Volunteer Portal
Volunteer Rounds
We’re excited to bring back Volunteer Rounds and hope to see most of you there! The purpose of Volunteer Rounds is to provide a safe and welcoming space for our volunteers to ask questions regarding their role(s), discuss the ongoing challenges of volunteering, to share information/resources, and identify needs in the community. Note: Registration is required. Please use the buttons below to register.
Additional 2026 Dates:
JUNE
Date: Thur., June 4th
Time: 12 – 1 pm
Location: Zoom
SEPTEMBER
Date: Thurs., Sept. 17th
Time: 12 – 1 pm
Location: Zoom
DECEMBER
Date: Thurs., Dec. 3rd
Time: 12 – 1 pm
Location: Zoom
Monthly Volunteer Hours
Please submit the number of volunteer hours you worked by the 3rd of each month. Please submit your hours using the ‘Log Hours’ button below.
Monthly Volunteer Education
At Hospice Orillia, providing our volunteers with meaningful learning opportunities is something we pride ourselves on. In order to ensure all volunteers have access to meaningful education opportunities, we will feature a new topic at the beginning of each month. These will range from articles to podcasts to virtual TED Talks to opportunities within the community. We hope you will find the chosen topics to be enlightening! If you want to learn about anything specifically, please email Ashley at ashley@hospiceorillia.ca or call her at 705-325-0505 x 218.
2026
Supporting Someone with Heart Disease
Given that heart disease is a leading cause of death, there may be a point in your time volunteering with Hospice Orillia that you will support someone affected by heart disease. Although you do not need to know the diagnosis of an individual, it is helpful to be aware of how you can best support them. Please visit the links below for more information.
Living Wish Foundation
The Living Wish Foundation is a non-profit organization that grants individuals with life-threatening illness (a prognosis of 1 year or less) the opportunity to fulfill their final wishes. Established in 1984, the foundation has helped thousands of individuals across the South Georgian Bay area create lasting memories and experiences. The organization’s mission is to provide comfort, joy, and a sense of normalcy to those facing the end of their lives. Through the generous support of donors and volunteers, the Living Wish Foundation is able to coordinate and facilitate these special experiences, bringing moments of happiness and peace to those in need.
“End-of-life wishes aren’t overly complicated. They are often examples of things we see every day in this line of work: a request for a specific flavour of ice cream, to have a loved one flown in for a visit from out of country, to be able to go home one last time to see their garden, to have a visit from a beloved pet, to safely spend one last night at the cottage, to celebrate the anniversary/birthday/Christmas a few weeks early…Sometimes all it takes is permission to ask and the right group of motivated people to make it happen.”
Note: As of May 1st, 2025, the Living Wish program became part of Hospice Georgian Triangle’s Community Care Services.
Click below to read more. If you browse their website, you may spot a member of our NSMHPCN team: Nancy Good-Kennedy as their Co-Founder and Director!
2025
During the holiday season, Hospice Orillia is here to provide support to our clients and their families. We understand that this time of year can be especially challenging, and we are committed to ensuring that everyone accessing our services feels valued and cared for. With help from each of you, our wonderful volunteers, we are able to extend a warm hand, offering compassion and understanding through the holidays. We are there to provide comfort and assistance to those who need it!
Click below to read some tips and watch a helpful video.
We Remember
On Remembrance Day, it’s natural to feel a sense of grief as we honour and remember those who have sacrificed their lives for our freedom. It’s okay to take time to mourn and reflect on the sacrifices made by our servicemen and women. It’s important to remember that grieving is natural. Let’s take this day to honour their memory and express our gratitude for their bravery and selflessness.
“Remembrance is one of the ways we make a difference in a Veteran’s life. There are other ways too.”
Click below to read more.
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Perinatal Loss Awareness Month Perinatal refers to the period of time immediately before and after birth, typically covering the late stages of pregnancy to the first few weeks after delivery. This period is crucial for the health and well-being of both the mother and the newborn. Perinatal care focuses on ensuring a safe and healthy pregnancy, delivery, and postpartum period for the mother, as well as providing essential care and support for the newborn during the early stages of life. It involves a range of medical, emotional, and practical support to promote the best possible outcomes for both mother and baby. The month of October is Perinatal Loss Awareness Month. Take some time to read personal stories and learn about the different ways to support those who are going through the perinatal stage. |
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Pregnancy and Infant Loss E-Learning Communication Module “We know that health and service professionals wish to provide skilled and compassionate care to families around the time of their loss, including kind and sensitive communication, but that not everyone receives training or feedback on this topic. Professionals and bereaved families have created the following e-learning module to assist those who want to learn more about skilled communication with families, including what to say, what not to say, and how to incorporate compassionate non-verbal communication into their interactions with families. The module is self-paced, and includes practical tips for varied clinical settings, practice questions, and space for reflection. Most professionals will be able to work through the module in 30-60 minutes. If desired, there is a certificate of completion for download at the end.” We encourage you to view the educational presentation titled “Communication: A learning module for health and service professionals about skilled and compassionate communication when a family experiences a pregnancy loss or infant death.” Presented by Pregnancy and Infant Loss (PAIL) Network to learn more about supporting those affected by perinatal loss. Click the button below for the course, which can be navigated through at your own pace. |
Cicely Saunders’ Influence on Hospice Palliative Care
Cicely Saunders was a British nurse, social worker, physician, and writer who pioneered palliative care and is considered by many as the founder of the modern hospice movement. She is best known for her work in establishing the first modern hospice, St. Christopher’s Hospice, in London, England in 1967. Saunders’ forward-looking approach to end-of-life care emphasized the importance of addressing the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of terminally ill patients. Her work transformed the way terminally ill individuals are cared for, and her legacy continues to influence hospice care around the world.
We invite you to visit the King’s College London website to learn more about the remarkable Dame Cicely Saunders. Simply click the button below to explore her story.
What is Pain Management at End-of-Life
Pain management at the end of life focuses on ensuring comfort and minimizing suffering for individuals with terminal illnesses or conditions. This may include medication, physical therapy, and psychological support. The goal is to alleviate physical and emotional distress, allowing patients to maintain their quality of life and dignity during their final days. Careful assessment and ongoing communication between healthcare providers, patients, and their families are essential for pain management for each individual’s unique needs and preferences.
June Callwood
June Callwood was a well-known Canadian journalist, author, and social activist who played a significant role in advancing hospice palliative care in Canada. She was a co-founder of Casey House, the first hospice for people with HIV/AIDS in Canada, and she also played a key role in establishing Emily’s House, a children’s hospice in Toronto. June was instrumental in promoting and advocating for Hospice Palliative Care in Canada. She founded the “Dignity Project” in 1982, which aimed to improve the quality of life for terminally ill patients and their families. Callwood’s advocacy work helped to increase awareness and support for hospice palliative care across the country. She fought for compassionate end-of-life care for patients all over, and her efforts have had a lasting impact on the hospice palliative care movement in Canada.If you would like to know more about June Callwood and her amazing movement in the Hospice Palliative Care world, please read this article!
National Indigenous History Month
National Indigenous History Month, also know as Indigenous Heritage Month is observed every June in Canada to honour the history, heritage, and diversity of Indigenous peoples. It is a time to recognize the important contributions and unique cultural identities of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples. Throughout the month, there are various events, activities, and educational initiatives that aim to promote awareness and understanding of Indigenous history. This observance provides an opportunity for all Canadians to learn about the rich and complex histories of Indigenous peoples, and to celebrate their resilience and achievements.
Hospice Palliative Care Week
Hospice palliative care is a specialized type of medical care for people with life-limiting illnesses. It focuses on providing relief from the symptoms and stress of the illness, rather than trying to cure the disease. The goal is to improve quality of life for both the patient and their family. Hospice palliative care can be provided in a variety of settings, including hospitals, hospices, long-term care facilities, and at home. It often includes a team of healthcare professionals, such as doctors, nurses, social workers, it can also include volunteers, caretakers, etc., who work together to provide comprehensive support. This year, Hospice Palliative Care Week takes place from May 4-10!
Advance Care Planning
Advance Care Planning (ACP) is a process that allows individuals to make decisions about their future medical care in the event that they are unable to communicate their wishes. It involves discussing and documenting preferences for treatments, such as resuscitation, ventilation, and other life-sustaining measures. ACP can also include appointing a healthcare proxy to make decisions on their behalf; this is also know as a Substitute Decision Maker. It is important for individuals to have these conversations with their loved ones and healthcare providers to ensure that their wishes are known and respected. This month, we want to share with you what Advance Care Planning is, and how naming a substitute decision maker is so important!
Death Care
Death care, also known as end-of-life care, includes a range of services and support for individuals and their loved ones as they near the end of life. This can include hospice care, palliative care, funeral planning, grief counseling, and legal and financial planning. It is designed to provide comfort, guidance, and assistance during a challenging and emotional time. Death care professionals, such as hospice staff, social workers, and funeral directors, play a crucial role in providing compassionate and comprehensive support to those facing the end of life. Please look at the link provided to learn more about what death care could involve!
Volunteer Well-being
As a hospice volunteer, it’s important to prioritize your well-being to care for others. Setting boundaries to avoid overcommitting yourself allowing for time to rest and recharge, and practicing self-care through activities such as exercise, meditation, and spending time with loved ones, are some ways to maintain a healthy well-being. If you are ever struggling, make sure to communicate openly with Hospice Orillia about your needs and limitations, and ask for support from your direct supervisor if needed. Remember, to continue making a positive impact, maintaining your well-being is crucial.
Caregiver Well-being
Being a caregiver can be physically and emotionally demanding, leading to stress, fatigue, and burnout. Caregivers must prioritize their health and well-being to care for others. This includes taking regular breaks, receiving support from friends and family, and engaging in self-care activities such as exercise, meditation, and maintaining a healthy diet. Caregivers should also look out for signs of burnout and seek help if needed. By prioritizing their well-being, caregivers can ensure they can continue providing care to those in need.
2024
Autism & Grief
Grieving is a universal experience and affects people of all abilities in a variety of ways. Individuals on the autism spectrum may not display grief in ways a neurotypical person would. For more information, please visit the link below.
Pain and Dementia
Pain can have a significant impact on people with dementia. People with dementia may have difficulty communicating their pain due to cognitive impairment, leading to underreporting and inadequate treatment. Behavioural changes, such as agitation or aggression, may be the only indication of pain. Additionally, pain can worsen existing behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia, making the condition more challenging to manage. It can also lead to further decline in cognitive function and overall quality of life. This month, we will be looking at how pain affects people with dementia!
Perinatal Awareness Month
Perinatal refers to the period before and after childbirth, typically spanning the weeks before and after the baby’s birth. Perinatal care involves monitoring the health and well-being of the mother and baby during pregnancy, labour, and delivery, as well as in the immediate postpartum period. This month is Perinatal Awareness Month, as well as Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Day on October 15th. This month, we will be spreading awareness to Perinatal….
MAID
During Hospice Orillia’s annual volunteer check-ins, we asked what you would like to learn more about. We received quite a few questions about Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID). This medical procedure allows eligible patients to request and receive assistance to end their lives peacefully and painlessly. This option is available to individuals who are suffering from a medical condition that causes enduring and intolerable suffering. To qualify for MAID, patients must meet specific criteria and undergo a thorough assessment by healthcare professionals. For more information on MAID, please see the links below!
A Palliative Approach to Care
A palliative approach to care is a crucial aspect of managing life-limiting illnesses, aiming to provide relief from the symptoms and stress that come with the condition. This approach focuses on improving the overall quality of life for patients, as well as providing support to their families. It involves an interdisciplinary team of healthcare professionals working together to address the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of the patients. Palliative care can be provided alongside primary treatment and can be offered at any stage of an illness, not just at the end of life. It is important to know that palliative care is not the same as hospice care, as it can be provided at any point during an illness, not just in the final stages.
As you know, everyone grieves differently, processes differently, and feels differently. You will never know how you will grieve, process, and feel until you have lost a loved one, and there is never “getting over” the grief you feel. This link will teach you about anticipatory grief, understanding grief, and self-care!
While many people have not had the chance to be present during the final stages of a loved one’s dying journey, it is something that many consider to be an honour. HPCO and NSMHPCN have a variety of resources to help prepare for this. Please take a look at the links below:
Annual Refreshers and Declarations
We ask our volunteers to complete annual refreshers on confidentiality and safety, along with the annual declarations, to ensure they are up-to-date with the latest policies, guidelines, and best practices. These refreshers help maintain a safe, secure environment for everyone involved, reinforcing our commitment to confidentiality and safeguarding. Additionally, keeping these declarations current is essential to uphold our accreditation standards, which are critical to providing the best possible experience for those we serve. By regularly reviewing and confirming these key aspects, we ensure that both our volunteers and the individuals we support are protected, while also ensuring our operations continue to meet or exceed industry standards.
Please review each of the refresher videos along with the Confidentiality Policy, Safety in the Orillia Common Roof Policy and the Safe Home Visiting Policy. Upon completion please complete the Annual Declaration form located below.
Each section may be expanded by clicking on the title.
Please note: The video you are about to watch refers to the State of Colorado. You can stop the video at 1 minute 41 seconds, where it begins discussing Colorado-specific rules.
Additionally, while the video mentions the “Duty to Report,” please note that in this context, your duty is to report only to your supervisor*. If you have any questions about the video’s content, reach out to your supervisor for clarification.
*If you are an active member of a governing body with specific reporting requirements, follow the guidelines of that body as well, but always report to your supervisor.
Applicable to:
- All Volunteers
Policy:
Volunteers of Hospice Orillia are responsible for protecting the security of all information that is obtained, heard or seen in the course of their work. All printed material and all information divulged verbally or in writing by Hospice staff concerning hospice clients, volunteers or donors is strictly confidential. This includes information relating to an individual’s medical history, disease or treatment, financial situation, home life or family situation, as well as their identity and address. Breaches of confidentiality are to be reported to their direct supervisor who will address as needed.
Note: The term “client” includes the individual and the individual’s caregivers, family and friends.
Procedure:
Onboarding
Volunteers must sign a Statement of Compliance with Confidentiality, Privacy and Security Requirements, which acknowledges agreement to confidentiality of hospice information, prior to being matched with a client. This document is placed in the volunteer record and is updated annually.
Volunteers receive specific training on the Personal Health Information Protection Act (PHIPA) through an online module, or through in-person training.
Client Matches
All client information is provided to volunteers by their direct supervisor. When a new match is made, the direct supervisor phones the volunteer to provide client details including their name, address, and information about their health condition (when applicable).
Subsequent communication about a client is done by telephone or email. When communicating about a client through email or any other written form of communication, volunteers and staff must refrain from using identifying information, such as the clients name or address. In such cases, the first initial of the client’s first name may be used. The volunteer is responsible for the proper disposal of any written client information by returning information to the Hospice Orillia office to be shredded.
Volunteers will not discuss their client with any Hospice Orillia staff other than their direct supervisor, with the exception of holiday coverage and emergency situations, and will not share information with any volunteers who are not also involved with their client. Should a discussion and/or debrief take place concerning a client, the direct supervisor and volunteer will ensure it takes place in a private space.
Breach of Confidentiality
If a volunteer becomes aware of a breach of confidentiality, they must report it immediately to their direct supervisor. They must explain the nature of the breach, their involvement in the breach, and any other relevant information. The supervisor will then consult with the Privacy Officer to determine the course of action required. The details of the breach and its outcome will be documented in the volunteer and client files.
Social Media & Photography
Volunteers are not permitted to use social media or photography as a part of their volunteer role.
Volunteers must not take photos of clients or post any information about a client on social media under any circumstance.
Volunteers may choose to share social media posts made by Hospice Orillia, if desired.
Volunteers are not to befriend any current or former client on any social media platform.
Applicable to:
- All Hospice Orillia Volunteers
Policy
Hospice Orillia acknowledges the additional risk of Volunteers going into an unknown environment. The safety of all personnel is a high priority for Hospice Orillia. Responsibility for personal safety is everyone’s business. It is expected that volunteers exercise reasonable caution and good judgment to minimize the potential for injury to themselves and others.
Volunteers who are providing in-home volunteer services have to ensure their own safety and are encouraged to maintain a safe arrival contact with a family member, friend, or co-worker. Prior to a home visit, staff will complete a risk assessment and document the results in the clients file. Volunteers will never be asked to go into a high-risk situation.
Procedure
Volunteers have the right to leave a home visit immediately if they feel that their safety is at risk and/or to call 911 for assistance. Volunteers have the right to ask the client/caregiver to:
- Refrain from smoking during the home visit
- Remove pets from the room during visit
Risk Assessment
The Registered Social Worker assesses clients and their environments for risk at the time of initial assessment. The risks identified are noted in the client file and expressed to the volunteer before the match is made. The safety assessment includes chemical/biological/environmental hazards, personal safety hazards, fall hazards, infestations, and emergency response hazards. Volunteers are encouraged to reassess every client for risk on an ongoing basis. All identified risks must be communicated to your supervisor immediately and will be documented in our client management software.
Safe Home Visiting Tips
Stay in touch
- Ensure communication with direct supervisor or Volunteer Coordinator on a regular basis.
- Know where you are going.
- Once you receive the address to a client’s home, it is encouraged that you know the surroundings prior to meeting with the client.
- Know your exits.
- Hospice Orillia encourages that the in-home visiting volunteer evaluates the exits at the first visit, and sit closest to the exit for personal safety.
- Listen to your gut.
- If you feel uncomfortable, you have the right to leave.
Keep to your time
- Based on the agreed time and schedule with your client, make sure you are keeping track of the time you are visiting with a client.
After Hours Support for Volunteers
Be aware and knowledgeable of Appendix D: After Hours Support for Volunteers.
Applicable to:
- All Volunteers
Policy:
Hospice Orillia strives to keep their volunteers safe at all times which includes their presence within the Orillia Common Roof (OCR) building. The OCR is a common ground for volunteers and clients; this is a safe place for groups, 1:1 and check in’s, but there are unpredictable emergencies that can occur such as fire, shelter in place or weather. In the event that there is ever an emergency while you are in the OCR, here is an emergency plan:
Procedure:
No matter the reason for being in the OCR while volunteering for Hospice Orillia, please inform the Volunteer Coordinator that you are in the building in case of emergency. While meeting with clients, it is always best practice to sit closest to the exit of the room, in case of risk or emergency.
Fire
WHEN THE FIRE ALARMS SOUND EVERYONE MUST EXIT THE BUILDING.
Evacuation is most commonly a precaution taken in the event of a fire, but may also be employed for other building-related emergencies.
Attached is the blueprint to the OCR, please review and know where the exit routes are. If you are unsure of the exit routes after reviewing, please contact the Program Assistant at 705-325-0505 ext. 208 and they will show you the exit routes in the building. If you are in a meeting room in the building and are unsure of where to go, there is a blueprint of the building in every room showing where you are located, and where the nearest emergency exit is.
- Keep to the right in all hallways, stairways, and corridors. This allows emergency personnel to travel in the opposite
- Do not touch power lines, electrical wiring, or objects that are in contact with power lines or electrical
- Once evacuated, remain in the designated gathering area.
Evacuation Plan – Hospice Orillia Office
- There are 2 exit doors in the Hospice Orillia office – 1 leads directly to the outside fenced in area and the other than leads to the hallway – it will be at your discretion at the time of evacuation to determine which is the most appropriate and safest exit
Evacuation Route
Determine in advance the nearest emergency exit to your workstation and the route you will follow to reach that exit in the event of an emergency, prior to entering a workspace. Also, identify an alternate route to be used in the event that your primary route is blocked or unsafe to use.
Gathering Areas
As part of the Fire Plan for the common roof, a safe gathering area has been identified by building management and is towards the back of the parking lot near the large garbage bins. Please ensure you have read the Fire Plan (Appendix F) and are aware of your responsibilities as a volunteer working out of the common roof building – The Fire Marshall for the building is the OCR Receptionist on duty.
If you are present when a fire occurs, remember the three C’s:
- CALL – Call the Fire Department at 911. Activate the fire alarm. Call building management to inform them of the
- CLEAR – Clear the area of all persons in the immediate area of danger. Move as far away from the fire as
- CONFINE – Confine the fire if possible by closing doors to contain the spread of the fire. Close all doors as you go. Every closed door between you and the fire provides a barrier against smoke. Do not break or open windows. A broken/open window will provide oxygen to the fire, which in turn will spread the intensity of the
If you hear the fire alarm:
- Immediately follow the designated evacuation route to the designated gathering area for the building.
- If you are unable to get out for any reason, seal the door if possible to prevent smoke from seeping through the crack, stay near a window and close to the floor. If possible, signal for
After a Fire
- After the Fire Department has investigated the alarm and given the “ALL CLEAR”, the building management personnel will ensure that the alarm panel and elevators have been reset and will instruct everyone when it is safe to re-enter the building
Shelter in Place
From time to time, there may be situations when it is simply best to stay where you are and avoid any uncertainty outside of the building. These situations may include tornado, contaminants in the air and potentially violent situations. Plan where you will take shelter in this kind of emergency. Choose an interior room or one with as few windows or doors as possible.
Types of Emergencies
Storm Emergency and Tornado:
The weather service issues severe weather watches and warnings.
- A WATCH means that the potential exists for the development of severe thunderstorms or tornadoes, depending upon the specific type of watch issued. While no immediate action is required for the issuance of a watch, it is recommended that a point person from your staff team keep up to date on the current weather situation and be prepared to seek shelter if necessary.
- A WARNING, on the other hand, requires more immediate action and should be taken seriously. A severe thunderstorm warning indicates that severe weather is imminent in your area or is already occurring. The term severe refers to hail greater than or equal to 2cm in diameter and/or wind gusts that meet or exceed 90 km/h. A tornado warning can be thought of as a very specific severe thunderstorm warning, and means that a tornado has been either spotted by a human observer or indicated by weather radar. Similar to a severe thunderstorm warning, once a tornado warning is issued for your area, you should take cover immediately.
In the case of a tornado warning, Hospice Orillia recommends that all volunteers, clients, and guests make their way to the interior hallways of the building. Avoid windows and doorways.
Power Outages/Blackouts:
It is possible that your space or building will experience a partial or total power outage. If you experience a loss of power, please contact someone from the Hospice Orillia staff team who are responsible for advising building management.