Volunteers are not merely a desirable supplement to the professional staff of Hospice Partners of the Central Coast; they are a crucial part of the hospice concept.

A fundamental goal of the philosophy is to preserve the tie between the hospice
patient, the family and the community so that they are not isolated during the last
phases of illness. The volunteers perform this function by reaching out and acting as a neighbor from the community. Through various volunteer activities the agency is better able to ensure patients and families remain in contact with the world beyond their own homes; ensure smooth office operations within tight financial guidelines and ensure services are available to all who need them.

Ways volunteers participate at Hospice Partners include:

In-Home with Patients (providing companionship, respite care, errands, etc. to the patient and family). This requires completion of a 32 hour training course.**

In-Office Assistance (various office work such as filing, computer work, bulk mailings, etc.).

Special Events and Fundraising Help (assisting on committees, planning events,
setting-up displays, etc.).

Due to the nature of volunteer hospice work, one is likely to need support and
assistance. We encourage volunteers to avail themselves of any and all the resources we provide:

• Peer support
• Counseling
• Spiritual comfort
• Unlimited contact with the Volunteer Coordinator
• Recognition programs
• In-service programs

** Volunteer Training for individuals wishing to become a Hospice In-home Volunteer are offered several times a year.

For more information about becoming a Hospice Partners Volunteer call the Volunteer Coordinator at 805-782-8608.