Volunteers - Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are the requirements?

A: Adult Volunteers must be 18 years or older, complete application and health clearance forms, pass a background check and attend an orientation session. Student Volunteers must be 14 through 17 years old.

Q. How do I get started?

A. Fill out a volunteer application. Our program is rewarding and fun, but demands a significant service-based commitment on your part. Please carefully consider your schedule and your ability to commit your time.

Q. What is my time commitment?

A. Volunteers keep a regular schedule of one shift per week. Most shifts are four hours long, and nearly all shifts occur during regular weekday business hours.

Q. May I volunteer more than one shift per week?

A. Yes! Many of our volunteers give their time more than once a week, sometimes even in two or more service areas. We are especially interested in recruiting long-term volunteers. Many of our volunteers have been with us for many years and have completed thousands of volunteer hours.

Q. Why do you need my Social Security and driver’s license numbers?

A. This information is used for background checks and to verify your identity. This information is protected in our database and is not shared with anyone.

Q. I speak only a little bit of Spanish. Should I list this under “languages”?

A. YES! Please list any/all languages you are familiar with, including American Sign Language. You may be surprised how often you get to use your language skills in the course of volunteering.

Q. If I am younger than 18, do I need my parents to sign the application?

A. Yes. If you are under 18, your parent(s) or legal guardian(s) must sign the application.

Q. Who should I list as references?

A. You may list teachers, friends, neighbors, associates at church or social groups or anyone who can provide a reference regarding your character and suitability to work as a volunteer with hospitalized children in a diverse setting.

Q. Why do I need to complete a Health Clearance?

A. We need a Volunteer Health Clearance form to show proof that you:

Have had a negative tuberculosis tests (called a PPD) within the last 12 months.
Have received your immunizations for, or are immune to, rubella, rebeola and mumps (only student volunteers are required to show proof of immunizations).
Are in good physical and mental health

Q. Where do I get a TB/PPD test?

A. You may obtain TB/PPD testing from your own healthcare provider or you may visit the Children’s Hospital Employee Health department during drop-in hours for free testing. You do not need an appointment.

Q. As a student volunteer, what should I provide as proof of my immunization?

A. A photocopy of your immunization record, such as an immunization card, is acceptable. If you received your first immunization as an infant, make sure you also received a second MMR booster after you turned four years of age. Your physician may also complete this section of the form. He or she also needs to provide a signature to rubber stamp their office information for verification.

Q. I think I had my immunization as a child, but I cannot find my records. What should I do?

A. This is a common experience. If you cannot find records of your immunization, you may prove your immunity by having a blood titer test. A blood titer requires a small blood draw so your antigen level or immunity can be measured directly. If you do not show immunity, you may need to have an MMR booster.

Volunteering is fun, rewarding and an essential part of The Health Organizations at Saint Francis. We look forward to having you as a part of our program!