Outreach Program Descriptions

Being Mortal


“Hope is not a plan.”  ~ Dr Atul Gawande

A free screening and discussion of the PBS FRONTLINE film Being Mortal.  Based on the best-selling book by Atul Gawande, MD, this documentary explores the hopes of patients and families facing terminal illness and their relationships with the physicans who treat them.

See the film and part of a national conversation that brings medical professionals and community members together around the shared responsibility of discussing what matters most to patients and families facing treatment decisions and how to have these conversations ahead of a medical crisis.

“Arriving at an acceptance of one’s mortality is a process, not an epiphany.” ~ Dr. Atul Gawande

Hospice Myths Debunked: Hospice Offers More Than You Think

Hospice Volunteers of Hancock County offers a free informational session surrounding the common myths about hospice care, while also sharing information about how hospice services go far beyond what many people realize. Hospice Volunteer services available to individuals and families will be explained with the goal of serving patients and their families earlier in their journeys.

Additionally, we will provide information about other services Hospice Volunteers of Hancock County provides such as assistance with Advance Care Directives and bereavement support for families before and after their loved ones have died. We encourage you to attend this informational session that will extend beyond the myths and confusion surrounding this topic.

Planning to Live to 100? Volunteer for Hospice Volunteers of Hancock County!

The end of life is a topic that can sound depressing and scary. But our volunteers report that working with those who are dying and those who are left behind is some of the most life-giving and rewarding work they have ever done. And guess what? “Research shows volunteering delays the effects of aging and extends years of healthy life. Those who volunteer have less depression, along with a greater sense of control over one’s life and higher rates of self-esteem and happiness.”  (Eric Schneidewind, President and National Volunteer Spokesperson, AARP)

This informational session  is designed so to learn more about becoming a volunteer for Hospice Volunteers of Hancock County. You will learn how our volunteers are able to provide bereavement support as well as patient care companionship and respite support for those in their end of life journeys. You will learn about the training involved, the flexibility offered, the community our volunteers find in volunteering, and how Hospice Volunteers of Hancock County differs from the medical hospice organizations with whom we work closely.