Questions about volunteering?

Get quick answers to your questions about volunteer opportunities, locations and application requirements with these informative frequently asked questions (FAQ).

General

What kind of volunteer opportunities are available at Aurora Health Care?

Volunteers fill a variety of critical positions throughout our hospitals and clinics. Some of these positions involve direct interaction with our patients, while others enhance the patient experience from behind the scenes.

Some of our most sought-after volunteer positions include:

• Serving as a patient ambassador or guide
• Bringing freshly-baked cookies to patients and visitors
• Greeting patients at reception
• Sharing music and art with patients
• Providing comfort as a patient companion

We offer many kinds of volunteer opportunities. Let us know which ones interest you when you apply to volunteer by following the link at the top right of this page.

Which volunteer positions are available at the location nearest me?

The hospitals and clinics that participate in our volunteer program have a variety of volunteer positions available at any given time.

When you apply to become a volunteer, be sure to indicate which location and volunteer opportunities you’re most interested in. We’ll do our best to find a strong match between your interests and our needs.

You’ll also get more specific information about the types of available positions during your volunteer orientation and onboarding.

Do you have NICU assistant (baby-holding) volunteer positions?

Yes! We’re currently looking to fill NICU Assistant positions at some of our Aurora locations. This position might involve baby holding as well as other vital tasks and responsibilities within the NICU. Be sure to indicate your interest in the NICU on your application form.

Is there a waiting list to become an NICU assistant?

Depending on the volunteer location, there may be a waiting list to volunteer in the NICU.

If there’s a wait to volunteer at your preferred NICU location, it’s a good idea to get started in another position at that hospital. That way, you’ll develop relationships with caregivers and be first to know when a NICU assistant position becomes available.

I only have to complete a certain number of hours for my school or church volunteer requirement. Can I serve only that many hours?

We ask Aurora volunteers to commit to a minimum of 64 hours of service. This ensures our patients get optimum care from experienced, committed volunteers. The good news is that many of our volunteers find it easy, fast, and fun to fulfill the minimum hours requirement. We will do our best to take into account special circumstances when it comes to commitment of hours.

How can my pet and I become pet therapy volunteers?

• Make sure your pet is certified. Examples of some certifying centers are Therapy Dogs International and Pets Helping People.
• Provide proof of pet insurance and annual rabies vaccinations.
• Provide proof of liability insurance.

Include your interest in pet therapy on your volunteer application so we can share more specific information about getting started.

Application

How can I apply to become a volunteer?

There are two ways to apply to become a volunteer at Aurora:

Complete our online application form. Follow the link at the top right of this page to begin the application process.

• Be sure to fill out the form completely so we can process your application quickly and accurately.
• If you require a paper version, please call the volunteer department of the Aurora hospital you would like to volunteer at and the volunteer leadership team will assist you.

What is the age requirement for volunteering?

The minimum age for volunteering varies between 14 and 15 years old based on the facility and/or position. Aurora Psychiatric Hospital and our hospice programs require a minimum age of 18. When we place you in a volunteer position, we’ll take your age, preferred location, and interests into account.

How many hours do I have to commit to?

We ask Aurora volunteers commit to a minimum of 64 hours of service. And with so many ways to get involved, you’ll be surprised at how quick and easy it is to meet this minimum.

How many hours do I have to volunteer each week?

Most Aurora volunteers agree to two to four hours per week. Some do even more!

Can I volunteer more than the required amount?

Absolutely! Depending on the available hours at your volunteer location, you may be able to volunteer as many hours as you wish.

What's the difference between volunteer orientation and onboarding?

Your volunteer orientation gives you a general overview of the Aurora Health Care System and the policies of our volunteer programs and is completed online.

Your volunteer onboarding will give you location-specific information about the hospital or clinic where you wish to volunteer. This is also when you will discuss your position and availability.

Health screenings

Which immunizations are required for Aurora Health Care volunteers?

The Aurora Health Care volunteer program requires all volunteers to be vaccinated with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMRA) vaccine and receive the flu shot during flu season.

• We will need proof of your MMRA vaccination. If you don’t have a record of this but were born in the state of Wisconsin, check the Wisconsin Immunization Registry& to obtain a copy of your vaccination records.
• If you’re volunteering at a hospital or clinic during the fall or winter, you’ll need to get a flu vaccine. We’ll provide you with more information about this at your volunteer interview.

When and where should I get a tuberculosis (TB) test?

If you haven’t already had a TB test, you’ll get one during the volunteer application process.

• Typically you’ll get tested after your orientation or around the time of your interview.
• Part of the testing process will involve completing paperwork about your medical history and filling out a TB test form.
• You’ll get more information about where to go to get your TB test from the volunteer coordinator of your specific hospital or clinic. Luckily, many of our volunteer locations have ACL lab service centers, which offer TB testing.

Have more questions about volunteering?

Contact our volunteer coordinators with any other questions.

Make a difference. Apply to become an Aurora volunteer by following the link at the top right of this page.

Find a volunteer location that’s convenient and close to home.