Make a Difference

Become a volunteer

Volunteers play an important role in the success of Children's Hospital of Richmond at VCU, providing invaluable services to our patients and staff. Volunteers provide that extra touch—a warm smile, a cheerful greeting, an extra pair of hands. The rewards of volunteering are many, as are the opportunities for giving and caring.

Volunteers make a difference in various inpatient and outpatient settings as well as in clerical roles. We offer volunteer opportunities for adults (non-students), college/graduate students and junior volunteers ages 14 to 17.

Adult (non-student) volunteers

In addition to knowing that you are helping our patients and staff with the gift of your time and energy, adult volunteers receive:

• Free flu shot each fall
• Free health screening and TB test upon joining and annually
• Free parking while volunteering
• Invitations to meetings and events

Adult volunteer requirements and commitments include:

• Must be at least 18 years of age
• Availability for a year or more
• Commitment to a regular, weekly shift of two hours or more
• Personal interview
• Background investigation
• Initial health screening and annual requirements including flu vaccine
• Initial orientation and annual updates

If you are an adult and would like to volunteer, please complete an application.

College/grad student volunteers

At the beginning of the fall, spring and summer semesters, we welcome students from various colleges and universities to become involved in various ways. To ensure you are able to volunteer, you must begin working on the requirements before the semester begins:

• All interested students must return COMPLETED application AND health forms to Volunteer Services by the posted deadline. There are no exceptions.
• Once completed application and health forms are turned in, it is the student's responsibility to follow all given instructions and to sign up for a unit and time to volunteer with the assistance of the Volunteer Services staff.
• All volunteers must commit to volunteer the same day and time each week for the entire semester.
• All new volunteers must attend an orientation session listed on the application.

Find additional information and application materials here.

Junior volunteers

High school students (ages 14 and up) may apply to volunteer during the summer Junior Volunteer Program. The program gives teens a chance to experience the benefits of donating time and services to the community, and to explore career options in the health care field.

There are a limited number of positions available for this popular program. Visit the VCU Health Volunteer Services website to learn more.