What are my time commitments?
The minimum time commitment is 4 hours a week for 6 months. You must be able to commit to volunteering on a weekly basis at a scheduled time. The summer teen program is six weeks long, 8 hours a week.
How old do I have to be to volunteer?
The minimum age is 14 years of age.
What is the process for becoming a volunteer?
- Once your completed volunteer application is received, you will get a confirmation e-mail within two business days.
- Upon reviewing your availability and interests, and after your background check has been processed, you will be contacted to schedule an interview within three weeks.
- After your references are checked and you have attended the interview, you may be scheduled for the next available orientation.
- You will receive your placement after attending volunteer orientation.
Where should I park for my interview?
Park in the ‘View Park Parking Garage’, on the west side of the hospital. We will be able to validate your parking. There are also King County Metro busses that stop at HMC and the Health Sciences Express.
How long does it take to become a volunteer?
It takes approximately six weeks to become a volunteer.
How long will the interview take?
The interview will take approximately 15-20 minutes.
How often is Volunteer Orientation?Volunteer Orientation takes place once a month.
Is there a dress code for volunteering?
Yes. We ask our volunteers to assume a business casual to professional dress code, or pink volunteer scrubs if applicable.
Can I volunteer for only the summer?
Yes. Summer Teen Volunteers must commit to a minimum of 8 hours a week for 6 weeks. A volunteer application is due by April 15th to be considered for this program.
Will I be able to shadow a doctor? Do you have research positions available?
Does Harborview offer internships and/or externships?
No. Physician observation experiences are not offered, nor do we do internships, externships, or research positions.
If I volunteer will I get a job at the hospital?
Volunteering at the hospital does not guarantee employment at Harborview.
How long do you keep applications?
If you do not complete the process within three months your application will be discarded.
I’ve attended orientation – what’s next?
Orientation is a two-step process. Once the competency quizzes and TB results are completed and turned in, you are ready to be assigned a department and schedule by volunteer services.
Can I continue volunteering beyond my 6 month commitment?
Of course! You will be kept on the Volunteer Schedule until you resign. In order to continue volunteering you must update your file every year by the date of your original Volunteer Orientation.
Where can I volunteer?
Most of our volunteers are placed in the Patient Family Resource Center, the Patient Family Liaison Department, the Emergency Department, the Burn Unit, Rehab Therapy, Pathology, Radiology, the Information Desk, and Volunteer Services. We offer limited availability in other departments.