“There is nothing else that I have ever done that has given me
the feeling of satisfaction both for myself and for the families.”
Lena, Hospice Volunteer |
HOW DO HOSPICE VOLUNTEERS SERVE? Hospice of Central Montana serves both Fergus and Judith Basin Counties and has 75 volunteers from these two counties that devote their time, talents and love to our program. Volunteers help form the heart of hospice. A number of avenues of support are open to the volunteers of Hospice of Central Montana. Among them are: DIRECT SERVICES TO PATIENTS AND THEIR FAMILIES
Trained hospice volunteers provide direct services to patients and their families through emotional support and respite care to allow caregivers time to themselves. Visits can include listening, reading aloud, taking walks, or quiet companionship. The dedication and compassionate care of our volunteers support the wellbeing of our patients and their families in immeasurable ways. 
| “I started after my wife Cheryl volunteered. They needed men. I think I was the first man to volunteer.
I like to help out, visit the patient,
and reprieve the caregiver.
That’s a good thing.”
Don, Hospice Volunteer |
SPECIAL EVENTS
Volunteer support is needed throughout the year for a variety of fundraising and educational events sponsored by Hospice of Central Montana. The annual Hospice Christmas Memories and Home Tours and the annual Hospice Golf Tournament require many hours of volunteer support. CLERICAL ASSISTANCE
Hospice volunteers may choose to provide clerical support for the staff in areas including: donation acknowledgements, and assistance with mailings. HOW DO YOU BECOME A HOSPICE VOLUNTEER?
Contact the Hospice Volunteer Coordinator Candace Bowman at 406-538-6307. Volunteers who choose to do direct services to patients and their families are required to participate in a training course on hospice care, dealing with such topics as: death and dying, communications skills, spiritual care, the grief process, and the role of the volunteer. Hospice training courses are offered yearly in the Fall. Upon completion of the course, you may choose whether or not to become an active volunteer. After an interview with the Hospice Volunteer Coordinator, you may then be introduced to a hospice patient and their family. All volunteers participate in on-going continuing education opportunities provided by Hospice of Central Montana to enhance their skills.
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