Extraordinary People Needed to Sit Vigil with Hospice Patients (Worcester Region)

Vigil Volunteer (On‑Call)

Autumn Hospice | Massachusetts

At Autumn Hospice, we believe no one should face the end of life alone. We are seeking compassionate, dependable volunteers to provide a calm, comforting presence for patients in their final hours. Sitting vigil is a deeply meaningful role—offering companionship, dignity, and peace during life’s final transition.

Role Overview

Vigil Volunteers ensure that actively dying patients are not alone when family members are unavailable, need respite, or are not present. Volunteers offer quiet, compassionate presence and emotional support. No physical or medical care is provided.

Volunteer Responsibilities

• • Sit quietly at a patient’s bedside
  • Offer comfort through presence, hand‑holding, or gentle reassurance
  • Read aloud, listen, or play soft music as desired
  • Help maintain a peaceful environment (dim lights, calm surroundings)
  • Provide emotional support to patients and, when appropriate, family members

Location

Assignments vary and may take place in private homes, skilled nursing facilities, or assisted living communities throughout our service area.

Requirements

• • Age 18 or older
  • Comfortable with death and the dying process
  • Calm, grounded, and emotionally steady in sensitive situations
  • Compassionate, nonjudgmental, and a strong listener
  • Flexible and able to respond to assignments on short notice
  • Valid driver’s license, auto insurance, and reliable access to a vehicle
  • Massachusetts resident
  • Healthcare or hospice experience welcome, but not required

Schedule

This is an on‑call, as‑needed volunteer role. Shifts may be offered during the day, overnight, or on short notice, depending on patient need and your availability.

Training & Support

Autumn Hospice provides comprehensive training on the dying process, anticipatory grief, and the role of the vigil volunteer, along with ongoing support from our interdisciplinary care team.

Why Volunteer

Your presence can make a profound difference—offering comfort, dignity, and reassurance when it matters most. Contact us today to learn more and begin the application process.