Volunteering
Volunteers are valuable members of our team who often comfort and cheer up patients. Volunteers have the opportunity to learn about our world-class services, gain valuable experience and make long-lasting friendships.
Adult volunteers
We offer many volunteer placement opportunities in medical and support areas that can be customized to meet your needs. Even if youre not sure about how you may fit in, we can help you choose an opportunity based on your background and experience.
Volunteer opportunities include:
Surgical waiting room
Communicate with families during their loved one s surgery
Departmental liaisons
Assist staff within departments (e.g., infusion center, ambulatory surgery unit, recovery room, physical therapy) to meet patient needs
Reception ambassadors
Welcome patients and families as they enter the hospital
Art and jewelry therapy
Create art and jewelry at the bedside of patients
Concierge Ambassador Program
Socialize with patients as they wait to get their procedures done and as they recover in the hospital after surgery
Volunteering requirements
We look for volunteers who are committed to making a difference in our patients' lives. If you are caring and compassionate, this is an opportunity for you to provide a meaningful and satisfying experience for those who need it most. Volunteers also have valuable exposure to the health care industry.
Requirements include:
- For adult volunteers, there is a 100-hour time commitment per year, with the expectation of completing one four-hour shift per week. Some of the programs require additional training.
- Volunteers must meet the standards of patient- and family-centered care: professional, courteous, compassionate and respectful.
- Applicants must be interviewed. If accepted, there is a six-month probationary period.
All adult applicants must attend a mandatory volunteer orientation, complete medical clearance, and clear a background screening before they can begin their assignment.
Junior Volunteer Summer High School Program
This four-week program places individuals throughout the hospital in hands-on nonclinical roles. The junior volunteers (15-17 years old) can rotate into different areas each week depending on their interests. They are expected to volunteer a minimum of 100 hours during the course of the program, volunteering a minimum of four days per week (Monday - Thursday) from 9am to 3pm. Students must be available for the duration of the program.
The program accepts approximately 16 high school students, providing extensive exposure to hospital operations and care delivery. Ideal candidates for the program are mature with an interest in health care, a willingness and desire to make an impact, previous volunteer experience, and related career interests.
Junior application process
If youre interested in applying for the program, fill out an application. After its reviewed, potential candidates will be called in for an interview during February and March. Acceptances and declinations to the program will be sent via email thereafter.
Junior volunteers will be asked to attend a mandatory orientation and provide:
- Working papers
- Letter of recommendation from a guidance counselor or teacher
- Medical clearance
- Parental consent form
- Short-term shadowing opportunities
Interested in shadowing/observing a medical professional (MD, PA, RN or NP) at MEETH? In order to participate in this program, you must already have a physician/sponsor associated with MEETH or Lenox Hill Hospital.
Once your medical professional has been identified, please email us at address above to begin the onboarding process. Your identified medical professional will have to reach out to the volunteer office to obtain the proper paperwork, as well. You will only be allowed to shadow up to 75 hours.