VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES AT HOSPICE OF THE CONEJO

Hospice of the Conejo offers many opportunities to serve hospice patients and families with care and compassion. There are also ways to serve in the community and in our Thousand Oaks office. We love our volunteers and view them as integral members of our organization. See below for more information and how to apply.

Our next Volunteer Training will be coming soon. In addition to developing an understanding of the philosophy and history of palliative and hospice care, this unique educational regimen prepares individuals to deal compassionately and sensitively with end-of-life issues by providing participants with the necessary skills and knowledge to be of service to individuals facing life-limiting illnesses and their loved ones before, during and after the end-of-life transition.

For more information, please call Volunteer Manager Heather Toole at (805) 495-2145 or email htoole@hospiceoftheconejo.org. Training is free.

QUALIFICATIONS

  • An interest in the hospice concept

  • Maturity, stability and dependability

  • Good listening skills and the ability to be comfortable with silences

  • Ability to work as a team member

  • Understanding of and adherence to the principles of confidentiality

REQUIREMENTS

  • Successful completion of our 27-hour training program and periodic on-going training.

LENGTH OF COMMITMENT

  • Approximately two to three hours a week.

PATIENT CARE VOLUNTEERS

Since 1977, Hospice of the Conejo has relied upon the kindness and compassion of our volunteers who serve patients and families facing life-limiting illnesses. With open hearts, our volunteers offer a thoughtful voice and listening ear. In preparation for this incredible, rewarding opportunity, volunteers receive specialized training over an eight-week period, one afternoon per week. They commit to 2-3 hour weekly visits. Our volunteers are there to hold a hand, to listen, to comfort; they may prepare a meal, brush their patient’s hair, or take them to their favorite coffee shop.

They may run errands and lend much-needed emotional support, care and guidance to their patients long before the patient qualifies for medical hospice. Lastly, our volunteers provide direct support, respite and guidance to care-giving family members who often struggle with what is often a first time and overwhelming experience.

VIGIL VOLUNTEERS

These volunteers assist in our No One Dies Alone (NODA) program. They are hospice-trained volunteers who provide a reassuring presence at the bedside of people in their final hours of life who would otherwise die alone because loved ones are unable to be present. This service is offered at Los Robles Hospital as well as at private board and care and/or assisted living facilities.

PATIENT/PET SUPPORT VOLUNTEERS

These volunteers help patients keep their beloved pet by their side during their illness by walking, feeding, grooming and otherwise caring for the pet, as our patients many times do not have the means to do so. (Hospice training is not required to be a Patient/Pet volunteer.)

VOLUNTEER AND HELP MAKE A DIFFERENCE

ADMINISTRATIVE VOLUNTEERING ROLES

ADMINISTRATIVE VOLUNTEERS

Volunteers are an integral part of our organization and volunteer their specialized professional expertise by assisting with administrative and office duties. They may also lead a support group, assist with grant administration, provide professional photography services, or speak to community groups about hospice.

FUNDRAISING VOLUNTEERS

Fundraising volunteers serve on event committees and support our fundraising efforts. These include our annual Golf Tournament, Thanksgiving Morning Run/Walk (Turkey Day Dash), Tree of Life Celebration and Festival of Trees Decorating Contest.

TECHNICAL VOLUNTEERS

Assist with social media marketing, computer programming and website development.

If you are interested in becoming a Hospice volunteer, please call Heather Toole at (805) 495-2145 or email htoole@hospiceoftheconejo.org.