"[Our volunteer] was exceptional in his caring and attentiveness. He provided comfort and humor to Dad, and was a true blessing to the family." 

A Patient's Daughter

The Miracle of Compassionate Hands and Welcoming Hearts

Volunteers: Caregivers and Friends

Volunteers provide companionship to patients and families at a time when many people hesitate to ask for help. Patients are encouraged to add volunteer services to their caregiving team.

What do volunteers do?
Hospice philosophy encompasses all a patient's needs, not just the basic need for everyday treatments. In the same way the caregiving team provides medical care or chaplains provide spiritual guidance, volunteers provide much-needed social interaction at a time when patients may feel isolated from others.

Volunteers offer relief, friendship, and affection. More simply, they spend "quality time" with the patient. He or she might...

Our families tell us that the small things, like helping with errands, reading aloud, or just listening make all the difference to the patients and their caregivers.

What will my volunteer be like?
Our volunteers are as diverse in age, background, and interests as our patients. They bring unique skills and life experiences to their patients and families. We try to match each patient to a volunteer with complementary interests. For example, a patient who can no longer read books may enjoy the company of a VolunTEEN who likes to read aloud, or a lifelong Methodist may be paired with a member of a local Methodist men's group. Our Admissions staff will consult with the volunteer department to find a companion for each person.

Our staff will discuss volunteer visits with each patient during the Admissions process. Patients and family may choose their level of involvement in the volunteer program.

To learn more or to register for the next training session, call Kelly Tate, Director of Volunteer Services at 828/466-0466 ext. 2203 or through email at ktate@pchcv.org or  Sara Waugh, Manager of Volunteer Recruitment and Retention at 828/466-0466, ext. 2141 or through email at swaugh@pchcv.org. To begin volunteering, click here to download the volunteer application, fill out, and return to us by mail or fax.

Despite differences in upbringing, education, etc., all our volunteers... 

  • Are 16 years or older [Youths 16-18 may join the VolunTEEN program]

  • Receive ongoing training in hospice philosophy, caregiving, and safety
  • Give their time to those in need
  • Are open and accepting
  • Find pleasure in helping others
  • Keep promises to others
  • Value their status as vital members of the PCHCV team

  • Hold a hand - provide a source of support and strength
  • Warm a meal - assist with small tasks
  • Play comforting music or read aloud
  • Run an errand
  • Help with light housekeeping
  • Be a friend - sharing the art of listening
  • Sit with a patient - provide respite relief to a caregiver
  • Help with yard work - provide a needed service
  • Commit to help with other members of the PCHCV team