Hospice of Santa Barbara Welcomes New Patient Care Volunteers

By Kenny Slaught

Hospice of Santa Barbara

● A large network of volunteers empowers Hospice of Santa Barbara to deliver its critical services to the local community. To ensure that these individuals provide the highest level of service possible, the organization offers Patient Care volunteer training.

● The curriculum covers a wide range of relevant topics, including cultural awareness, family dynamics, and grief and loss. The most recent graduating class finished its six weeks of intensive training at the end of May.

Role of Patient Care Volunteers

● Now that these volunteers have graduated from training, they will join the dedicated team of Hospice of Santa Barbara caregivers.

● Patient Care volunteers offer companionship, transportation, respite care, and household help to patients and their families. Patients depend on the organization for social, spiritual, emotional, and practical support.

● In short, Patient Care volunteers play a key role in ensuring that all these needs are met.

Support for Children and Teenagers

● In addition to individuals facing the end of life, Hospice of Santa Barbara works with children and teenagers going through the grief process. Patient Care volunteers may also assist these young people.