Arkansas Hospice to host volunteer training May 21

Arkansas Hospice, the state’s largest nonprofit provider of hospice services, will host a volunteer training session in Hot Springs on Saturday, May 21, for anyone wanting to learn about the organization and its volunteer opportunities.

The training will begin at 9 a.m. in the Arkansas Hospice office at 508 Ouachita Ave., Suite A, and lunch will be provided.

“A vital part of the hospice care team, Arkansas Hospice volunteers are caring, committed people from all walks of life who gain a sense of satisfaction from making a difference in the lives of others,” a news release said.

“These volunteers provide ongoing support wherever a patient calls home in a variety of ways that include making personal visits or phone calls, sitting with patients to give caregivers a rest and, most of all, listening and sharing thoughts and feelings. Other volunteer opportunities include helping with office work and special events plus specialized volunteering in other areas, such as sewing and pet therapy.”

All Arkansas Hospice volunteers must be trained and certified. In addition, individuals must pass a background check and driving record check and provide evidence of a current driver’s license and automobile insurance. A tuberculosis skin test and a flu shot are also required if volunteering involves direct contact with patients in addition to being fully up-todate with COVID-19 vaccines and booster shots.

“Whatever your talents might be, you can make a big difference for our Arkansas Hospice patients and families,” Chasity Huchingson, volunteer coordinator, said in the release. “Your help is always welcome and appreciated.”

To register for the volunteer training, email chuchingson@ arkansashospice.org or call 501318-9992, or toll-free at 888-8189992, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Fridays.

Since 1992, Arkansas Hospice’s mission has been “to enhance the quality of life for those facing serious illness and loss by surrounding them with love and embracing them with the best in physical, emotional, and spiritual care. The hospice care provider is the recipient of numerous local, state, and national awards, as well as numerous other awards for quality of care, including Hospice Honors Elite from HEALTHCAREFIRST, as well as the only hospice in Arkansas to be certified by the Arkansas Department of Veterans Affairs for nonprofit service to Arkansas’ veteran population.”