Requirements for volunteers

A number of requirements are in place to ensure a safe and successful volunteer experience.

Age

Volunteers must be 16 years of age or older.

Attendance & Time Commitment

Volunteers are expected to commit to one 3-4 hour shift weekly on a consistent day and time for a minimum of 6-12 months. Please ensure you are able to reliably fulfill this commitment before you apply.

Seasonal volunteering
We are often able to accommodate those who may be away at certain times of the year due to travel (e.g. travel south in winter.)

Students
We do not have a dedicated summer or seasonal student volunteer program. Post- secondary and high school students (minimum 16 years of age) are welcome to apply. Applications will be considered based on ability to fulfill our commitment expectations, the needs of specific volunteer roles and our available positions. Those who are not available for 6 consecutive months may apply and may be accepted if able to volunteer more than one shift weekly.

Due to the requirements of hospital volunteer programs, we are unable to consider high school students who only wish to fulfill their 40-hour community service requirement.

Immunization & TB Test

Upon offer, all volunteers are required to submit documentation of immunization (MMR, TdaP, Varicella) and a 2-step Tuberculosis (TB) skin test. The form must be filled out by your family physician and submitted to Volunteer Resources before you can start volunteering. Sunnybrook does not cover any costs associated with immunization, testing or completion of the form.

Infection Prevention and Control Protocols

Volunteers are expected to comply with the hospital's infection prevention and control protocols. This includes wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) provided by the hospital according to requirements for specific areas and roles.

Reference

Contact information for one reference will be required if you are interviewed and offered a volunteer placement.

Training

Participation in online orientation, and in-person onsite training, is required in order to volunteer. Ongoing training may be required for some roles (virtual and/or in person).

Technology and Zoom

The volunteer application is digital and is available to be completed online.

Interview and orientation take place through a combination of Zoom & E-learning, as well as in person. Ongoing communication is shared through email. Volunteers should have a comfort level using devices and technology.