At Shriners Hospitals for Children Northern California, individuals from all walks of life share their time and talents to enrich the lives of others. Whether working directly with patients or in an office setting, volunteers support Shriners Hospital in its mission to provide the highest quality of care to children with orthopaedic conditions, spinal cord injuries and burns.

The volunteer experience begins with the application process. To request an application, contact the volunteer services office at (916) 453-2087 or e-mail SHCNCvolunteer@shrinenet.org.

The Application Process

• Volunteer applications are available at the reception desk in the hospital lobby and the volunteer services office.
• Volunteers must be 18 years of age and older.
• All volunteer applicants must provide names and addresses of two references.
• Volunteer services reviews all applications to match skills and availability with volunteer needs.
• Applicants are called for an interview when a potential match is found. Applications are kept on file for six months.
• All hospital volunteers must attend a Volunteer Orientation.

Health Requirements

• All hospital volunteers are screened for tuberculosis and asked to complete a health information questionnaire.
• Volunteers must provide a vaccination record to show that they have been immunized against measles, rubella and chicken pox.
• All hospital volunteers must undergo a drug test and background check.

Volunteer Placements

The Volunteer services office makes every effort to assign individuals to specified areas of interest. The many volunteer opportunities include:

• Translating for medical staff and patients
• Helping children enjoy recreation activities
• Tutoring children in the hospital school
• Providing clerical support
• Assisting with special events

Benefits of Volunteering

Volunteers are encouraged to develop their skills and interests through a variety of venues. To formally thank volunteers for their contributions, Shriners Hospitals for Children Northern California provides the following:

• Volunteer recognition reception
• Annual volunteer picnic
• Free, secure parking in Shriners Hospital garage
• Volunteer newsletter
• Free TB test annually
• Free uniform
• Opportunities to participate in educational forums

Special Programs

In addition to providing traditional volunteer opportunities, the Shriners Hospital in Sacramento invites volunteers to participate in other special programs.

• Pet Therapy: dogs, cats and other socially-oriented animals reach out to children and families through the volunteer pet therapy program.
  
• Community Giving Ideas: Built on the philosophy that people can make a difference in the lives of others, Shriners Hospitals for Children recognizes the importance of involving the community in its programs. There are many ways you can enrich the hospital experience for children and families through special projects and community participation.
  
• Summer Youth Program: This program is designed specifically for young volunteers who are 16-18 years old. High school students are provided with work experience in a health care setting.
  
  For further information about volunteer opportunities at the Sacramento Shriners Hospital call
  (916) 453-2087 or e-mail SHCNCvolunteer@shrinenet.org.

Shriners Hospitals for Children Northern California
2425 Stockton Boulevard
Sacramento, CA 95817
(916) 453-2000

Web: www.shrinershq.org
E-mail: SHCNCvolunteer@shrinenet.org