Approaching Hospitals and Clinics for Volunteer Opportunities

If you are passionate about making a difference in the healthcare community, pursuing volunteer opportunities at hospitals and clinics can be an incredibly rewarding experience. Here's a guide on how to approach such organizations effectively and increase your chances of securing a volunteer role.

Steps to Approach Hospitals and Clinics

When seeking volunteer positions at a hospital or clinic, the first step is to reach out to the organization either online or in person. Here are the most effective methods to initiate contact:

Online Inquiry

Many hospitals and clinics maintain comprehensive volunteer information on their websites. You can start your search by visiting their website. Look for sections like 'Volunteer Services,' 'Get Involved,' or 'How to Volunteer.' These pages often provide contact information, eligibility criteria, and application procedures.

In Person Appointment

If you prefer to speak directly with someone, consider making an in-person appointment. There are a few methods to do this:

Contact the main switchboard or administrative office via phone or email and inquire about the best way to schedule an appointment. Alternatively, you can drop by the hospital or clinic during office hours and ask to speak with the volunteer coordinator or a member of the administrative staff.

Contacting the Right Departments

While the volunteer coordinator is often the first point of contact, there are other departments that may be involved in managing volunteer positions. Here are some approaches to consider:

Call the organization and ask to speak to the person in charge of volunteer inquiries. This could be someone in the volunteer services department or a member of the human resources team. Visit the physical location of the hospital or clinic and go through the necessary information to reach the appropriate department. Contact the volunteer guild or ask to speak to a head nurse or doctor in charge of a specific department, such as the emergency room (ER) or surgery.

Personal Experience: A Peek into the World of Volunteering

Back in the day, I volunteered as a Candy Striper at my local hospital. My experience was organized through my high school, and my role involved delivering books and magazines to patients during my three-hour shift on Saturdays. Wearing a charming pink and white striped bib apron with a junior nurse's hat, the role brought a mix of joy and responsibility.

In recent years, my experience as a patient at Mayo Clinic has provided me with a new perspective on hospital volunteer work. At Mayo Clinic, volunteers manage elevators and operate information desks scattered across the Mayo Campus. This is just one example of the diverse roles available in a hospital setting.

For those looking to get involved, I recommend contacting the human resources department of the hospital nearest to you. They are usually in need of volunteers and can provide detailed information on the application and selection process.

Contacting Human Resources

Sustaining a long-term volunteer commitment often begins with a solid connection to the organization's human resources department. Most hospitals have a dedicated department for volunteer services. Contact them directly to learn more about the process and the different roles available.

Steps to Take

Start by speaking with the receptionist. They can often provide you with the necessary information or direct you to the appropriate contact person. Visit the hospital or clinic's website to find the volunteer services section. There, you can often inquire about the volunteer program.

Good luck with your volunteer endeavors! Your contribution can make a significant impact on the lives of patients and staff alike.