Veteran Ambassador for Hospice Patients

We are looking for several individuals who want to help celebrate and acknowledge Veterans who are now at the end of their lives, Heartland Heroes.

The volunteer Veteran Ambassador would be welcoming new Veteran hospice patients and acknowledge their service for the country. This may involve bringing them a patriotic craft item, saying the pledge of allegiance, singing the national anthem, doing a reading, and/or pinning them with a Heartland Veteran pin.

Some patients may want to feel comradery with another soldier. Some patients are very open about their military experience, while others haven’t spoken about their service with anyone else. The Veteran Ambassador might also engage the patient in small talk or reminisce regarding their service including what conflict they served in, the branch they were in, their training, and their memories of service.

Qualities: Veteran, self-driven, able to work independently, and a sense of urgency. Time commitment would be approximately two hours a month or more if desired.

Interested applicants must be at least 18-years-old, fill out initial application paperwork, agree to a background and reference check, attend a volunteer orientation and complete two TB tests.

Patients may be in their own homes, independent living apartments, assisted living, or skilled nursing facilities. Flexible schedule and travel is whatever distance you wish. Must have reliable transportation.

Benefits:

• Independent volunteering, but having support and advice available
• Flexible schedule and the ability to set your own schedule
• Helping the less fortunate and lonely
• Providing companionship and being social
• Build relationships and knowing that you make a difference in someone’s day.
• Hearing other peoples stories and being part of their story
• Helping other people and giving back to individuals, families, and the community
• Learn more and gain experience with hospice, aging, the elderly, chronic diseases, and the end of life
• Practice skills, explore strengths, and grow
• Have new experiences and gaining a new perspective on life