Wooster, Ohio –  Have you ever wondered how you could help when members of our community are facing the crisis of terminal illness? If you have, you may be interested to know that Ohio’s Hospice LifeCare will offer volunteer training in our facility in Wooster, located at 1900 Akron Road, beginning on Monday, February 12 at 6:30 pm. The first class is an introduction to hospice and can help you decide if hospice volunteering is for you. There is no charge and attendance does not obligate you to anything.

Beki McCurdy, volunteer coordinator said, “We are greatly in need of individuals interested in supporting patients and families who are facing terminal illness. The focus of our training is on equipping people to help terminally ill persons live their lives to the fullest for as long as possible.  Through our volunteers we look to enhance the quality of life of our patients with companionship, music, the company of certified therapy animals, and spiritual support. In addition, our volunteers can help family caregivers by giving them a break or assistance with the tasks that help keep the household running smoothly during the crisis of terminal illness.”  

The training includes hospice history and philosophy, active listening and communication techniques, pain and symptom control, hospice care in private homes, in nursing homes and in our inpatient facility, body mechanics and physical transfers, infection control, meeting the emotional needs of dying and grieving persons, spiritual care of dying and grieving persons, and bereavement care training. An abbreviated training is also provided for those interested in volunteering in the hospice office in a clerical role. 

“Hospice volunteering is about being a good neighbor.  It is about people of this community helping their neighbors at a critical time in their lives,” McCurdy says.  “Even if someone isn’t sure if hospice work is for them, they are encouraged to come to that first session. It’s the perfect way to find out if this is something you would like.  You are not committing yourself by taking the training, but if you do decide to join our team, you will join some of the finest people in the community who wake up every morning knowing they really make a difference for those around them.”

Anyone interested is encouraged to contact Beki McCurdy at 330.264.4899 or RMcCurdy@lifecarehospice.org.