Hospice of the Northwest seeks compassionate, community-minded individuals to provide support and companionship to the dying and those who love them.  Volunteers bring the outside world in to those who are homebound or live in local facilities.  They serve as friendly visitors and provide respite for families and caregivers. Volunteers are needed throughout Skagit, Island, San Juan and Snohomish counties.

The volunteer training will be held on three consecutive Fridays: Oct. 23, Oct. 30 and Nov. 6.  Sessions will take place from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Hospice of the Northwest, 227 Freeway Drive, Suite A in Mount Vernon.

Volunteers read aloud, listen to stories, play cards, share hobbies, do puzzles, and record memories.  They may also help with household tasks. Hospice volunteers and patients are matched by location, interests and skills.  Visits take place an average of 1-2 hours/week at a mutually convenient time.

Trainings are offered just twice yearly and fill up quickly.

Those who are interested should contact Julie Pryor Barr, Volunteer Supervisor, 360.814.5588 or jbarr@hospicenw.org for an application.

Hospice of the Northwest is a venture of Skagit Valley Hospital and United General Hospital. Hospice provides compassionate, quality care for individuals and their families, helping  with the medical, social, emotional and spiritual concerns that arise during the end-of-life journey. Based in Mount Vernon, HNW serves Skagit, Island, San Juan and Snohomish Counties.