Volunteer with Hospice

Volunteering at St. Mary’s Hospice

Volunteering at a hospice is one of the most meaningful ways to serve others during a deeply important time in their lives. Whether you're supporting staff behind the scenes or sitting quietly beside a patient, every role contributes to dignity, comfort, and peace of mind for both patients and their families.

Two Main Paths: Office & Patient Support

1. In-Office Volunteering

Volunteers in the office help keep the hospice running smoothly. Tasks may include answering phones, preparing mailings, filing, organizing supplies, or assisting with community outreach efforts. This is ideal for people who want to support the mission without providing direct patient care.

2. Patient and Family Support

Volunteers who work with patients often provide companionship, read aloud, offer a comforting presence, or assist with light tasks like running errands or providing short respite for caregivers. Some volunteers help with memory projects, music, or storytelling. You do not need medical training—what matters most is your ability to listen, be present, and offer kindness.

What You Can Expect

• Training: All hospice volunteers receive orientation and training. For direct patient support, training covers topics like active listening, emotional support, boundaries, and hospice philosophy.
• Flexible Scheduling: You can volunteer as little or as much as your schedule allows—some roles are ideal for evenings or weekends.
• Emotional Reward: Many volunteers say they receive more than they give. There's a unique sense of purpose in helping someone feel seen and supported during their final days.

Especially Meaningful for Those with Personal Experience:
People who have experienced hospice care in their own families often find this work profoundly healing. It's a way to honor a loved one, give back, and offer the kind of care they once received.