Evolving Volunteerism at Coast Hospice

The Sunshine Coast Hospice has a long history of volunteerism, dating back to 1987 when the spouse of a patient at St. Mary's Hospital (now Sechelt Hospital) brought forward the concept of better hospice care.

A call from the palliative care team from St Mary's Hospital churned up 15 volunteers, and the first volunteer trainers and coordinators, Heather Blackwood and Rosemary Hoare, took to work.

In the 35 years following, hundreds of volunteers have followed those original 15 and have been the heart of Sunshine Coast Hospice.

Doreen George, the volunteer coordinator at Hospice since 2020, points out that hospice volunteering is not just a service. "It's more of a calling," she says. Hospice now has a volunteer corps of more than 65 people. This photo features the class of 2023 having completed their 35-hour induction training program.

Hospice has developed programs and resources for clients to meet evolving needs, such as support groups, workshops, and volunteer-led counselling. These programs also create more volunteer opportunities to get involved and use their skills. Volunteers also assist with administrative tasks and fundraising events at Hospice House in Davis Bay.

Doreen says that most of the hospice volunteers are seniors and retired people, but she is also happy to see some younger volunteers joining the team. "They bring a different energy and perspective," she says. "And they can relate better to some of our younger clients who are facing terminal illnesses or grief."

If you want a meaningful way to give back to your community, consider becoming a hospice volunteer. Hospice volunteers are essential to the Sunshine Coast Hospice team. To sign up or learn more about Hospice services, please contact Doreen at 604-740-0475 or visit www.coasthospice.com/be-a-hospice-volunteer.

Coast Hospice Volunteer Group of 2023 following the annual orientation program.