How Does the Application Process Work?

After you submit your application, you will immediately receive an email confirming our receipt of your application. Your application will be reviewed, and then you will be invited to interview with members of the Volunteer Services Department. Through your interview, you will learn about the steps necessary to begin volunteering. Everyone in the Department of Volunteer Services works hard to match your and other applicants’ interests and abilities to Northwestern Medicine departmental needs. It should be noted that applying to the volunteer program and attending the volunteer orientation at Northwestern Medicine does not automatically guarantee acceptance and/or placement into the program. Placing volunteers is an intricate process involving many variables, which we take into careful consideration.

Required Qualifications:

• Must be at least 16 years of age (18 years of age at Northwestern Memorial Hospital)
• Pass criminal background check if 18 years of age or older
• Agree to six-month commitment of at least three to four hours per week* (varies by role/location)
• Attend hospital orientation for new volunteers
• Provide immunization records for or undergo immunization screenings for:
  • Measles, mumps, rubella (MMR)
  • Chickenpox (Varicella)
  • Tetanus (Tdap)
  • Others as needed
• Undergo a TB test
• Receive a flu shot if volunteering during flu season
• Read and comply with Northwestern Medicine policies, such as code of conduct, privacy laws and dress code
• Obtain hospital identification badge and uniform (at no cost to the volunteer)
• Complete on-the-job training for assigned volunteer service

*Teens and college students interested in summer-only service must submit an application by May 1, 2021, and attend an orientation before the end of May 2021. Summer-only volunteers must commit to volunteering one day a week for eight weeks between May and August. Please note: At this time, summer service is not available at Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Evanston Immediate Care Center, Kishwaukee Hospital or Valley West Hospital.

Benefits

• Flu shots at no charge
• Interaction with community-minded, service-oriented people
• Annual awards event and program in recognition of your service to Northwestern Medicine
• Enjoyment and personal growth
• Building social connections with others of all backgrounds