For Volunteers
OUR VOLUNTEERS
Our volunteers are undoubtedly the “heart and soul” of our Pathways’ programs. Whether they are buying groceries for the elderly, talking a student through their grief, leading our support groups, or helping us plan fundraisers, our amazing volunteers are the reason why Pathways continues to make such a deep impact in so many communities and so many lives. And they’re the reason why we’ll keep reaching more.
For the last three decades, Pathways has been the leader in recruiting and training volunteers in the Los Angeles county and greater Long Beach area for hospice, caregiving, and bereavement. Every volunteer receives orientation, training, and ongoing education to ensure they are fully prepared for their work.
When you volunteer with Pathways, you witness and care for the most remarkable people that ever were. It is life-changing not only for the patient but for you as well: through the training and the hands-on work, you gain skills and learn life lessons that go far, far beyond your time volunteering with us.
VOLUNTEER ROLES
There is definitely a volunteer role that fits your skills, personality, and passion:
Hospice Companion - Provides empathy, compassionate care, and support for individuals who are experiencing a life-threatening illness. Duties might include respite care, friendly visiting, and providing transportation. Time commitment is one to two visits a week for 2-4 hours each visit (depending on your availability), and times are flexible (daytime/evening/weekend). A 25-hour training program is required (classes available throughout the year).
Caregiver - Provides support and understanding for individuals who are over the age of 55. Duties might include respite care, friendly visiting, providing transportation, grocery shopping and/or errands, light housekeeping/meals, handyman and yard work. Time commitment is one to two visits a week for 2-4 hours each visit (depending on your availability) and times are flexible (daytime/evening/weekend). A 6-hour training program is required.
Bereavement - Provides support for individuals who are experiencing a loss through death. Duties may include monthly telephone calls, support group facilitation (adult and child), and one-on-one assignments. Applicants will be evaluated on previous experience, education, and training. A 6-hour training program is required.
Office - Provides light everyday office work, such as answering phones, sending mailings, and miscellaneous office jobs. Time commitment is one day a week (Monday through Friday) between the hours of 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m (flexible).
Events – Assist with signature events such as our Golf Tournament, Theatre Party, and Light Up A Life tree-lighting ceremony. Includes helping with planning on committee, invitations, and event day operations.
