Frequently Asked Questions

Who can be a St. John Hospice Volunteer?

• Homemakers, retirees, working professionals, students, and anyone who is looking to make a difference.
• Prior to becoming a St. John Hospice volunteer, the applicant must pass a background check and successfully complete the volunteer training program.

Why become a St. John Hospice Volunteer?

• Develop new skills and utilize existing skills.
• Provide assistance to patients with life limiting illnesses, as well as their caregivers and families.
• Provide assistance to hospice staff with day-to-day activities.
• An opportunity to meet new people and create meaningful relationships.
• Grow personally: gain satisfaction and self-fulfillment.
• Be part of an interdisciplinary team that addresses the physical, emotional, educational, spiritual, and social needs of hospice patients and their families.

Why are volunteers needed at St. John Hospice?
Five percent of a hospice organization's total care provided must be provided by volunteer services. St. John Hospice recruits volunteers to offer patients and their families, assistance at such a critical time in their lives. Also, volunteers are needed to assist at the hospice offices.

What types of volunteer opportunities are available?

• Respite Relief Volunteers
• Administrative Support Volunteer
• Fundraising/Community Outreach Volunteer
• Bereavement Support Volunteer

How long is the training?
The training is dependent on which volunteer position you are interested in. Respite relief volunteers' training is typically between ten and twelve hours long, this is broken up over three to four different sessions. Administrative support volunteers' training is about four to six hours long.

How often will I be expected to volunteer?
St. John Hospice does not require that you put in a specific number of hours a week. We realize that you are donating your time to assist our organization; what you give is up to you. We do encourage being able to offer two to four hours a week.

What kind of support is offered to new volunteers?
Our volunteer coordinators are responsible for training, supervising, motivating, supporting, and scheduling volunteers. Hospice staff such as clerical, clinical and management is also available by phone and in the office. We offer support group meeting, luncheons, educational in-services, phone calls and mailings, and also newsletters to keep connected with our volunteers.