hospice of the Valleys’ staff. Hospice of the Valleys is the local hospice organization, based in Murrieta, that services the Canyon Lake community. It provides end-of-life care for local residents.

A variety of volunteer opportunities are available, according to Hospice of the Valleys officials. Those with limited time to give and those who may have a more flexible schedule are all needed. And, if preferred, volunteer opportunities are available beyond working with patients and families. All volunteers support the work and purpose of Hospice of the Valleys, regardless of their specific duties. Volunteers may give of their time and talents in a variety of ways. Here are a few of the specific areas in which a person can help:

Patient Care and Support

Patient care volunteers provide companionship and emotional support to the patient and family, helping in the home and offering respite to the caregiver. Volunteers also can offer support to grieving families through telephone calls, notes or personal visits, shopping, cooking and cleaning.

By Your Side

Volunteers can simply be at the side of patients living in a facility who have no family, or no one in the area, who are in their final hours. Hospice of the Valleys is committed to ensure that no one on our service dies alone.

Teen Program

Teen volunteers can be extremely helpful. Those teenagers interested in volunteering need to contact the Volunteer Coordinator, who will fill them in on all the steps they need to take to become a teen volunteer.

Special Services

Volunteers with expertise in language interpretation, music or other areas may share their specialties with patients and families. Those who are licensed professionals in pet therapy and music therapy can also give of their talents to Hospice of the Valleys.

Memory Bears and Hearts

Memory Bears are available to families of the patients Hospice of the Valleys has served. Memory Bears are made from an article of clothing dear to the patient or family. They come lovingly wrapped in a beautiful crocheted or knitted blanket. Small heart pillows are available if preferred.

Administrative/Office Support

Volunteers assist in the office by providing help with special projects, mailings and administrative support.

Speakers’ Bureau

Hospice of the Valleys representatives are often invited to speak to worship communities, civic groups and other gatherings. Experienced volunteers assist with community education and public speaking.

Special Events

Volunteers help with memorial services, fundraising events, conferences, seminars and other special events.

Hospice of the Valleys volunteers must complete a 15-hour intensive training program which is available online or at the Murrieta office. Volunteers gain valuable in-depth knowledge and understanding of the hospice philosophy and concept of care. Hospice always has the need for volunteers in patient care, bereavement, office, sewing projects and fundraising.

For upcoming volunteer training, contact Chrisy Lawless, Volunteer Coordinator, at 951-200-7800 or e-mail clawless@hovsc.org.