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Volunteer Requirements

Valley Children’s depends upon reliable and dedicated volunteers to ensure the best possible care for our patients and their families. We ask that volunteers commit to the requirements and expectations listed below to ensure the safety and well-being of our patients and families.
 

Steps To Becoming A Volunteer

  1. Check your schedule - You must be able to volunteer for six consecutive months on a weekly or biweekly schedule. Review the volunteer opportunities for assignments that will work best for you.
  2. Review our requirements, gather immunization records and provide proof of valid PPD skin tests (administered and read within the last 12 months).
  3. Fill out an application, or click the "I'm ready to apply!" button below.

A volunteer coordinator will contact you regarding program openings that match your interests and availability. Allow three to four weeks for this step in the process, as our coordinators are working diligently to identify the optimal placement just for you. 


General Requirements for Volunteers

  • Are asked to make a six-month commitment to be a volunteer, giving at least eight hours a month on a weekly or biweekly basis.
  • Must be at least 14 years old and have completed the 8th grade. Applicants under 18 years of age will need to provide a copy of their transcript demonstrating a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or greater, as well as two letters of recommendation from a guidance counselor and/or teacher.
  • Able to communicate well in English.
  • Required to have natural nails if assigned to a patient care area. Artificial nails, acrylics or other artificial materials applied over the nails are prohibited in the hospital for individuals who serve in direct patient care roles. The hospital follows the guidelines set forth by the Centers for Disease Control.


Health Screening Clearance

We require:

  • The hospital requires two separate tuberculosis (TB) health screens. This will be provided at no cost to the applicant. If an applicant provides written documentation of a negative TB health screening completed within the last 12 months, they will only be required to complete the second test at Valley Children's.
  • Written documentation of vaccinations or immunizations for measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), influenza (seasonal), varicella ("chicken pox") and pertussis (Tdap). Individuals not able to provide proof of immunity for any or all of the above will be required to have a titer (blood draw) completed on site to assess/check for immunity. This titer may also be done at your physician’s office to expedite the entry process.
  • Compliance with annual flu vaccination requirements.
  • Provide a United States government issued photo identification required at the time of the health screening appointment.
  • A drug specimen will be collected for both adult and minor volunteers. If you test positive, you will not be able to volunteer at Valley Children's.
  • Minor applicants must submit a birth certificate, court order, adoption decree or notarized power of attorney along with their health screening documents to ascertain legal parental permission for program participation and health screening processes. A parent or legal guardian is required to attend all health screening appointments.


Prior to Volunteering

  • Complete all health screening requirements
  • Complete a new volunteer orientation training
  • Complete additional department-specific training
  • Receive health screening and background clearances 
  • Purchase a volunteer apron for $20


Completion of health screening and meeting with the volunteer coordinator does not guarantee acceptance into the volunteer services program.