The Heart of Hospice: How Volunteers Make the Difference
Volunteering with a nonprofit hospice organization is not just about giving your time—it’s about making a profound difference in someone’s life.
At Lightways Hospice and Serious Illness Care, our volunteers are an essential part of the care team, bringing comfort, dignity, and connection to patients and families during one of life’s most tender chapters.
Unlike other healthcare settings, hospice care is not only about medical support—it’s about creating moments of peace, compassion, and humanity. Volunteers make that possible. As a nonprofit hospice, Lightways relies on volunteers to extend the reach of our care and add the extra touches of kindness that clinical teams alone cannot provide.
The Impact of a Hospice Volunteer
- Volunteers hold a hand so patients don’t feel alone.
- They give family caregivers a chance to rest, knowing someone compassionate is present.
- They create memorial bears from loved ones’ clothing, giving families a tangible way to remember.
- They answer phones, make check-in calls, and assist with projects that keep services running smoothly.
- Each act—big or small—ripples out to provide comfort, reassurance, and dignity at a time when families need it most.
Do Hospice Volunteers Need Special Training?
No prior experience is necessary. Lightways provides training to ensure volunteers feel confident and supported. Many volunteers share that they not only gain new skills but also experience personal growth, perspective, and a deeper sense of purpose.
What Makes a Great Hospice Volunteer?
Compassion, empathy, and reliability are at the heart of this role. Excellent listening skills, a non-judgmental attitude, and flexibility help volunteers make meaningful connections with patients and families.
Do I Need a Lot of Time to Volunteer?
Not at all. Some volunteers give just one or two hours a week. Others help during specific times of the year or around their schedules. Every moment matters—and every hour volunteered brings light to someone’s day.
Recognizing Our Volunteers
At Lightways, we know that volunteers give from the heart. That’s why we celebrate their contributions in meaningful ways, including an annual recognition event. But more importantly, volunteers see their impact every day—in a patient’s smile, a family’s gratitude, and the peace they help create.
Why It Matters
Many people say, “I don’t think I could do that.” But time and again, new volunteers discover that hospice work is not about sadness—it’s about creating moments of joy, relief, and connection when they are needed most. Volunteers often say they receive far more than they give.
No matter your background, age, skills, or availability, there is a place for you at Lightways Hospice and Serious Illness Care. Your time, your kindness, and your presence can change lives.
Become a Volunteer
Learn more about becoming a volunteer or call us directly at 815.740.4104.