Training for Volunteers

"Caring for People is a VNA Tradition"

Job descriptions, program information, and training are provided to all individuals and groups who volunteer for VNA. In addition, all volunteers complete paperwork for personal reference and criminal background checks. A brief synopsis of the trainings provided for VNA’s three major volunteer programs is as follows:

Eldercare holds volunteer training every month by appointment at the VNA office in Dallas County. Training sessions last approximately one and a half hours. The training session gives volunteers an overview of the program and an outline of volunteer responsibilities.

Hospice offers comprehensive volunteer training courses at least twice a year in Collin, Dallas, Denton, Kaufman and Tarrant Counties. Generally, the classes are scheduled either on weekends or during weekdays. However, if there is enough interest, the volunteer coordinator will schedule training in the evening. Throughout the 18-hour course, VNA Hospice staff provides information on the physical, social, psychological, and spiritual needs of terminally ill patients and their families. Upon completion of the basic training, volunteers have opportunities to provide service for adult hospice patients and their families and provide administrative support functions in the office. Additional training and service opportunities are available to those interested in caring for children receiving hospice service, facilitating grief support groups for children, and providing bereavement support.

Meals on Wheels holds volunteer training at the VNA office in Dallas County every Monday from 12:30 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. A video is shown, Meals on Wheels guidelines are discussed, and paperwork for references and criminal background checks is completed. Individuals cannot begin volunteer service until criminal background checks have cleared and positive reference checks have been received.