EverHeart Hospice Highlights Volunteer Opportunities On Spectrum

EverHeart Hospice Volunteer Coordinator Tasha Rosengarten joined WCSM’s Spectrum with host Kevin Sandler to discuss the many ways volunteers help support hospice patients and their families.

Rosengarten said she has been with EverHeart Hospice for a little over three years. Her role includes recruiting, training and supporting volunteers who serve patients and families throughout the area.

She said many people think hospice volunteers need a medical background, but that is not the case. Volunteer opportunities can include direct patient support, companionship, medication and supply deliveries, veteran pinning ceremonies, nursing honor guard ceremonies, caregiver relief, office work, sewing projects, bereavement candle deliveries and other behind-the-scenes support.

Rosengarten said volunteers are matched with roles that fit their comfort level, schedule and interests. She said EverHeart understands that people have busy lives and does not expect volunteers to commit to a full-time schedule.

She also said volunteers receive training before working with patients and families. Volunteers are not expected to provide medical care or assist with daily living tasks.

The conversation also focused on the emotional side of hospice work. Rosengarten said many volunteers have experienced grief or loss themselves and choose to give back because hospice care made an impact on their own families. She said the most important qualities in a volunteer are compassion, a willingness to listen and a heart to serve.

Sandler made the conversation personal near the end of the program, saying he has had several experiences with hospice care in his own family, including his grandmother, grandfather and his father earlier this year. He said those moments are difficult, but families remember the kind people who helped them through the process.

Rosengarten said those interested in volunteering can contact her at t.rosengarden@ehhospice.org, call 1-800-417-7535 or visit everhearthospice.org for more information.