For immediate release                     February 12, 2003

Sharon Regional's Hospice Volunteer Training Program needs volunteers

Sharon Regional Health System's Hospice Program needs volunteers for patient care, bereavement support and office work. Hospice assists patients with a limited life expectancy (six months or less) and their families so the patients can remain in their homes surrounded by people they love. Hospice is aware of a growing need in the community for both hospice and bereavement services and is expanding programs to assist more people.

Hospice needs volunteers to serve in all areas of Mercer County, northern Lawrence County and eastern Trumbull County. The next Hospice volunteer training program starts Tuesday, March 25 and continues every Tuesday, 1 p.m.-4:30 p.m. through April 29 at the Home Health/Hospice office, Canterbury Square (intersection of Highland Road and North Kerrwood Drive), Hermitage.

The course has a professional instructor who prepares volunteers to provide emotional support to patients and their families. Volunteers, who can be of any age or background, are an integral part of the Hospice team. They should be compassionate and interested in caring for terminally ill patients and their families.

Patient volunteer assignments are made in the volunteer's area when possible. Volunteers can provide patients with company, help with errands, and become a friend and good listener to the patient's caregiver. Bereavement volunteers work with families after death. Office volunteers help with mailings and other paperwork.

Those interested should call the Hospice office at 724-983-5935 or 800-441-8538 by March 1. Class size is limited to 12.

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