THE HEART OF VNA
Volunteer with us
Volunteers are at the heart of the VNA and are a key resource to the agency. More than 400 dedicated individuals generously donate their time and talent to assist in various aspects of the VNA. There are a range of responsibilities that covers the various areas of volunteering. Whether it is interacting with patients, being an extra hand in the VNA Hospice House, providing assistance around the office, or providing support in our Hidden Treasures Thrift Store, volunteers can be found in all aspects of our organization.
AmeriCorps
AmeriCorps Seniors is one of the largest volunteer networks for people 55 and over. AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP volunteers use their skills and experience to tackle a wide range of activities supporting other seniors, veterans, hospice patients and families, bereavement clients and more throughout the VNA organization.
change lives
Looking for Ways to Make A Difference?
Our volunteers are men, women and young adults who work in many areas and provide assistance in a variety of settings. By becoming a member of this service-oriented group, you can make a difference for yourself and for others. Here are some typical VNA Volunteer opportunities.
These volunteers are often found providing physical, emotional, and spiritual support in homes throughout Indian River County as well as in area hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities and at the VNA Hospice House – they offer respite care, help run errands or just visit with patients and families. In addition to providing support in a patient’s home, there are various aspects for volunteers who wish to work with patients and their families.
The Veteran-to-Veteran Volunteer Program pairs recruited veteran volunteers with hospice patients who have been identified as veterans. Once paired with hospice patients who also have military experience, veteran volunteers have the unique ability to relate and connect with each patient thereby creating an environment where life review and healing may occur.
Veteran-to-Veteran volunteer activities include:
- Assist veterans in reminiscing/telling life stories
- Educate and assist patients in receiving veteran benefits
- Take part in pinning ceremonies or distribute certificates for Veteran’s Day and other recognition events
- Assist in replacing lost medals
- Provide transportation
Volunteers provide comfort, compassion and support to families during the final 24 to 48 hours of a patient’s life. This is often the time when families need reassurance from a volunteer. Sitting with a patient and holding a hand can help. Our Vigil Volunteers receive additional training to prepare them for this role.
Volunteer roles at the VNA Hospice House include serving as patient companions and family liaisons as well as assisting with kitchen duties, administrative support and entertainment.
There are times when VNA associates could use an extra set of hands around the office. Volunteers can assist with the day-to-day administrative duties such as filing, data entry, mailings, and reception duties.
The VNA Hidden Treasures Thrift Store relies on volunteers to help support the day-to-day activities of the store. Sorting through donations, tagging merchandise, running the cash register and assisting customers are just some of the ways volunteers help keep the store operating. The store is located in Vero Beach, and proceeds from the store helps VNA Hospice provide care for Indian River County patients with life-limiting illnesses and also support the day-to-day operating expenses of the VNA Hospice House.