LAKEPORT, Calif. — Hospice Services of Lake County has an immediate need for volunteers at thrift store locations in Lakeport, Clearlake and Middletown.

Volunteers play a vital role in the store operations including stocking merchandise, assisting customers with purchases at the cash register and accepting donations.

Stores are open Monday through Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. with volunteers filling three- or four-hour shifts on the days of their choice.

Flexible shifts are available, and volunteers receive 25 percent discounts on merchandise as well as other incentives.

“Staff and volunteers incorporate CDC protocols throughout our store operations to prevent the spread of COVID,” said Hospice Services Executive Director Cindy Sobel, R.N. “We are committed to maintaining a safe environment for our volunteers, staff and customers. Plastic shields are installed at cash registers, counters and fixtures are regularly sanitized, staff and volunteers are vaccinated or tested weekly, masks are required, and social distancing encouraged. Customers are encouraged to mask up and we always have extra masks available for them.”

Volunteering at Hospice retail stores is a valuable opportunity for students wanting to learn job skills, build their resume, and fulfill community service hours.

Retirees and others find volunteering helps them stay active, productive, engaged with others while giving back to the community.

To learn more about volunteering at Hospice Services thrift stores or the many other volunteer opportunities at Hospice Services of Lake County, call Christy at 707-263-6222, Extension 104, or email her at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

“Volunteers are essential in the operation of our thrift stores,” said Retail Sales Manager Melanie McCreary.

Training is provided, and stores are positive and supportive environments for individuals interested in giving back to their community.

Hospice Services thrift store revenue supports the Wings of Hope bereavement program serving children and families with camps and school-based grief counseling all around Lake County.

Journey through Grief support groups, individual counseling and drop-in groups also are provided at no charge to participants.

“Hospice Services has done so much for me personally, students, individuals and the community at large … and it is fun,” said retired teacher and thrift store volunteer Carolynn Jarrett. “I like to give back. During these uncertain times when there are so many needs, volunteering is a rewarding way to stay involved in the community.”

Hospice Services of Lake County provides high quality medical, emotional and spiritual care to help patients and their families navigate their end-of-life journeys.

For more information, call Hospice Services of Lake County, 707-263-6222.

Visit the organization’s website at www.lakecountyhospice.org.

Janine Smith-Citron is director of development for Hospice Services of Lake County.