Frequently Asked Questions

• Is there a time commitment for volunteering?
  To be most effective and successful, volunteers must be committed to the program. We have minimum commitment requirements for each volunteer program and ask that you please review all requirements before applying. Volunteers are asked to commit to a minimum of one 3-hour shift per week (the same day and time each week) for at least 12 months. High school and college students are required to commit to a minimum of one 3-hour shift per week (the same day and time each week) for at least 6 months.
• Is there a cost to becoming a volunteer?
  The only out of pocket costs for our volunteers is their transportation to and from the hospital. We provide free parking, free uniforms and meal stipend.
• How long does it take to become a volunteer?
  Applications are reviewed as volunteer roles become available. Although we cannot always predict the timing of open roles, in general, we keep applications active for 6 months. If a match has not been found and you have not been contacted by a manager after 6 months, we welcome you to reapply.
• Does every applicant automatically get a volunteer position?
  Our volunteer services program is largely successful because we match the right volunteer to the right position based on their interests and the needs of the hospital. We are extremely grateful for all of the volunteer applications we receive throughout the year. Because the high level of applications often exceeds our volunteer openings, we regret that we may not be able to place every applicant.
• What is the minimum age to become a volunteer?
  As a medical facility, we are required to maintain that all volunteer are at least 15 years old by January 1st of the current year. In order to have patient contact, volunteers must be at least 18 years old.
• What medical information will I need to show to be a volunteer?
  All new volunteers will be asked to provide documentation of completed COVID-19 vaccines and boosters, MMR vaccinations, Varicella vaccinations or history of chicken pox, a flu vaccine during the flu (winter) season, and have a 2-step Tuberculosis skin test within the last 12 months. The flu vaccines are can be provided at Connecticut Children's during our yearly flu clinics once you've become an official volunteer. If you do not have documentation of your vaccinations, you will need to provide proof of immunity through titer testing (blood test). Titer testing is not provided through Connecticut Children's. Applicants will need to obtain the titer test at their own expense, through their family physician
• May I volunteer more than one shift per week or more than 6 months?
  Yes! We begin with one shift per week. If you are consistently available for that first shift, you may discuss adding a second shift with Volunteer Services. There are also times that we need extra help. Those opportunities will be shared via email.
• Is there a dress code?
  Yes. Volunteers are required to abide by the professional dress code policies of Connecticut Children's. Volunteers cannot wear shorts, skirts or dresses above the knee, jeans, scrubs, leggings, sweatpants and open-toes shoes/sandals. More details are provided during orientation.
• Can I do my school community service at Connecticut Children's?
  School mandated community service can be requested by applying to volunteer, however, our minimum hourly commitment must be met before documentation of service can be provided.
• Do you offer opportunities for court-ordered community service?
  No, Connecticut Children's does not offer volunteer opportunities for court mandated community service.

• Does volunteering guarantee me a job at the hospital, if I decide to apply for a paid position?
  No, we cannot guarantee volunteers will obtain a paid position
• Will I need a flu shot in order to volunteer?
  Yes, Connecticut Children's requires all team members and volunteers to have a flu vaccine during flu season.
• I have a group that wants to volunteer for a day. Can we do that at Connecticut Children's?
  Because of patient privacy laws and infection control issues we typically cannot accommodate these types of requests.
• I am in the process of looking for a job and have a flexible schedule right now. Can I begin volunteering at Connecticut Children's?
  Due to the time commitment required, we encourage you to apply for onsite volunteer opportunities once you have a better idea of your work schedule and availability. Once you've started your new job if are still interested and your new schedule allows time for you to commit to volunteering at Connecticut Children's, we encourage you to apply.
• I do not want to work directly with patients. Are there other things I can do?
  Yes, it is possible to volunteer in areas where there is little or no contact with patients. In these roles you indirectly support patient care by supporting staff.