LAKEPORT, Calif. – As part of its ongoing efforts to provide quality care and services to the community, Hospice Services of Lake County is offering free volunteer training for adults who want to make a difference.

“The non-medical training sessions provide new volunteers with knowledge and skills for visiting patients in hospice care and for offering bereavement support to the patient’s loved ones and family members,” said Hospice Services Volunteer Coordinator Terry Phelps.

Participants are required to complete a 14-hour training program.

Sessions will be offered from 2 to 4 p.m. on four consecutive Tuesdays starting Feb. 26.

Make up sessions may be arranged. Trainings will take place at the Hospice Services of Lake County offices at 1862 Parallel Drive in Lakeport.

Training is provided by guest speakers who are experts in their respective fields. The volunteers-in-training will learn skill sets and practical information to become successful hospice volunteers.

Patient support volunteers give non-medical support, companionship and practical help to hospice patients and offer respite to the caregivers.

Bereavement volunteers provide support to loved ones and grieving family members at camps and support groups.

All training materials will be provided free of charge. Participants must be age 18 or older.

To reserve space and obtain information, contact Terry Phelps at 707-263-6270, Extension 136, or send an email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Visit the organization’s Web site at www.lakecountyhospice.org.

Janine Smith-Citron is development director for Hospice Services of Lake County.