THE CAPE’S LEADING HOSPICE ORGANIZATION SEEKS VOLUNTEERS FOR FALL TRAINING

THE CAPE’S LEADING HOSPICE ORGANIZATION SEEKS VOLUNTEERS FOR FALL TRAINING
“Most rewarding work I’ve ever done” volunteer says
HYANNIS – Sept. 15, 2008 – Cape Codders volunteering for Hospice & Palliative Care of Cape Cod (H & PCCC) are often asked by friends:  “How can you do that kind of work? Isn’t it depressing?” Though each may cite different reasons for donating their time, many would likely provide an answer similar to that of volunteer Tom Nee of Bourne.
“It’s some of the most rewarding work I’ve ever done  – you know you’re making a difference and growing and learning at the same time.”
Carol Williams of Osterville agrees. “I’m getting so much out of this – it’s a beautiful experience that fills me with grace, gratitude and joy.” Both Nee and Williams are among the many current patient volunteers who have gone through the in-depth 26-hour-long training the organization provides. It covers topics such as understanding the stages of grief, communication techniques, spiritual issues, and appropriate volunteer skills and roles.
As Williams says “The training covers so many different aspects in a way that’s easy to understand. It opened me up – I’m a different person because of it.” Nee adds “We did a lot of sharing and discussion that was rewarding in itself and provided me with emotional support.”Both provide companionship to families and patients as needed most.
Sometimes it’s just sitting and having a conversation, reading aloud, playing games or watching TV, or taking a patient out for a drive to see a sunset or walk the beach – volunteers can make a critical difference in providing patients with extra personal attention and giving caregivers much-needed breaks from the ongoing responsibilities of patient care.
In the process, deep friendships can be forged. Nee, a World War II veteran, often has patients who share their common experiences from that era. Williams finds her spiritual interests help her to connect with patients on their terms. “I learn from them what’s really important in life.”
Karen Knaub, Director of Volunteers for the organization says, “It’s so heartening to see what volunteers and patients give to each other. Volunteers bond with each other in the training and discover new aspects of themselves. It’s some of the most meaningful work any of us get to do in this life and it’s even more profound when it’s shared in community.”
Volunteers for Hospice & Palliative Care of Cape Cod appreciate the fact that they are donating their time to the Cape’s only independent, community-owned hospice provider. “It’s gratifying knowing we are helping an organization that is so deeply rooted in this community and does this work as their specialized focus and expertise, offering unique services to all regardless of ability to pay,” says Williams.
Volunteers can serve according to their schedules for as little or as much time as they have available. The upcoming fall training will be held at Hospice & Palliative Care of Cape Cod’s headquarters at 765 Attucks Lane in Hyannis on Oct. 28th, 30th, Nov. 4th, 6th and 11th. All applicants are interviewed and CORI checked to insure patient/ family safety, so applications are needed by October 1st in order to complete the screening process in time for the training.
Rewarding positions are also available in administrative support and at the H & PCCC thrift shop in Barnstable. But it’s patient and family volunteers who are most needed right now, especially on the Upper Cape.
Nee sums up his reasons for signing up: “I have been very lucky in life and now have the chance to give something back. Being a hospice volunteer is a great way to connect at a positive level to help people through trying times.”Call Knaub at 508-957-0280 or email her at volunteers@hospicecapecod.org for more information, or download an application at www.hospicecapecod.org