April 7 to 13, 2019 is National Volunteer Week –a time to recognize and celebrate the impact volunteers have in making Canada and the world a better place. Research has shown that the single biggest reason why Canadians volunteer is to contribute to the community. Home Hospice Association volunteers are the heart and soul of our unique “village” approach to palliative care in the communities that we serve. They embody the true spirit of volunteerism – they are “people doing ordinary things that make an extraordinary difference.”
We deeply value and appreciate the skills and life experience provided by our Home Hospice Association family of volunteers, and we are glad to accommodate their interests and time available. The volunteer application and on boarding process is specifically designed to directly involve and communicate with the volunteer throughout; ensuring that expectations are met and any questions or concerns are addressed.
These are some of the ways that Home Hospice Association volunteers are helping to make a difference in their communities:
Compassionate caregivers: Empower and support those caring for someone on their final journey, and help terminally ill clients live well while dying
Activity teams: Act as ambassadors at events, create knitted/crocheted items for babies born still, host Death Cafes
Leadership / Planning: Manage or join a project team to advance Home Hospice’s mission and goals
Bello Project: With support of a Registered Veterinary Technician mentor, help provide in-home pet care for terminally ill pet owner clients
Start a Chapter: Bring Home Hospice Association programs and services to your community
The gift of volunteering not only helps others, it also gives joy and a great sense of satisfaction knowing that you are making a positive change in peoples’ lives. “The unselfish effort to bring cheer to others will be the beginning of a happier life for ourselves.” – Helen Keller
Self-care is a core component of all Home Hospice Association programs, ensuring that all members of our volunteer family are supported and that no one “walks their journey alone”.
There’s a famous quote “No one is more cherished in this world than someone who lightens the burden of another.” Home Hospice Association truly cherishes, honors and celebrates the invaluable contributions made by its volunteers….today and every day!