Franklin VNA & Hospice will offer free training for Hospice volunteers beginning March 15. Rev. Tobias Nyatsambo, Hospice Volunteer Coordinator for the VNA, says “Hospice volunteers are adult men and women of all ages and backgrounds who have a desire to help their friends and neighbors and to serve the community. They are key members of the Hospice team that help our clients and their families deal with illness, grief and loss.” The class will take place on 6 consecutive Wednesday evenings from 5 to 8 PM, starting on March 15 and concluding on April 19. Classes will be held at the Franklin VNA & Hospice office at 75 Chestnut Street, Franklin.

Rev. Nyatsambo further explains, “Franklin VNA’s Hospice Program is well established and is growing steadily. Hospice volunteers are needed to provide patient and family support, fundraising and administrative support and help for special events. Volunteers in Hospice find it personally gratifying and emotionally meaningful to assist those in need at a critical point in their lives. At the VNA, we like to say ‘Hospice volunteers can change lives – maybe even their own’.”

To ensure that all volunteers are equipped for the challenge of working with their patients, the VNA requires that volunteers complete an extensive training and also submit to a routine background check. “It’s important that volunteers understand the history of Hospice and are aware of specific ways Hospice works to serve the community” said Nyatsambo.

Pre-registration is required. For more information or to register for Hospice volunteer classes, contact Nancy at 934-3454.