Regional Hospice Needs Volunteers

DANBURY –– Regional Hospice of Western Connecticut will hold a Family Support Volunteer Training Program beginning October 14 for new volunteers.

 The organization offers extensive training to individuals who wish to become a part of its expanding hospice team. Family Support Volunteers work closely with hospice staff to provide care, comfort and companionship to patients and their families during a time of transition and loss.

Regional Hospice has been caring for the greater Danbury-area community since 1983. It offers a comprehensive team-oriented program of care that seeks to treat and comfort seriously ill patients and their families at home or in homelike settings. The hospice team is comprised of professionals who address medical, emotional, psychological, and spiritual needs of the patient and family, all of which are considered of equal importance.

Regional Hospice believes that through skilled, compassionate, supportive care, patients can approach the end of life with comfort and dignity. Volunteers are unique but integral members of the hospice team and truly are the heart of Regional Hospice. Volunteers receive training in the hospice philosophy, care and comfort of the dying, family dynamics, communication skills, patient care and safety, adult and children’s grief and bereavement, and stress management techniques. The goal is to train volunteers so they are comfortable and confident with the families they companion.

 In addition, guidance from Regional Hospice’s trained staff is always just a phone call away.

Training will take place on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from October 14 through November 4, 6 to 9, at the Regional Hospice office at 405 Main Street. Application, interview, references, and background check required. Application deadline is October 7. For information, contact Eleanor McClellan, Volunteer Coordinator, 797-1685, ext 31.

Adult bereavement, children bereavement, and administrative support volunteer opportunities are also available.