Helping Hands volunteers provide brief respite for caregivers by spending time with children who may be in the hospital alone or whose caregiver needs a break. In this role, volunteers help create a comfortable, accepting, and supportive environment for patients while giving families and staff a moment of peace.
Volunteers also assist with recreational activities and play opportunities in group and one-on-one situations, support clinical staff by providing amenities to patient families as needed, and help maintain a welcoming and organized environment by stocking and organizing supplies and preparing for activities and events.
Requirements
- Shifts are available Monday through Friday between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m., and on weekends between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. Each shift lasts three hours, with exact times depending on the area served.
- Volunteers must enjoy working with children of all ages and be sensitive to their needs.
- Volunteers should be independent, self-motivated, able to work autonomously, demonstrate a mature mindset, and feel comfortable using technology and interacting professionally with clinical staff.
- All volunteers must attend orientation and complete required training before independently covering shifts. All Helping Hands volunteers are provided with shadow experiences with a seasoned volunteer prior to beginning solo shifts.
Review our volunteer eligibility requirements and application process >>
Being able to bring a smile to the face of a child in pain or a weary, yet hopeful, parent is my goal. It is a joy to see the St. Jude community work together to make it all work seamlessly. I am glad to have been a part of it all.
Bridget Beckley
Former Helping Hands Volunteer