Spiritual Care Support Volunteer Roles
Position Summary:
The Spiritual Support Volunteer provides compassionate, non-denominational presence and encouragement to patients, families, and caregivers at Adirondack Health. This role supports the emotional and spiritual well-being of individuals during times of illness, uncertainty, or transition, while respecting each person’s beliefs, traditions, and preferences.
Under the guidance of designated staff and in coordination with clinical teams, the Spiritual Support Volunteer may offer supportive conversation, prayer upon request, reading of inspirational materials, or quiet presence. This role does not provide clinical care, counseling, or formal pastoral services, but serves as an extension of Adirondack Health’s commitment to holistic, patient-centered care.
Spiritual Care Support: Assist chaplains with visits, prayers, and comfort requests.
Responsibilities:
- Provide Compassionate Presence – Offer supportive, non-clinical companionship to patients and families through attentive listening, quiet presence, and respectful conversation.
- Offer Spiritual Support Upon Request – Provide prayer, reading of inspirational materials, or other faith-based support when specifically requested by the patient or family and in alignment with hospital policy.
- Respect Diverse Beliefs & Traditions – Honor all faith backgrounds, cultural practices, and those with no religious affiliation; refrain from proselytizing or imposing personal beliefs.
- Collaborate with Clinical Staff – Coordinate visits with nursing staff to ensure timing is appropriate and does not interfere with medical care; promptly report patient concerns to designated staff.
- Support Patients in Sensitive Situations – Provide calm, reassuring presence during times of illness, crisis, grief, or end-of-life, within the scope of the volunteer role.
- Maintain Professional Boundaries – Do not provide medical advice, counseling, or clinical interventions; adhere strictly to role limitations and follow staff direction.
- Protect Confidentiality & Privacy – Maintain strict HIPAA compliance and safeguard all patient and family information.
Educational Requirements/ Qualifications:
- Interpersonal & Spiritual Competencies
- Ability to follow established procedures and manage tasks independently
- Professional communication skills and a respectful demeanor
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and comply with hospital policies
Reports To:
Volunteer Coordinator, Adirondack Health
Contacts:
Patients, Families, Employees, Medical Staff and Management.
Workplace Environmental Conditions/Hazards:
Modern, clean, well-lighted, ventilated and heated hospital. This position is on-site at Adirondack Health facilities. Must be comfortable working in a patient-facing clinical environment
