Needs From: United Way of West Florida

Objective:
Provide specialized emotional support and companionship to hospice patients who are military veterans, by connecting them with fellow veterans who understand their unique experiences and values.

Why Veteran-to-Veteran?
Veterans often feel a deep bond with others who’ve served. Shared experiences, values, and language can foster trust, making it easier for veteran patients to open up, reminisce, and find peace.

Volunteer Responsibilities:

Visit veteran patients regularly to offer companionship, conversation, and support Listen to military stories with understanding and respect Assist with pinning ceremonies or honor recognition events (e.g., presenting a certificate or American flag lapel pin) Help with legacy projects like memory books. Provide respite to caregivers by staying with the patient

Training Provided In:

Hospice care and philosophy Confidentiality (HIPAA), boundaries, and communication skills Military culture sensitivity and veteran-specific end-of-life concerns PTSD awareness and trauma-informed care

Time Commitment:
Flexible, usually 1-2 hours per week; based on patient need and volunteer availability

Ideal For:
Active Duty and Military veterans who want to give back by supporting fellow veterans at the end of life with dignity, honor, and compassion.

Objective:
Support hospice staff by assisting with essential behind-the-scenes tasks, helping ensure smooth operations so clinical staff can focus on patient care.

Volunteer Responsibilities May Include:

Filing and organizing patient charts or paperwork Preparing mailings for bereavement support or community outreach Answering phones, greeting visitors, or directing calls Creating admission packets or assembling materials for patients and families Helping with events such as memorial services or staff appreciation activities

Training Provided In:

HIPAA and confidentiality Office software and systems used Hospice mission, policies, and protocols Communication and professionalism

Time Commitment:
Flexible—typically 1-2 hours per week during business hours (Monday–Friday)

Ideal For:
Organized, detail-oriented individuals who enjoy office work and want to contribute meaningfully to end-of-life care without providing direct patient interaction.

Objective:
Provide emotional support and companionship to hospice patients, helping them feel valued, heard, and comforted in their final stage of life.

Volunteer Activities Could Include:

Friendly visits: Sitting with patients, chatting, listening to life stories, or simply being present. Engaging activities: Reading aloud, playing music, watching TV or movies, helping with simple crafts or puzzles. Comforting presence: Offering a hand to hold during difficult moments, sitting quietly when words aren’t needed. Legacy projects: Helping patients create memory books and write letters to loved ones. Respite for caregivers: Giving family members a short break while you stay with the patient.

Training Provided:

Hospice philosophy and protocols Active listening and compassionate communication Understanding grief, loss, and end-of-life stages Confidentiality and boundary-setting

Commitment:
1-2 hours per week; schedule based on volunteer availability and patient needs.

Ideal For:
Individuals with a calm, empathetic presence and a desire to bring comfort during life's final chapter.