Volunteer Services
It takes a team to heal a child, and hospital volunteers are an essential part of that effort. Whether playing with children during waiting times, greeting visitors or helping families find their way through the halls, the volunteers at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) make a difference providing a special human connection that often eases the stress for patients and families going through difficult times.
CHOP assigns volunteer positions based on the current needs of the hospital along with the volunteer’s availability, interests and skill sets. This includes patient care and hospitality roles across the hospital. Due to the high interest in CHOP’s volunteer programs, we are not able to guarantee placement, or placement in an individual’s preferred role. We strive to select compassionate, enthusiastic individuals who are committed to making a difference.
Volunteer programs
Traditional Volunteer Program
- Volunteers are 18 years and older
- One year commitment (12 consecutive months)
- 3-4 hour fixed weekly shift (shifts are currently Monday-Friday between 9am-5pm, with limited evening and weekend shifts)
- Volunteer positions are located at CHOP’s Philadelphia Campus and King of Prussia Campus.
- Sign-up here to learn more and apply
College & Graduate Volunteer Program
- Volunteers are enrolled in an undergraduate, graduate, or medical school program, and follow a semester-based schedule. Volunteer positions are located at CHOP’s Philadelphia Campus and King of Prussia Campus.
- Volunteers must serve at least 2 consecutive Semesters (for example, Fall and Spring semesters, or Spring and Fall semesters with a Summer break).
- Volunteers must be able to commit to a 4 hour fixed weekly shift (shifts are currently Monday-Friday between 9am-5pm).
- Sign-up here to apply and attend one of our virtual information sessions to learn more.
Summer Volunteer Program
Information about Summer 2025 Volunteer Program applications will be posted in March 2025 – please check back then for information about volunteering for the Summer Volunteer program.
Volunteer requirements
For the safety of our patients and families, we require all volunteers to complete criminal background checks (including, but not limited to, the Child Protective Services Law clearances), and meet the medical clearance requirements listed below. We offer no exemptions, including vaccination exemptions.
Required Medical Clearances
CHOP Volunteer Services will provide applicants with instructions and will cover costs associated with these clearances through CHOP’s Occupational Health Office. We do not accept vaccination exemptions.
- COVID-19 vaccination
- Annual flu vaccination during flu season (September-April every year)
- Proof of immunity (vaccination, immunization record, or titer bloodwork)
- Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR)
- Varicella (Chicken Pox)
- Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis)
- Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR)
- Tuberculosis (TB) screening
Pet Therapy volunteer program
For adults interested in volunteering with their registered canine, visit the Gerald B. Shreiber Pet Therapy Program for information. Please note, pet therapy volunteers must be available once per month.
Other ways to support CHOP
Interested in knowing all the ways you could support CHOP? Learn about how you can make a difference in our care for patients and their families: