"Centre for Supportive Care, can I help you?" This is what you'll hear if you call Delta Hospice any weekday between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Yes, a real person will be on the other end of the phone, ready to assist any way they can. Reception volunteers offer that human-to-human connection that makes a world of difference to people faced with a new lifelimiting diagnosis, trying to navigate the complicated health care system or struggling with a recent loss.
Reception is one of a variety of opportunities available to people choosing to volunteer with Delta Hospice.
Volunteers cover a morning or afternoon shift, greeting clients and visitors, answering phones and helping with administrative tasks and projects. Several volunteers have been at the desk for many years, while others fill in when regular volunteers are not available.
Volunteer Richard Howes' primary hospice focus is at Irene Thomas Hospice residence, where he volunteers weekly, supporting patients and families at the end of life, but he's also one of those reception spares.
He calls his occasional work at the care centre reception desk "a refreshing change of pace."
"The reception role is an important one for the Delta Hospice Society. Often we are the first contact for people in need."
If this compassionate work appeals to you, Delta Hospice is offering a volunteer training program from Sept. 12 to Oct. 21. Sessions will be Tuesday evenings and three Saturdays - Sept. 16, Oct. 14 and 21.
If you would like to learn more about the training or the opportunities available to Delta Hospice volunteers, call 604-948-0660.
