Volunteer opportunities to support St. Jude

What is ALSAC?
American Lebanese Syrian Associated Charities (ALSAC) was founded by Danny Thomas in 1957 to be the fundraising and awareness organization for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, and its sole mission is to raise the funds and awareness necessary to operate and maintain the hospital. In the years ahead, an estimated 87% of the funds necessary to sustain and grow St. Jude must be raised by ALSAC from generous donors. 

Why should I volunteer?
The mission of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital is to advance cures, and means of prevention, for pediatric catastrophic diseases through research and treatment. Consistent with the vision of our founder Danny Thomas, no child is denied treatment based on race, religion or a family's ability to pay.

Are there multi-lingual volunteer opportunities available?
Yes, multi-lingual volunteer opportunities will be specified in the volunteer role as applicable.

How old do I have to be to volunteer?
We welcome volunteers of any age; however, volunteers under the age of 18 must have the written consent of a parent or legal guardian. A volunteer under the age of 17 must be accompanied by an adult.  If individuals under the age of 17 are volunteering as a group, they must have at least one adult chaperone for every 5 youth volunteers. 

Do I need any volunteer experience?
Volunteer experience is not required although certain positions may require a specific skillset to complete, which will be noted on the role description.

Do I need a background check to volunteer?
Some volunteer roles will require a background check. Screening requirements will be indicated in the role description. Background checks may include criminal history, social security number verification and sex offender registry review, as well as licensure and motor vehicle record if appropriate to the position.  If you are under the age of 18: Parental/guardian consent is requested in lieu of a background check, which is not required for those under the age of 18.

How do I choose which volunteer opportunity is right for me?
Volunteers should use the Volunteer Portal to find available opportunities that comfortably fit their skillset and interests.

When are your volunteer opportunities?
We have various volunteer shifts that occur throughout the year to suit your availability.

Where are volunteer opportunities located?
We have an extensive list of volunteer opportunities that occur throughout the year around the country. Please refer to the Volunteer Portal for opportunity locations. For opportunity locations, contact your local ALSAC/St.Jude office.

Can I receive service hours for volunteering?
Yes, you may receive service hours for volunteering your time.  The volunteer lead at the event will be glad to sign off on your hour log once you have completed your shift. Your profile within the Volunteer Portal will track hours.

Is there volunteer orientation?
Yes, orientation will be provided as needed.

Do I have to complete training to volunteer?
Some volunteer roles require pre-service and/or on-going training. Any required training must be completed to serve.

What if I cannot attend the scheduled orientation/training?
Any required training must be completed to in order to serve.

What is the time commitment required to volunteer?
Certain positions have a time commitment, depending on the opportunity. The time commitment will be specified in the role description.

How can I volunteer at the hospital?
To volunteer at the hospital, visit this link. If you are interested in volunteering locally in support of the kids of St. Jude, there are local opportunities available through the Volunteer Portal.

Will I be able to interact with patients as a volunteer?
The St. Jude mission has many different facets and while patients interaction is a possibility, it is not always a given.

Are there opportunities for large groups to volunteer?
Yes, if you are looking to do a service project with a community group, church, or team there are many opportunities to give your time. Each group member must register through the Volunteer Portal individually. Individuals under the age of 18 volunteering as a group must have at least one adult chaperone for every 5 youth volunteers. 

For specific questions who do I contact?
For specific opportunity questions, reach out to the contact listed on the opportunity within the Volunteer Portal.  For all other inquiries, email us.

Will I be provided a meal/snack?
Based on the length of the shift, some volunteer opportunities may be provided with a meal/snack. You will be notified by confirmation email from your coordinator in advance if there will be a meal/snack. Refer to your volunteer profile for details.

What should I wear?
Recommended attire will be listed in the role description of the volunteer opportunity you register for.

How early should I arrive?
Prior to your shift, you will receive an email confirmation from the volunteer lead with information on when to arrive. For some volunteer roles, you may need to arrive as early as one hour prior to the shift.