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Frequently asked questions

Can I volunteer in whatever area I want?

Volunteer opportunities are determined based on the needs of the hospital. Applications are reviewed and individuals are selected for an interview based on interests, availability and skills to satisfy the requirements of the role. Our goal is to ensure volunteers support a positive patient experience, and also have a rewarding experience.

Does your program allow for “seasonal” volunteering? I may not be able to make a consecutive 6-month commitment.

While we do require a consistent, regular commitment, we are able to accommodate some seasonal absences (e.g. travel/absence during winter or summer).

How old do I have to be to volunteer?

The minimum age to volunteer at all sites across Sunnybrook is 16. You must be the minimum age when you submit your application.

Do you have a student volunteer program?

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.

I am a high school student. Can I complete my 40 hours of community service for my secondary school graduation requirement at Sunnybrook?

Due to orientation/training, as well as other requirements to volunteer in a hospital, we are not able to accept students who only wish to complete 40 hours. If you are able to fulfill our minimum commitment expectations, (one weekly shift during school year September to June, or 3-4 shifts weekly during summer), you may apply. While the volunteer hours accumulated at Sunnybrook can be used to meet your secondary school community service requirements, we will only provide confirmation of hours to those who have fulfilled our program requirements. For those wishing to only complete 40 hours of community service, there are a variety of organizations in need of volunteers. One resource to check is www.volunteertoronto.ca.

I am professionally trained in a healthcare field. May I practice or gain experience as a volunteer?

No. Volunteer roles do not include duties or responsibilities that are performed by a licensed or regulated profession (e.g., physician, physiotherapist, nurse, lab technician, etc.). All volunteers, regardless of their prior background or training, are restricted to performing duties approved for volunteers and as outlined in the volunteer role description.

Will I get a reference for volunteering?

This depends on the following:

  • Have you reliably fulfilled the expected commitment? (minimum 6 months to 1 year or 75 hours or more)
  • What type of reference do you require? (e.g. academic, employment, confirmation of volunteering, verification of hours, etc.)
  • Does the Volunteer Resources coordinator know you well enough to complete this?
  • How long has it been since you volunteered? For example, if it has been more than 2 years, we may be able to confirm your volunteer activity, but will not be able to provide a reference.
  • Have you provided sufficient notice for your request? We require a minimum of 2 weeks; longer is better, especially if the reference requires time to complete.

Can I volunteer in more than one area, or for more than one shift?

New volunteers begin with one placement. Additional opportunities may be considered after completing a minimum 6-month commitment and if there is a suitable opening.

Will I need to pay for parking?

Volunteers receive complimentary parking during their volunteer shift. A $10.00 refundable deposit is required.

Does the hospital provide TTC tokens for those who take transit?

Transportation to and from volunteering is the responsibility of the volunteer.

I understand volunteers are required to have a medical form completed. Can I have this done at the hospital?

Successful applicants will be required to complete a medical form within one month of their start date. This form includes immunization status and completion of a two-step tuberculosis (TB) test that must be completed by your family physician. Proof of vaccination for COVID-19 is also required.

Will the hospital cover any costs from my doctor associated with the medical form?

Any costs associated with the medical form are the responsibility of each volunteer applicant.

Do volunteers wear a uniform?

All volunteers are required to wear a provided uniform. This includes a hospital photo ID badge.

Are volunteers provided with orientation and training?

Yes. All volunteers receive orientation and training provided online via Zoom, E-learning modules as well as in-person.