How You Can Help

Volunteer Opportunities

As a volunteer, there are numerous ways to help Hospice of the Carolina Foothills carry out its mission, and all ways are vital. We need folks who can hold a hand, comfort a loss, use a computer, deliver supplies, bake cookies, sew a lap quilt, and so much more. One of our greatest ongoing needs is for patient companion volunteers. Of our more than 150 volunteers, about 50 are patient companions, and on any given day the number of patients is usually at least twice that number.

The work of a HoCF volunteer is amazingly rewarding; and it is common to hear volunteers say over and over, "You get back so much more than you give."

We hope you will find a way to use your interests and talents to volunteer with us.

Patient and Family Support
Patient companion volunteers are a vital part of our hospice team. They work in private homes, nursing homes, assisted living and retirement communities, and hospitals to provide companionship for patients and to give caregivers a break. These volunteers sit with patients, listen to their stories, read, play music, help with hobbies, and hold a hand. Their visits often give family members a much-needed break. Sometimes they help with pets, do light yard work or gardening, or run errands.

Eleventh Hour Volunteers A particular role that some patient companions fulfill is to simply “stand by” during the final 24 to 48 hours of a patient's life. They sit at the bedside, providing a peaceful presence and bringing comfort to the family.

Bereavement Support
These volunteers keep in touch with those who are grieving by calling, writing, and visiting in person. They also assist at support groups and bereavement seminars.

Good Samaritans
Good Samaritans serve as liaisons between their churches and hospice, to ensure that the needs of the church family and community will be conveyed to hospice, and to keep the church community aware of opportunities at hospice for education, support and service.

Office Support
These helping hands do computer work, filing, and assist with mailings.

Special Events
Health fairs, brochure and newsletter delivery, community parades and our Annual Tree of Remembrance are some of the times special events volunteers pitch in.

Hospitality Committee
This group bakes, decorates, and sometimes serves at community events held at hospice.

How Do I Get Started?
If you're interested in volunteering or would like more information, call Diane Nelson at 828.894.7000 or 800.617.7132, or email dnelson@hocf.org.

[ Click here to see what volunteers have to say about their experiences with hospice. ]