Become a volunteer
Commitment and requirements
Because of the nature of care being delivered at the hospital, all volunteers are carefully screened and placed into appropriate assignments, and each volunteer must adhere to standard policies and procedures.
In June 2012, we are moving downtown and changing our name to Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago. We are currently seeking volunteers who would like to volunteer at our current Lincoln Park location, and continue to volunteer when we move in June 2012. Learn more about the new hospital.
Summer program
Due to the demands of the move to Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago in June, we will not offer a summer program in 2012. Please check back for information on our 2013 summer program.
Daytime program
Our weekday daytime program has the largest number of volunteer opportunities. If you are available during these hours, we ask for a commitment of one three-hour shift per week on the same day and at the same time each week. The minimum commitment is for six months, but volunteers who start in 2011 will be asked to commit through at least June 2012 and move with us to the new hospital.
The placement process includes the following steps:
Step 1:
- Complete the preliminary questionnaire.
- Call Volunteer Resources (773.880.4507) to schedule an interview on the date indicated when you submitted the questionnaire.
Step 2:
- Attend your individual interview with a Volunteer Coordinator.
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Complete Volunteer Application and Agreement (at your interview).
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Complete criminal background check.
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Complete health and immunization screening.
Step 3 (once selected):
- Attend volunteer orientation.
- Pay $20 fee to help defray the cost of volunteer uniform.
- Complete assignment-specific training.
Evening/weekend program
Evening and weekend volunteering at the hospital is very popular, and we currently have many people awaiting placement when positions open. Most evening assignments run from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Weekend hours vary. A regular weekly shift is required for a minimum of one year. Volunteers who start in 2011 will be asked to commit through at least June 2012 and move with us to the new hospital.
The placement process includes the following steps:
Step 1:
- Call Volunteer Resources (773.880.4507) to be placed on our e-mail list for more detailed information, a preliminary questionnaire, and to be invited to the next informational meeting.
- Attend the informational meeting.
Step 2:
Step 3: (once selected)
- Attend volunteer orientation.
- Pay $20 fee to help defray the cost of volunteer uniform.
- Complete assignment-specific training.
Our screening and placement process ensures the safety and well-being of patients and families as well as the confidence and success of volunteers. Although we are continually assessing the volunteer needs at the hospital, we may not be able to match your interests and availability with our current opportunities.