LIHUE — Kauai Hospice will host a volunteer training for community members who are interested in serving seriously ill individuals and their families as they near the end of life. “Volunteers are an important element of the compassionate care an
LIHUE — Kauai Hospice will host a volunteer training for community members who are interested in serving seriously ill individuals and their families as they near the end of life.
“Volunteers are an important element of the compassionate care an individual receives through Kauai Hospice,” says volunteer coordinator Rayne Regush. “Our volunteers are deeply appreciated for their desire and willingness to provide comfort and support to the dying and their family members.”
The three-day (20-hour) training is held over two weekends in October, on the 21, 22 and 28. Participants must schedule a pre-screening interview and be able to attend all three sessions.
Classes focus on key issues that patients and their families face during this time of impending death. Coursework includes: the history and philosophy of hospice; the role of the volunteer; family dynamics; effective listening skills; death awareness exercises; confidentiality, universal precautions; spiritual and cultural diversity; and grieving and bereavement.
Presenters will include Dr. Michael Plumer, Kauai Hospice medical director, a hospice social worker, patient care coordinator, chaplain, and bereavement counselor.
“Currently, we are seeking more volunteers from Kekaha to Kalaheo and Koloa to serve patients in their homes or at residential facilities.” notes Regush.
Volunteer requirements include background checks, tuberculosis screening, and a valid driver’s license if driving to volunteer assignments.
The training is free of charge and will take place at the Kauai Hospice Center for Compassion at 4457 Pahee St., Lihue. Application forms are available at www.kauaihospice.org or by calling Regush, 245-7277.
