Avow seeks volunteers as nonprofit hospice expands into Lee, Hendry and Glades Counties
Avow, Southwest Florida's original nonprofit hospice, is calling on residents of Lee, Hendry and Glades counties to join its volunteer corps as the organization expands its service area beyond Collier County. The nonprofit will host volunteer enrollment events this month in Fort Myers and Cape Coral, followed by two Veteran Volunteer Bootcamps in September.
Volunteers support Avow's patients and families in a range of ways, from spending time at the bedside and offering respite to caregivers to helping behind the scenes or sharing a special talent. Roles are available for those who can give a few hours a week as well as those with a lifetime of professional or personal experience to offer.
"As we grow into Lee, Hendry and Glades counties, we are looking for neighbors who want to make a difference close to home," said Jennifer Anger, volunteer coordinator for Avow. "There is no single type of volunteer. What our patients and families need most is someone willing to show up, listen and be present."
Volunteer Enrollment Events
Avow will host two volunteer enrollment events, both from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.:
Wednesday, Aug. 19 – The Collaboratory, 2031 Jackson St., Fort Myers
Thursday, Aug. 20 – Cape Coral Library, 921 SW 39th Terrace, Cape Coral
Attendees will meet Avow's Volunteer Services team, learn about the organization's programs and services, explore opportunities that match their interests and schedules, and complete a volunteer application on site. Staff will also walk prospective volunteers through next steps, including fingerprinting, TB testing, orientation and training.
Veteran Volunteer Bootcamps
Avow, a five-star We Honor Veterans partner, will also host two Veteran Volunteer Bootcamps for those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. Both sessions run from 9 a.m. to noon:
Thursday, Sept. 24 – The Collaboratory, 2031 Jackson St., Fort Myers
Tuesday, Sept. 29 – Avow, 1095 Whippoorwill Lane, Naples
Participants will learn how to conduct Veteran honor ceremonies, lead Coffee with Vets gatherings and provide companionship visits to Veteran hospice patients. Avow's Veterans' services also include connecting Veteran patients with staff and volunteers who have served, recognizing patients with a pin, certificate and appreciation blanket, and helping families access local benefits and resources.
"Every Veteran deserves the chance to hear 'thank you' one more time," said Jaysen Roa, president and CEO of Avow. "When a Veteran volunteer sits down with a Veteran patient, there is an understanding between them that the rest of us cannot replicate. That connection is why this program matters."
Prospective volunteers can register for an enrollment event or learn more about available roles by contacting Avow Volunteer Coordinator Jennifer Anger at 239-484-9648 or Jennifer.Anger@avowcares.org, or by visiting AvowCares.org/volunteer. Veterans interested in the bootcamps can apply at bit.ly/veteran-volunteers or contact Volunteer Services at 239-430-3490 or volunteerservices@avowcares.org.
About Avow
Avow was founded in 1983 as Southwest Florida's original, nonprofit hospice. Today, Avow's nonprofit companies provide palliative care for individuals facing chronic or serious illness, hospice care, bereavement support services for children and adults, and Medicare-certified home health care. To learn more about the scope of services provided by Avow, call 239-261-4404 or visit www.avowcares.org.