At Anchor Hospice, we believe that no one should face the end-of-life journey alone. Volunteers are the heart of our mission, providing the essential “human touch” that goes beyond medical care. Whether you’re offering a listening ear or helping behind the scenes, you are making a profound difference in the lives of patients and their families.

We offer diverse roles to match your unique talents and comfort level:

• • • Patient Companionship: Visit patients at home or in facilities to read, play music, or simply sit in quiet presence.
    • Respite Care: Sit with a patient for a few hours so their family caregiver can rest, run errands, or take a much-needed break.
    • Administrative Support: Assist our office team with mailings, data entry, and phone calls to keep our operations running smoothly.
    • Bereavement Support: Help our grief counselors by making check-in calls or assisting with community memorial events.

We ensure every volunteer is fully prepared and supported:

1. 1. Comprehensive Training: We provide thorough orientation covering hospice philosophy, communication skills, and grief support.
   2. Flexible Commitment: You can give as much or as little time as your schedule allows.
   3. Requirements: For the safety of our patients, volunteers must complete a background check, a TB test, and have no personal loss within the last 12 months.

Have questions? Contact our Volunteer Coordinator at 877-296-3840 or email at dgarcia@anchorhospice.com.

• • • Do I need a medical background to volunteer?
      No medical experience is required. Our volunteers provide companionship and emotional support, not clinical or personal care (like feeding or bathing). We provide all the specialized training you need to feel comfortable.
    • What is the time commitment?
      We offer flexible scheduling to fit your life. Most volunteers commit to 2–4 hours per week, though even a few hours a month can make a significant impact.
    • Is hospice volunteering depressing?
      While it can be sad, many volunteers find the work deeply life-affirming and joyful. It is about honoring a person’s life and ensuring their final chapters are filled with dignity and presence.
    • What kind of training will I receive?
      You will complete a comprehensive orientation (typically 12–16 hours) covering the hospice philosophy, active listening, grief and loss, and patient privacy (HIPAA).
    • Can I volunteer if I’ve recently lost a loved one?
      To ensure our volunteers are emotionally ready, we generally ask that you wait 12 months after a significant personal loss before working directly with patients.