Veterans Helping Veterans

The Veteran-to-Veteran Volunteer Program connects veterans with hospice patients who have also served in the armed forces. Shared experience can create a natural sense of understanding, respect, and connection that is difficult to replicate in other ways.

Veteran volunteers offer presence and companionship shaped by common ground. This may include conversation, quiet visits, or participating in recognition activities that honor a patient’s service, depending on the patient’s wishes and comfort level.

Veteran volunteers may assist with:

• Friendly visits and conversation

• Listening to life stories or shared memories

• Participating in pinning ceremonies or recognition events

• Supporting communication with family members when appropriate

• Reading to patients

• Offering caregiver respite

• Assisting with locating or replacing service medals

• Helping patients connect with available veteran benefits through appropriate channels

Veteran volunteers are not expected to counsel, fix, or relive their own service experiences. The role is about presence, respect, and shared understanding, offered within clear boundaries and with hospice team support.

Training and ongoing guidance are provided so volunteers feel prepared and supported in this role.