one mission.
many ways to serve.
Volunteer with Empath in Marion County, FL
the values our volunteers bring to
full life care
eternally hopeful
Sit quietly. Share a smile. Bring light when it's needed most. Our volunteers show up with open hearts and steady presence — reminding people they're never alone.
lovingly truthful
Listen deeply. Speak kindly. Show up just as you are. Our volunteers bring honesty and warmth to every moment, honoring each story with empathy and respect.
profoundly helpful
Welcome visitors. Address envelopes. Feed a pet. Ring up a sale. Whatever the task, our volunteers are always ready to lend a hand — with care, compassion, and zero hesitation.
confidently skillful
Play the piano. Lead an art project. Offer a gentle massage. Our volunteers bring their whole selves — trained, prepared, and ready to share skills that make a real difference.
courageously impactful
Hold a hand. Honor a veteran. Walk alongside someone through grief. It takes courage to show up in life's tender moments — and our volunteers do it with heart, every time.
opportunity types
teens
teens
Bring your energy, compassion, and curiosity — we'll help you make an impact.
Teen volunteers are an important part of our mission. Whether you're exploring career paths in healthcare, looking for community service hours, or simply want to brighten someone's day, your time and presence matter. You'll grow in confidence, empathy, and connection while making a real difference.
presence + comfort
presence + comfort
Companionship. Conversation. Quiet support. It all matters.
Presence + Comfort volunteers offer warmth, connection, and relief to patients and families in moments that matter most. Whether it's reading a book, making a call, sharing music, or simply sitting in silence, these volunteers are a vital part of how we deliver Full Life Care with dignity and love.
essential support
essential support
Every task supports care. Every hour moves our mission forward.
These are the steady hands behind the scenes. From organizing donations to answering phones, greeting guests, helping with mailings, or delivering supplies — this work ensures that patients, families, and teams have what they need to focus on what matters most.
opportunities for teen volunteers:
- Greet and assist visitors at care centers
- Serve in our thrift stores (sorting donations, tidying displays, assisting customers)
- Participate in special summer or holiday volunteer programs
opportunities for presence + comfort volunteers:
- Visit patients in homes, assisted living, nursing facilities, and care centers
- Provide companionship and respite for caregivers
- Make bereavement support calls or check-ins
- Support veterans through our We Honor Veterans Program, including personalized recognition ceremonies and Vet-to-Vet visits for shared connection
- Assist patients with life story writing to preserve their memories and legacy
- Share music, art, reiki, or massage therapy
- Visit with your certified therapy pet
- Help patients care for their animals through Pet Peace of Mind, offering basic pet care and coordination of services like grooming or veterinary visits
opportunities for essential support volunteers
- Serve in Hospice Thrift Stores (sorting, merchandising, customer service)
- Assist with office tasks like filing, scanning, data entry, and answering phones
- Welcome and direct guests at front desks
- Help with seasonal mailings and donor outreach
- Support special events and health fairs in the community
- Deliver supplies to patient homes or care settings
- Help maintain the Serenity Garden and other healing spaces
frequently asked questions
How often do I need to volunteer?
We welcome volunteers with a variety of availability. Many choose to give a few hours each week, while others support special events or seasonal needs. Some roles, like teen volunteering, have a set minimum commitment, but we'll work with you to find the right fit for your schedule and our programs.
As a volunteer, will I be working directly with patients?
That's up to you. We offer both direct patient support roles and non-patient roles such as administrative help, thrift store service and hospitality at care centers. Volunteers who wish to support patients and families will receive specialized training and complete additional screening.
What if I want to give back to Empath Hospice of Marion County but don’t know what kind of volunteering is right for me
That's more common than you think—and it's a great place to start. When you apply to volunteer, we'll talk with you about your interests, experiences, and availability. Whether you love connecting with people, prefer working behind the scenes, have a creative skill, or simply want to help where it's needed most, we'll help you explore roles that match your talents and passions. There's no one-size-fits-all approach to volunteering—and that's what makes it so powerful.
How old do teens need to be to volunteer?
Teens must be in high school or 14 years of age to volunteer. And yes! You can earn service hours.
What is the screening process to become a volunteer?
All volunteers complete an interview, provide references, and undergo a background screening. Those volunteering with patients also complete fingerprinting and a TB test. These steps help ensure the safety of our patients, families, staff, and volunteers.
What training is provided?
Volunteers attend a general orientation session that covers Empath Health's mission, volunteer roles, and expectations. If you're supporting patients and families directly, an additional training session will prepare you with the knowledge and confidence to offer meaningful care. We also provide ongoing training throughout the year to help deepen your skills and expand your impact.
Can I volunteer with a group or as part of a community service project?
Yes. We welcome service clubs, school groups, corporate teams, and faith communities looking to make a difference together. Group volunteering opportunities include everything from working in our resale stores and helping with comfort items and crafts for patients, to organizing donation drives and supporting special events. Let us know your group's interests and we'll help coordinate a meaningful experience.
Are there opportunities for virtual or remote volunteering?
In some cases, yes. While many roles take place in person, we offer remote options like making various calls to patients. Ask us what's currently available in your area—we're always evolving to meet the needs of our community and volunteers.
Can volunteering help me explore a career in healthcare or social work?
Absolutely. Many of our volunteers go on to pursue careers in nursing, social work, counseling, and other caring professions. Volunteering offers firsthand experience with interdisciplinary teams and meaningful connections with patients and families. It's a powerful way to discover your path—and make a real impact along the way.
