Make a difference: Become a volunteer at the Children's Hospital of Richmond at VCU

Volunteers play an important role in our success at CHoR, 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 

Besides knowing that you’re helping our patients and staff with the gift of your time and energy, non-student volunteers receive: 

• Free flu shot each fall 
• Free parking while volunteering 
• Invitations to meetings and events 

Non-student 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 including TB screening and verification of immunizations 
• Annual requirements including flu vaccine 
• Initial orientation and annual updates 

If you are a non-student and would like to volunteer, please visit the VCU Health Volunteer Services website to learn more and complete an application. 

College student volunteers 

At the start of every fall, spring and summer semester, 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.
• Find additional information and application materials about the VCU Health volunteer program here. 

Volunteer opportunities for high school students

High school students (ages 14 and up) may apply to volunteer during the summer Junior Volunteer Program. Teens get 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.