Volunteer Caregiver Program
Application (in PDF format)
Dates of Next VCT Training
Frequently Asked Questions

This program brings together persons with a meditation or spiritual practice and individuals facing the final months or weeks of life. The Zen Hospice Project Volunteer Caregiver Program encourages a mutually beneficial relationship between people who are cultivating a "listening mind" and heart, and people who need to be heard and seen. Volunteer caregivers provide practical, emotional and spiritual support to men and women with cancer, AIDS, or other terminal illnesses. Each volunteer receives thorough training, on-going supervision, and support from a community of like-minded individuals. No prior experience in health care is necessary; ZHP understands that we each have the capacity to empathetically care for another.

Through the practice of meditation and the application of simple Buddhist teachings, we support the volunteers’ capacity to be present and open to what is happening in the moment. As a community we also explore our own relationship to death and dying. Of course, the values of mindfulness, compassion, and reflection are not exclusive to Buddhist practice. We welcome all spiritual traditions for both patients and volunteers. We wish to encourage a multicultural community. Buddhist practice simply forms the basis of our approach. The Zen Hospice Project has its roots in its historical relationship to the San Francisco Zen Center and its founder, Suzuki Roshi.

The Volunteer Caregiver Program is open to people who can commit to:
a 5-hour shift per week for one year; attendance at a monthly Tuesday evening community support meetings; and all of the dates of the Volunteer Caregiver Training (see below).

Volunteer Caregiver Training: Details & Schedule
Each Spring and Fall, Zen Hospice Project offers an intensive training for new Volunteer Caregivers. This training provides people with the skillful means to serve at the bedside of those who are dying. The training fee for the Volunteer Caregiver program is $200. Click here for an application or call our office at 415-863-2910 to request one by mail.

Early application is recommended, as class size is limited. Applications are reviewed in the order they are received, beginning two months prior to the training. When the current training group is filled to capacity, applications will be held over for the following training session. This training is approved by the California Board of Registered Nursing for 30 contact hours.

Upcoming Training

Frequently Asked Questions About
the Volunteer Caregiver Program

How do I apply for the next training?
The easiest way is to download an application in Adobe Acrobat format by clicking here. Or request an application by contacting Zen Hospice Project at 415.863.2910. Be sure to include your name, address, phone number, email and fax number (if you have one). An application will be mailed to you. The application invites you to take the time for mature consideration of what Hospice volunteering means to you. Complete the application and mail or fax it to ZHP (click here for our address).

How do I become a Volunteer Caregiver?
First, Zen Hospice Project screens all applicants. Upon receipt of your application, you will be contacted by ZHP staff and, if appropriate, you will be scheduled for an interview. Acceptance into the program is based on your application and interview. An important criterion is the reasonability of keeping the commitment we ask. Once the training spaces are filled, all remaining applications are forwarded to the following training and will receive first consideration.

What if I'm not a Zen Buddhist?
In addition to applications from practitioners of all Buddhists traditions, Zen Hospice Project considers applications from individuals from other traditions who have a committed spiritual practice and share our commitment to bringing together spiritual insight and practical social action.

How much does the training cost?
There is a $200 fee, which covers a portion of the costs for this comprehensive training. Fees are payable after acceptance. Payment plans can be arranged.

Where does the training take place?
The training occurs at our two locations in San Francisco: Page Street Guest House and, Laguna Honda Hospital.

What is the Volunteer Caregiver commitment?
Our Volunteer Caregivers commit to one year of service. This includes one weekly shift of five hours, morning, afternoon or evening, seven days a week. In addition, Volunteer Caregivers commit to participating in monthly Volunteer Community Meetings held on the first Tuesday of each month from 6:45pm to 9:00pm. All volunteers are invited to twice-yearly meditation retreats with a teacher from one of many traditions. Volunteers in their first year must also attend all training sessions, as listed on the schedule above.

Do I have to have medical experience?
No. Volunteers work with a team of skilled professionals, who provide the specific medical and clinical services of Hospice care. The volunteer contribution to the Hospice caregiving community is not medical but rather psychosocial, providing compassionate companionship, therapeutic touch, and a listening heart.

Are there other ways to volunteer?
Yes, through our Special Skills Volunteer Program individuals offer invaluable services that directly support Zen Hospice Project.

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