BRATTLEBORO-The Serious Illness Program (SIP) was created by Brattleboro Area Hospice to offer support, solace, and assistance to people going through a life-altering serious illness that may or may not carry a terminal prognosis.
Becoming an SIP volunteer offers an opportunity to work with clients who are learning to live and thrive while they adjust to the changes that a serious illness brings. SIP volunteers can help in a variety of ways, for instance, by spending time one-on-one with SIP participants or facilitating a support group.
Their Peer Support Groups are a place where folks can gather and openly share their experiences with others who truly understand. They offer "a safe space to share personal experiences, feelings, coping strategies, and also allow for shared learning," according to a news release. Volunteers are vital to peer support group experience where they help create the space for the sharing to occur.
One-on-one Volunteer Support can include support as simple as a weekly phone call or a chat over some tea. Support may be helping out around the house, going out to a social gathering, or taking a walk by the river. It can be described as "whatever a neighbor could do" and is a great way to meet and support our community members.
Applications for the training are now being accepted. Go to bit.ly/800-sip. No experience is needed, and space is limited. A $40 contribution to cover the cost of materials is requested; scholarships are available. For more information, contact SIP Coordinator Eileen Glover at eileen.glover@brattleborohospice.org or call 802-257-0775.
This Town and Village item was submitted to The Commons.