At the time of applying, volunteers must be at least 16 years of age or older to volunteer at Humber River.

When you apply online, you will receive an email from us within 3 – 4 business days confirming that we have received your application. We recommend that you check your Junk Mail folder as well if you do not receive our confirmation email.

Applications are reviewed on a regular basis. Applicants will be invited to an interview based on their interests, their availability and potential volunteer openings within the hospital. Interview information is sent via email so applicants are asked to check their Inbox and Junk Mail folder for any messages. Applications are held for 6 months, if you do not hear from us during that time, you are welcome to reapply. It is recommended that you inform us of any changes to your application such as availability, contact information, etc.

The application process may take approximately 4 – 6 weeks to complete from acceptance into the Volunteer Program to the applicant’s first day. The application process includes references, completion of the health assessment, completion of E-Learning modules and attending a Volunteer Orientation session.

The health assessment form is provided upon acceptance into the Volunteer Program. All volunteers are required to complete a health assessment with their family physician or walk-in clinic. Any costs associated with the health assessment are the responsibility of the applicant.

During the interview, we’ll talk to you about areas you’re interested in. We’ll assign you to an area based on your interests, the needs of departments and our current availability. Unfortunately we cannot guarantee placements in specific areas of the hospital.

Volunteers in our Year-Round Program commit to one 3-4 hour shift per week for a minimum of one year. Volunteers in our Summer Student Program commit to two 4 hour shifts per week. Post-Secondary students volunteer for all of June, July & August and High School students volunteer for all of July & August.

Unfortunately, no, all volunteers are required to meet the minimum time commitment as outlined for the Year-Round and Summer Student Programs.

Yes! In the Year-Round Program, volunteers are required to wear a vest and an ID badge which are provided on their first day. Volunteers would pay a fully refundable security deposit of $25 for those items.
In the Summer Program and High School Co-op Program, students are required to wear a t-shirt and ID badge which are provided on their first day. A security deposit is not required in these programs.
All volunteers and high school co-op students are required to follow a business casual dress code meaning dress pants, khakis, skirts, etc. and low-heeled, closed-toe shoes.

Of course! We recommend starting with one shift. Once you’re more familiar with the hospital and your volunteer role, you can request extra shifts.

Yes! Volunteers in the Year-Round Program may take vacations/holidays during the year. We ask that volunteers notify our office as well as their assigned department, with as much notice as possible, when they are taking time off.

The Volunteer Services Department will provide a letter of reference or confirmation of hours letter upon request for volunteers who have completed a minimum of 6 months of active service in the Year-Round Program. Volunteers in the Summer Student and High School Co-op Programs will receive a letter upon completion of each program.

Unfortunately, no, Volunteer Services does not offer shadowing opportunities.

Unfortunately, no. Volunteers who have a background in healthcare are welcome to apply, however volunteers are not allowed to perform tasks of a clinical or technical nature or develop such skills. Volunteers are expected to perform the tasks related to and within the scope of their role.

The Volunteer Services Department does not handle placements or internships at the post-secondary level. Post-secondary students would need to connect with our Professional Practice and Student Learners Department for further information and program criteria.

Volunteering may provide you with experiences that may assist you in finding employment with any organization. Employment opportunities at Humber River are handled through Human Resources and interested applicants would apply directly through the Careers section on our website.

No, volunteers receive complimentary parking while in service at the hospital.