COÖS & GRAFTON COUNTY- July 21st, 2023- The Hospice Volunteer Program at North Country Home Health & Hospice Agency (NCHHHA) is thrilled to announce the successful completion of its two-part 2023 Summer Volunteer training on July 21st. Sixteen dedicated and compassionate individuals completed the Hospice Volunteer Training program, equipping them with the skills and knowledge to support patients and their families during the end-of-life journey.
The NCHHHA Hospice Volunteer Training program is designed to prepare community members from various counties to become skilled and empathetic volunteers in end-of-life care. The comprehensive 4-week course, condensed into two days, covers a wide range of topics, including the history and philosophy of hospice, perspectives on death and dying, effective communication and listening skills, signs of impending death and comfort care, grief and loss, self-care, and caring for one’s spirit.
“At NCHHHA, we believe in acknowledging the reality of the end-of-life journey and providing compassionate care that focuses on living and dying well,” said Ren Anderson, Senior Manager of Philanthropy & Community Engagement at NCHHHA. “Our Hospice Volunteer Training program plays a crucial role in preparing volunteers to join us in this mission, ensuring that they are equipped with the necessary skills and understanding to make a difference in the lives of our patients and their families.”
The Hospice Volunteer Program at NCHHHA offers a variety of roles for volunteers to contribute their expertise and compassion. Volunteers can engage in direct patient care by visiting patients and families in various settings, offering companionship, respite care, and assistance with daily tasks. Additionally, volunteers can provide alternative therapies, facilitate art enrichment activities, offer bereavement support, assist with administrative tasks, and contribute specialized skills such as cosmetology, massage therapy, photography, and music.
“We are immensely grateful to our volunteers for their dedication and commitment to providing comprehensive and compassionate care,” added Tiffany Haynes, President and CEO at NCHHHA. “Their contributions bring comfort, companionship, and dignity to our patients and their loved ones during this significant phase of life.” The completion of the 2023 Summer Volunteer training marks an important milestone for the Hospice Volunteer Program at NCHHHA. The newly trained volunteers are now ready to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals and families facing the challenges of end-of-life care.