VITAS mission is to preserve the quality of life for those who have a limited time to live. If you are under age 18, you usually begin volunteering by visiting elderly patients in nursing homes, either on your own or as parent-child or family volunteer team. Mature, responsible high school students who understand hospice can fulfill school volunteer requirements at VITAS. Hospice volunteers are trained to meet the needs of patients and families. They visit on a schedule, yet are open to change as dictated by the patient’s health and interests. They are unpaid, yet priceless. Because hospice patients have unique end-of-life needs, VITAS seeks volunteers from all backgrounds, experiences and cultures. Were particularly interested in volunteers who understand the hospice philosophy and who embrace the importance of quality of life at the end of life. For more information about available volunteer opportunities, please visit our website.