Volunteering at Seacoast Hospice
Seacoast Hospice was founded by volunteers in 1978, and volunteers continue to be the heart of our organization. Volunteers provide companionship, respite, and support to patients and families as well as “behind the scenes” assistance to staff.
Together with the support of our many community volunteers, Seacoast Hospice cares for hundreds of patients in their own homes, hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and at the Hyder Family Hospice House.
There are two ways an individual can volunteer at Seacoast Hospice:
Direct-care volunteers
These volunteers work directly with patients and families, and are required to complete a 35-hour training program. Direct-care volunteers serve as an integral component of the Seacoast Hospice team.
Additional training is provided for volunteers working with specialized groups, including grief support and the Hyder Family Hospice House.
Here are some examples of how direct-care volunteers assist:
Patients’ areas of interest:
- reading
- playing chess, cards, board games
- knitting, scrapbooking, painting and other art projects
- writing letters and/or books
- video life review
Out and about:
- going to the movies, the mall, the beach or for a meal
- visiting bookstores and libraries
- attending theater and/or community events
- visiting friends and family
- transportation
Household Tasks:
- running errands
- walking pets
- grocery shopping
- childcare
- light meal preparation
Emotional Support:
- providing respite for caregivers
- sitting silently, when appropriate
- providing spiritual support when requested
- understanding and respecting
- facilitating support groups for grieving children and adults
Indirect-care volunteers
Volunteers serving in this capacity provide administrative assistance, maintain our community lending libraries, work on our grounds and labyrinth garden, speak to the public about our services, and serve on our board of directors. A five-hour training program is required for individuals who wish to provide this type of service.
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“I could not have done this without the help from Hospice or the volunteers, thank you all!” - Patient's family
“I didn’t get to meet all the volunteers….but may God bless you all. Keep up the great work and know that all of you are appreciated for all you do…” - Patient’s Family
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