Volunteer Program
Hospice and Palliative Care of Martha’s Vineyard volunteers support our care team, enhancing the quality of life for seriously ill community members as well as their families and caregivers. We also rely on the support of volunteers who assist with administrative tasks and fundraising events.
Volunteer Services
Patient Care Volunteers
Home visits for companionship, providing respite time for caregivers, home tasks & errands.
Administrative Volunteers
Office work, answering phones, durable medical equipment assembly, surveys, meal delivery.
Fundraising & Events Volunteers
Event planning, day-of event support, mailings, community and donor outreach.
Camp By The Sea Volunteers
Grief support & fun activities for children and their caregivers attending our one-day grief camp for families.
Why Volunteer for HPCMV?
Many of our volunteers were introduced to hospice through the death of someone close to them. They understand firsthand and appreciate the value of dignified, compassionate, and supportive end-of-life care.
Volunteers state that they find it personally gratifying, intellectually stimulating, and emotionally meaningful to be part of a team that provides patients and families with services at a critical time. Volunteers consistently report that helping a person who is terminally ill is about providing comfort and supporting an individualized quality of life plan. Read volunteer testimonials below.
There are different ways to volunteer; all are valuable and meaningful. Each has its own description and time commitment. In truth, we could not operate without the dedicated support of our volunteers. We are so grateful for their presence, commitment, and generosity.
Reach Out About Volunteering
Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteer Testimonials
Elaine Eugster Volunteer of the Year
The 2025 Annual HPCMV Elaine Eugster Volunteer Award winner is Craig Saunders, who was nominated because he truly demonstrates Elaine’s “Always say yes” spirit! After becoming eligible to volunteer in June 2022, Craig has accepted the greatest number of patient care assignments over the years. With a calm and pleasant attitude and an engaging sense of humor, Craig has entertained many patients with music. It’s no wonder that they enjoy time and discussions with him. Craig always goes the extra distance. He picks up IGI meals, assembles durable medical equipment, and shows up unasked after fundraising events with his truck to help clean up because he sees we need help.
Volunteer FAQ
What are the initial training and requirements for a Patient Care or Administrative volunteer?
Volunteers complete 15 hours of online webinar training and a 2-hour in-person orientation. We also require a background check and some standard Human Resources paperwork.
Why are the training and eligibility requirements so extensive?
Medicare considers hospice volunteers to be employees, so they are held to the same standards as our staff.
What is the schedule for a typical Patient Care assignment?
Most Patient Care volunteers visit one day a week for one to two hours.
I have a healthcare background. Can I be a professional volunteer in my area of expertise?
We don’t currently have roles for professional volunteers.
Why do Administrative volunteers need the same training as Patient Care volunteers?
Administrative volunteers answer phones, greet visitors, and help with agency tasks, so they need to understand hospice care and HIPAA privacy rules, just like our patient care team.
Do I need the training for Fundraising and Event volunteering?
No, the full hospice training isn’t required for fundraising and event volunteers. Depending on your role, you may need a short training on event technology or attend a few planning meetings to coordinate event logistics.