Luncheon and dinner socials provide an opportunity for anyone who has lost a loved one to meet with others and share support. There may be a featured speaker who can address topics related to grief and loss. Participants are asked to pay for their own meal. Please call 410-742-8732 to register before the event.

Join us for an informational meeting to learn how you can become a volunteer for Coastal Hospice.

Volunteers are an important part of the Coastal Hospice team.They become a companion to patients and their families, respite to caregivers,and support in fundraising for Coastal Hospice. Volunteers help with practical needs, like running errands or providing transportation. Volunteers are compassionate listeners and valuable members of the team.

Volunteer opportunities include the following:

Patient/Family Support:Offer a listening ear, read to patients, share stories, run errands if neededor most importantly just sit and hold a patient's hand.

Bereavement: Support bereaved family members by keeping in touch with them through phone calls,notes and cards. Participate in workshops and programs, such as our Hope and Healing with Horses program, which combines individual and group counseling with games and equine assisted activities for children who have lost a loved one.

Community Education:Provide vital information regarding Coastal Hospice services through community-based education, health fairs and presentations to organizations.

Special Events: Assist with fundraising events that we hold throughout the year including our Annual Geranium Sale, Tim Kennard River Run/Walk, Angel Appeal, Purnell-Thomas Memorial Tennis Tournament and our Annual Party.

Many Coastal Hospice volunteers say it is a unique and rewarding experience that changes their lives. They are grateful for the opportunity to give back to their community and feel privileged to provide assistance in a family's most difficult moments.

Whether you have a couple of hours a week or a few days a month to share, we will find a schedule that works for you. If you have the desire to help others, our staff-led training will provide you with all the tools you need to serve.

Volunteer activities are flexible and involvement can be tailored to fit your schedule. All volunteers involved in patient care are offered specialized training and are required to complete volunteer training prior to working with patients and families. The training is designed to help you understand the concept of hospice care and your role as a member of the Coastal Hospice care team. Trainings are offered three times a year and explore the physical, social, emotional and spiritual aspects of caring for a patient with a life-limiting illness and his or her family. In-service training on various topics is offered throughout the year,expanding your knowledge base and refreshing your skills.

Founded in 1980, Coastal Hospice is a private non-profit community program that provides traditional hospice services, palliative care, bereavement support, education and training to residents in Wicomico, Worcester, Dorchester, and Somerset Counties on Maryland's Lower Eastern Shore. About 100 people are employed by Coastal Hospice and over 300 individuals volunteer.

For more information contact Judy Hunt-Harris, Volunteer Services Manager, at 410-742-8732, ext. 107or email Judy Hunt-Harris.

Memorial events are held in each of the four counties we serve: Wicomico, Somerset, Dorchester and Worcester. They provide an opportunity to come together with others in the community and remember those who have died. RSVP to Lenora at (410) 726-6405.

These groups encourage mutual support and understanding by providing an environment where participants can discuss and explore their feelings of grief and how they are coping. Please call 410-742-8732 to register before the event.