Philip Aziz Centre’s (PAC) Hospice services are primarily delivered by trained volunteers, who are supported and supervised by our Volunteer Coordinator and Client services Manager. Volunteers are committed, compassionate, screened and trained to meet the provincially established volunteer standards of practice. They are people from all walks of life who desire to give back and make a difference in their community by helping to make someone’s journey with a serious illness more manageable and meaningful.

Volunteers provide practical, emotional and spiritual support to person living with cancer, HIV/AIDS and other life-limiting illnesses. Responsibilities may include:

• personal care: assistance with meals, daily activities, grocery shopping and errands
• accompaniment to medical and other related appointments
• companionship
• respite care for primary caregivers
• children’s support
• spiritual/bereavement support
• office administration
• fundraising and special events.

Reflections from a Volunteer

For 'P' giving up was not an option. I watched her struggle and I knew that she must be in physical pain, but she pushed on wanting to remain independent to the end. With 'P' I got to see the many faces of cancer, the denial, anger, sorrow, hope and pain. Cancer was just something that happened to her, it was not who she was. She was a unique, talented, thoughtful, loving and kind person. It was a privilege to be given the opportunity to serve and connect with her." Diane Morrison-Wyllie

Where do I volunteer?

Volunteers provide hospice care in the client’s own home and will continue the support in the hospital if admission is required. Whenever possible volunteer assignments are within a reasonable distance from their home, work or school.

Is training provided?

All volunteers are required to complete a 30 hour training course that is offered in the evenings and weekends and adheres to the Provincial Standards of the Hospice Association of Ontario. Additional training and ongoing support is offered throughout the volunteer’s hospice involvement. Interviews and references are required.

What will be my volunteer commitment?

Volunteers provide a maximum of four hours per week (1 shift) in the evening, or daytime depending on their availability and the client’s needs. Volunteers are requested to make a one year commitment to PAC.

For further information about how you can make a difference by volunteering please contact the Hospice office at 416 363-9196 Ext 224 and speak with the Volunteer Coordinator.