Become a hero on your own terms
On your own time. In your own way. With your personality. Your ability to relate. Your own skills. Your way of solving a problem, sharing a story, helping somebody remember important moments in their lives.

You can be one of our volunteers
When you give us the precious gift of your time and interest, we give you a chance to make a real difference in someone’s life. We train you, find you the right assignment and stand behind you as you grow.

There are Two Types of Volunteers

1. Companion Volunteers: Also known as Patient Care Volunteers, Companion Volunteers are part of a patient’s care team. They provide direct and indirect patient care. Examples of direct patient care volunteer opportunities include reading to the patient, assisting with a hobby, listening, running errands, providing caregiver relief (respite), or grocery shopping and more. Indirect patient care opportunities include planting flowers, mowing a yard for a patient who is unable to continue doing so, and helping with other needs of our patients and families.

2. Administrative Volunteers: Administrative Volunteers do not work directly with patients and families. Examples of organizational volunteer opportunities include work in the Madison Hospice office to support our care team or help patients and families through indirect support such as filing, mailings, fundraising, etc.

Core Requirements for Becoming a Hospice Volunteer

• Age & Identification: Must be at least 18 years old and have a valid driver’s license or state ID and auto insurance (if providing transportation).
• Background Check: You must pass a standard criminal background check, for which we pay.
• Health Screenings: Proof of immunity to certain contagious diseases and a Tuberculosis (TB) test are required before interacting with patients.
• Grief Waiting Period: If you are grieving the loss of an immediate family member or loved one, most hospices require a waiting period of at least 12 months before you can be assigned to direct patient care.

Training and Commitment

• Orientation & Training: You will need to complete comprehensive training covering the hospice philosophy, death and dying, communication skills, infection control, and patient privacy (HIPAA).
• Time Commitment: 1–4 hours per week or a minimum of 20–50 hours per year, for at least 6 to 12 months. [1

Application

Fill out the form below to apply, thank you!