Organization Policies
Please consider the self-assessment ideas expressed below as you consider volunteering with Hospice Simcoe:
- You are not bringing your personal agenda or mission to your Hospice work, and understand that our work is not to change people, but to be with them and meet them where they are.
- If you have experienced a significant personal loss within the past year, one which you are still actively grieving, please consider carefully your present ability to take on a demanding training program. Personal loss can include job loss, significant health changes or the end of a significant relationship. This work can intensify your own grief. We will review each applicant individually in this regard.
- You have an interest in the Hospice philosophy of care, and have the desire to help others. You have some awareness of what is drawing you to Hospice work, and are willing to explore this in depth.
- You are sensitive to the special needs of dying patients and their families, and have chosen to work to support them.
- You are aware of the losses you have experienced, and your way of grieving, and have a sense of perspective about life and death, loss and grief.
- You are open to others who may have different values, beliefs and ways of living. You are able to listen well, and to validate others where they are, rather than where you might believe they should be.
- Self-reliance, flexibility and adaptability are assets. You may be called on to work in a variety of areas and perform many different tasks. Realistic awareness of your own strengths and weaknesses, and the ability to set limits are important.
- You like working as part of a team, and be willing to explore ways of supporting and being supported by other team members. You are dedicated to your own growth and on-going learning. Your personal strengths will likely include warmth, concern for people, sense of humour, approachability, flexibility and an understanding of healthy boundaries
- You are willing to commit yourself to training and the volunteer responsibilities set forth for your category of interest and to gaining an understanding of the policy and procedures of the Hospice program.
- You have a strong support team away from Hospice Simcoe. Working at Hospice can be stressful at times so it is important that you have good support and ways of taking care of yourself, meeting change and the unexpected with ease.
Thank you for your interest in volunteering with Hospice Simcoe.
Volunteer Resources screen all applications and will contact those applicants most appropriate for available positions to arrange an interview. Due to the high volume of applications, we are unable to accommodate everyone.