Volunteer FAQs

Why are volunteers so important to Arbor Hospice?

Volunteers are integral to Arbor Hospice. Whether volunteers are working alongside a care-giving team, or assisting with office or events, volunteers help support Arbor Hospice’s end-of-life mission.

How long is the training?

A six-hour training is required for all volunteers who wish to volunteer with Arbor Hospice.

What is covered in the training?

Volunteers receive instruction on the roles of the hospice team members, including: the patient’s physician, hospice physician, nurse, social worker, spiritual care counselor, hospice aide, and grief support counselor. Any given volunteer role will be explained to you, so that you can determine if it’s a good fit.

Can I volunteer for work other than patient care?

Yes. Arbor Hospice needs volunteers to help with fundraisers, marketing and mailings, grief support, public speaking, computer, and IT assistance, sewing, hair styling, and more.

What is the time commitment?

Volunteer services are flexible to work around most schedules. There are no set schedules; it all depends on the needs of Arbor Hospice’s teams and your availability. Two to four hours a week is encouraged.

How do you support new volunteers?

You will have a Volunteer Program Coordinator who is responsible for training, supervising, supporting, and scheduling your work. Arbor Hospice staff is available to you by phone or in the office. There are also volunteer support group meetings, in-services, phone calls, newsletters, and more to keep you connected. Working with Arbor Hospice staff, you will be able to decide when to accept assignments without supervision.

Will I ever be expected to be present when a patient dies?

This is up to you, the patient, and his/her loved ones. Arbor Hospice offers to be present at the time of death if the family requests this support. Volunteers who sit with a patient during the death process are there entirely by choice.

What type of environment will I be working in?

Arbor Hospice cares for patients wherever they live: in private or nursing homes, hospitals, assisted living facilities, and group homes. If you are not directly involved in patient care, you will work at a local Arbor Hospice office.

Ready to get started?

Arbor Hospice needs your help. Please complete an application and get started.