By CONNIE GIBBS
For SS Hospice Society
Over the past few years, the Salt Spring Hospice Society has worked hard to enhance the services we provide to our community.
With one in three residents on the island being seniors, the need for hospice volunteers — and the invaluable services they provide — is greater than ever. Whether through lending a listening ear to someone’s life story, offering quiet comfort at a bedside, or walking alongside someone through their grief, hospice volunteers make an immeasurable impact. We believe their kindness, empathy and care make a lasting difference in the lives of many families on Salt Spring.
This past December, we welcomed 14 new compassionate volunteers to our organization, each one bringing their unique gifts to the table. With their energy and talents, we are expanding the scope of our services in support of those facing end of life and their loved ones. Our current services include providing companionship and daily enrichment to patients at Lady Minto who do not have families close by, community education on Advanced Care Planning, visits to those living with terminal or life-limiting illness at home, and grief support services in the form of one-to-one and group support. Our volunteers also provide invaluable respite to families by sitting vigil with those nearing the end of their journey.
Our volunteers are not only dedicated, they are highly trained. This past fall, they completed over 40 hours of intensive training, covering topics such as dementia, grief support, communication skills and the delicate ethics of end-of-life care. Each volunteer undergoes a thoughtful, personalized interview process to ensure they are well-suited for this deeply sensitive work. We are proud to hold our volunteers to the highest standards, knowing they accompany people and their families during life’s most vulnerable moments.
Volunteering with Salt Spring Hospice isn’t just about providing support to others; it’s a deeply meaningful experience that brings its own sense of fulfillment and connection. For those who choose to volunteer, it’s a chance to be present in a way that few other opportunities allow—offering comfort, empathy, and understanding when it’s needed most. It’s a privilege to help guide someone through their final days or to support someone on their grief journey.
To learn more about the Salt Spring Hospice Society and our services please visit saltspringhospice.org.
Important Upcoming Dates
Advanced Care Planning Workshop:
• March 8, 22, April 5, 26, May 3, 10, from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Seniors Centre.
Salt Spring Hospice Society AGM:
• April 16 at 6:30 p.m. at the Seniors Centre.
Fall Volunteer Training Info Session:
• May 17 from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Salt Spring Public Library.