For many people, the idea of hospice volunteering can feel intimidating. But according to Jodi Vanlerberghe, Volunteer Program Manager with Hospice of Michigan, the reality is often much simpler — and more meaningful — than people expect.
“At the end of life, patients need human connection,” Vanlerberghe said. “And that’s exactly what our volunteers provide.”
Hospice of Michigan is currently seeking volunteers in Muskegon, Whitehall, and surrounding communities to offer companionship and support to patients facing serious illness. The need is growing, and even a small amount of time can make a profound difference.
What Hospice Volunteering Really Looks Like
For someone new to hospice volunteering, a typical visit may be quieter than imagined.
“Most hospice volunteers are surprised by how simple and human the experience really is,” Vanlerberghe explained. “It might look like sitting with someone and listening to their stories, holding a hand, reading aloud, watching a favorite TV show, or just being a calm presence in the room.”
Volunteers are never expected to provide medical care, and they are not sent in unprepared. Hospice of Michigan offers training, guidance, and careful matching so volunteers feel comfortable and supported from the start.
“Many volunteers say they leave visits feeling grounded, grateful, and more connected to life than when they arrived,” Vanlerberghe said.
Small Moments, Lasting Impact
The impact of hospice volunteers is often found in quiet, everyday moments.
“A volunteer may be the one person who has time to sit and really listen,” Vanlerberghe said. “That alone can ease loneliness, fear, and anxiety.”
Patients often share memories, humor, regrets, or pride in their lives, and simply being heard can bring great comfort. For families and caregivers, volunteers provide reassurance — knowing someone is there so they can run an errand, rest, or take a short break.
“Volunteers frequently hear families say, ‘We don’t know what we’d do without you,’” she added.
A Growing Need in White Lake Area Communities
There is a consistent need for hospice volunteers in Muskegon, Whitehall, and nearby communities, particularly for companionship visits and caregiver respite.
“Many patients live alone or have limited family support,” Vanlerberghe said. “Even one hour a week can make a meaningful difference for someone nearing the end of life.”
Each community looks a little different, but the need for human connection remains universal.
Addressing Common Misconceptions
One of the biggest barriers to volunteering is fear — fear of saying the wrong thing, being around death, or feeling emotionally overwhelmed.
“One of the most common misconceptions is that hospice volunteering requires medical skills or that it’s emotionally overwhelming,” Vanlerberghe said. “That’s not the case.”
Volunteers are not expected to have all the answers. Their role is simply to be present with kindness and respect.
“Many volunteers discover that patients don’t need perfect words,” she said. “They just want companionship.”
Who Makes a Great Hospice Volunteer?
There is no single background or personality type required to volunteer.
“The best hospice volunteers aren’t defined by their background — they’re defined by their heart,” Vanlerberghe said.
Good listeners, patient and dependable individuals, and those comfortable with quiet moments tend to thrive. Compassion and empathy matter far more than technical skills.
“If someone can offer presence, kindness, and respect, they already have what it takes,” she added.
Giving — and Receiving — More Than Expected
Many hospice volunteers say they didn’t realize how much they would receive from the experience.
“What started as ‘just an hour a week’ became a space where time slowed down,” Vanlerberghe shared. “Conversations felt real, laughter still happened, and simple presence mattered more than words.”
Others say hospice volunteering taught them how to truly listen — not only at the bedside, but in everyday life.
In the White Lake area, hospice volunteering reflects the spirit of neighbors showing up for neighbors.
“For some patients, a volunteer may be the only person who comes just to be with them,” Vanlerberghe said. “Not to check a box, but to offer kindness and dignity during a sacred time.”
How to Learn More
Hospice of Michigan offers flexible scheduling, training, and ongoing support for volunteers. Opportunities include companionship visits, caregiver respite, and quiet presence.
If you’ve ever felt a pull to slow down, give back, or offer kindness where it’s needed most, hospice volunteering may be a meaningful place to start.
“Even one hour a week — or even one hour a month — can change someone’s day,” Vanlerberghe said. “And often, it changes the volunteer just as much.”
To learn more or start a conversation about hospice volunteering, contact Jodi Vanlerberghe at 269-488-0783 or jvanlerberghe@hom.org, or visit Hospice of Michigan’s website to submit an application.
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