Volunteers bring concern and compassion to patients and families by offering them their patience and their presence. In short, they serve as companions to people in need. Giving your time and talents as a volunteer means that you will receive much in return. A variety of volunteer opportunities are available, each requiring different time commitments. Whether you have limited time or a more flexible schedule there are volunteer opportunities available. There are also opportunities for volunteers that do not involve patient care such as clerical support and assistance with special events. Every volunteer at Gateway Hospice is an integral part of the team.

If you would like more information about becoming a volunteer with Gateway Hospice, please call 931-502-3600. Gateway Hospice could not function without the support of its volunteers.

What Qualities Make a Good Hospice Volunteer?
• The ability to listen,communicate and function within an interdisciplinary team framework.
• Assessment and planning skills.
• The desire to be of service to individuals experiencing a loss.
• A commitment to the philosophy of hospice care.
• Resolution of one's past personal grief experiences.
• Respect for confidentiality.
• The willingness to learn concepts related to death, dying and grieving.

Hospice volunteers often express their work with patients and families as a blessing. The inner knowledge and satisfaction a volunteer receives from knowing they've made a real difference in the life of a patient or family is what makes being a hospice volunteer special. To be invited into the last months, weeks, and days of a person's life is an honor and a privilege. Hospice is growing as more and more persons with limited life expectancy seek to spend their last months at home. For this reason new volunteers are needed every day.

Role of the Hospice Volunteer
Patient Care Volunteer: Patient Care volunteers spend a minimum of 4 hours per week providing support and companionship to the patient and family, helping in the home, and providing respite to the caregivers.

Bereavement Follow-up: Volunteers contact family by phone, mail or personal visits and work with support groups to enhance the efforts of our professional counselors.

Administrative/Office Support: Volunteers assist in the office by providing help with special projects, mailings, and clerical support.

Special Services: Volunteers licensed in law, massage, or hair care or who have expertise in language interpretation, music, or other areas may share their specialties with patients and families.

Speakers Bureau: Experienced volunteers assist with community education and public speaking.

Camp Willow Creek: Volunteers attend the 3-day bereavement camp for children and help in various capacities including counselor, team leader, lifeguard, recreation leader and arts and crafts.