Hospice volunteers
Your heart. Their comfort.
Every day, families across our community face life's most profound journey. Volunteers like you step forward to make sure no one walks this path alone.
Let's start with a conversation.
Free, no obligation. In person or over the phone.
Refer a patient.
Same-day admissions when the patient and family are ready.
Intake email
intake@cairohospice.comFor a time-sensitive referral, please call. The intake line is open 24/7.
Training on your scheduleWeekend, evening, online or hybrid sessions.
The heart of our mission
When medicine reaches its limits, your presence speaks volumes.
Volunteers are a required part of Medicare-certified hospice programs, keeping the original spirit of hospice, community-driven support, intact. When you volunteer with Cairo Hospice, you become part of a time-honored tradition that puts human connection at the heart of care.
The rewards of hospice volunteering
Meaningful contribution
Make a profound difference in someone's final chapter.
Life perspective
Gain perspective on what truly matters in life.
Emotional connection
Connect with families during meaningful moments.
Thorough training
Receive comprehensive training and ongoing support.
Flexible commitment
Flexible scheduling that works with your availability.
Team belonging
Be part of a compassionate, professional healthcare team.
You become part of stories that matter and memories families treasure.
- A gentle presence
turns anxiety into peace
- A listening ear
turns isolation into connection
- A moment of respite
turns exhaustion into new strength
Volunteer opportunities
Where your compassion finds its home.
Whether you're drawn to time at the bedside, prefer behind-the-scenes support, or want to use special skills, we have meaningful roles that match your interests and schedule.
Bedside & companion
Companionship and emotional support
Visit with patients to offer a listening ear, conversation, reading aloud, shared hobbies, or simply being present. Friendly conversation can open the way for people to talk honestly about their questions and fears.
Legacy and life review projects
Help patients write or record their life story, and create photo albums, letters to loved ones and other keepsakes for future generations.
Respite for families
Give family caregivers essential breaks while their loved one has company. Volunteers may also help with shopping or light household tasks.
Special skills and therapies
Certified volunteers may offer massage therapy, aromatherapy or therapeutic touch. Bilingual volunteers can interpret for patients who don't speak English.
Administrative & support
Office and clerical support
Help with data entry, filing, answering phones, mailings and other tasks that keep our organization running smoothly.
Event planning and fundraising
Support community events, awareness campaigns, fundraising and volunteer appreciation gatherings, and help us reach more families.
Bereavement support
Experienced patient support volunteers can take extra training to support grieving families through phone calls, support groups and memorial services.
Transportation assistance
Help patients get to medical appointments or social activities when family isn't available, so no one misses out for lack of a ride.
Training
Building confident volunteers.
Preparing our volunteers is vitally important for our patients and for you. You'll learn hospice and palliative care philosophy and the physical and emotional sides of serious illness, so you feel ready and supported.
What the training covers
- Hospice philosophy and end-of-life concepts
- Communication skills for sensitive conversations
- Understanding grief and bereavement
- Patient confidentiality and HIPAA requirements
- Safety protocols and infection control
- Recognizing signs of distress and when to seek help
- Staying well: strategies for volunteers
Requirements
A kind heart and a willing spirit.
Many of our most valued volunteers came to us with no healthcare experience, just a wish to serve others. What matters most is compassion, reliability and willingness to learn. We'll provide everything else, and guide you if you don't meet every point perfectly.
- At least 18 years old to sit with patients. Volunteers 16 and older may help in the café.
- Emotional maturity, since volunteering in hospice can be an intense experience.
- Compassionate, reliable and punctual.
- Able to keep information confidential.
- Committed to completing the required training.
Volunteering with Cairo Hospice has taught me so much about courage, grace, and what it means to truly live. The families I've worked with have given me far more than I could ever give them.
Ready to make a difference?
Your community needs compassionate volunteers like you.
Don't wait for the perfect time. We'll provide all the training and support you need. Start your application today, or call us with any questions.