Join our next Volunteer Training - April 14th, 15th & 16th, 2026 from 9am to 4pm in Gaithersburg, MD.
Volunteers are the heart of CaringMatters. In order to responsibly serve patients and the bereaved, every volunteer who works directly with clients must complete a three-day introductory training session, which is often described by graduates as a "transformative experience."
Because of the interaction volunteers have with clients, necessary background checks, paperwork and other items that must be completed before attending the New Volunteer Training. These requirements include:
-
21 years of age or older
-
Consenting to a background check (no cost to volunteer trainee)
-
Attending an informal interview with Penny Gladhill, Director of Volunteer Helping Hands and co-founder of CaringMatters
After the three day training, specific program volunteers are required to complete additional training. Requirements for each program are detailed below. Please note that volunteers are able to volunteer with more than one program.
Volunteer Helping Hands Caregivers:
-
Ability to meet with your clients in person
-
Reliable transportation
-
Complete TB test
-
Provide driver’s license and car insurance
-
Weekday availability
Good Grief Club Facilitators:
-
Additional two days of specialized training, offered each summer
-
Ability to meet in person
-
Reliable transportation
-
Flexible weekday availability
Adult Bereavement Group Facilitators:
-
Additional one day of specialized training, offered a few times throughout the year
-
Technology, Wi-fi and skills to utilize Zoom (for virtual groups)
-
Ability to meet in person
-
Reliable transportation (for in-person groups)
-
Availability weekly on either weekday afternoons or evenings
For more information, please visit the CaringMatters volunteer page: https://www.caringmatters.org/program-volunteer-training
To sign up for the training, please contact Amy Fier at amyf@caringmatters.org.
