About Veterans Helping Veterans

Legacy Hospice of the South is looking for Veterans or active duty military personnel in our service area to work with Veterans receiving hospice care. Our goal is to improve care for Veterans facing terminal illness by matching them with volunteers who have similar experiences and/or backgrounds. Sharing common experiences can support life review and healing when facing end of life issues.
Hospice volunteers are a crucial part of the hospice concept. Direct volunteers work in conjunction with other members of the hospice team and under the supervision of the Volunteer/Bereavement Coordinator and the hospice nurse assigned to the patient. Some things direct volunteers may be asked to do include:
--Support/entertain the patient. Examples include: Spending time, listening to the patient's stories, read the paper or books, watch a favorite TV program, etc.
--Support the family/caregiver. Examples include: allow respite time, give reassurance to the family, provide companionship to the caregiver, assist with shopping and other errands.
--Participate in group activities at nursing homes and assisted living facilities in the Starkville area. Examples include: arts & crafts, playing games with residents, reading to residents, assisting with facility functions.
--Attend monthly meetings with other volunteers

We are seeking volunteers in the following counties: Clay, Lowndes, Oktibbeha, and Winston Counties.

To volunteer, contact Polly Briggs at [email protected] or at (662) 338-0007.

Application Process

Volunteers will complete a training course according to the state regulations. Volunteers must also have a criminal background check, a personal reference check, a TB skin test, and a recent physical. Volunteers must be committed/reliable-- a volunteer's visit or companionship can often be the highlight of a patient or caregiver's week. Volunteers must be free from drug and alcohol addiction, be able to provide his/her own transportation, and be in good physical/emotional health.
**Volunteers should be willing to make a minimum commitment of service of at least 6 months.