VOLUNTEER TRAINING PROGRAM OFFERED BY
HOSPICE & PALLIATIVE CARE

Raynham, MA – August 4, 2008 — A specialized volunteer training program to prepare individuals who wish to provide companionship and support to patients and family members who are coping with end-of-life illness is scheduled to begin on Monday, September 22, 2008.

Hospice volunteers have the opportunity to serve as companions to patients, providing them with a caring friend to talk with, while offering respite time for family caregivers. Other volunteer roles include administrative support, helping with fundraising activities and delivery of essential supplies to patients and families. The program will be lead by a highly skilled interdisciplinary staff team who will provide training and support on all aspects of volunteer companionship including communication and listening skills, patient safety, pain identification and more.

The 4 week training program will meet on Monday and Thursday evenings from 5:30 to 8:30 pm at the Visiting Nurse Association of Southeastern Massachusetts office located at 244 North Main Street, Raynham, MA. Individuals must be at least 18 years of age, be willing to undergo a background check, and be able to commit to 3 to 5 hours per week for patient/family assignments. Upon conclusion of the training, participants will receive a certificate of completion, Hospice Volunteer Pin, and the opportunity to participate in additional specialized training programs including bereavement companionship, pastoral care and Camp Erin. Ongoing monthly support meetings will also be provided to volunteers.

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Individuals who would like to enroll or learn more about this rewarding volunteer opportunity should contact Penny Gosson, Volunteer Liaison at 508-673-589 extension 1925 or email pgosson@vnasm.org.

Hospice & Palliative Care is a program of the Visiting Nurse Association of Southeastern Massachusetts, Inc. that provides quality, compassionate care for people facing an end-of-life illness. Hospice and Palliative Care involves a team approach to pain and symptom management as well as emotional and spiritual support that is tailored to the patient’s needs and wishes. For more information call 1-800-423-8001 or visit www.vnasm.org/hospice.htm.