Volunteers are an integral part of Akron Children's. We love our volunteers! Their commitment makes a difference every day in the lives of our patients, families and staff.
Our Mission, Vision and Promises
Our Mission
To improve the health of children, teenagers and young adults through excellence in patient care, education, research, advocacy and community partnerships.Our Vision
Akron Children's will be the most trusted, inclusive and accessible pediatric health system in the communities we serve.Our Promises
- To treat every child as we would our own.
- To treat others as they would like to be treated.
- To turn no child away for any reason.
Volunteer Positions
Volunteers help patients and families in many ways, including reading, entertaining, baking cookies bedside, providing creative distractions for patients, and more.
Adult, Student & Teen Applications
Volunteer applications:
Shadowing
Shadow applications must be submitted at least three weeks prior to the requested date. Please complete the following actions to submit a shadow request:
- Contact and receive permission from the department where you will be shadowing.
- Upon approval of your shadow request from the department, Volunteer Services will contact you with next steps to apply.
Doggie Brigade Volunteer
Since 1992, the Doggie Brigade , sponsored by Milk Bone , has brought joy, comfort and wagging tails to patients at Akron Children's. These four-legged volunteers tour the hallways, visit patients in their rooms and stop in the activity rooms to see children who would like a visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
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How many hours can I volunteer?
Most volunteers complete a 3-4 hour shift one day per week. -
How old do I need to be?
Our teen program begins at 16 years of age. -
If I apply, am I automatically accepted?
Volunteering depends on positions open at the time of interview. Acceptance is also pending reference checks and immunizations requirements. -
If I apply, how long before I can begin volunteering?
The process of becoming a volunteer will vary from person to person depending on how quickly an applicant completes the requirements as well as position availability. -
What are the dress code requirements?
We supply a volunteer smock or polo for you to wear. Volunteers must wear their name badge, pants/skirts (no jeans or leggings) and closed-toe shoes. -
What immunizations are required?
- Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR vaccine)
- Tdap or Td
- Hepatitis B
- PPD Mantoux test
- Varicella (chickenpox)
- Flu (Only during flu season)