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Examples of Volunteer Placements
- Providing assistance in instructional and recreational programs, either during the day or in the evening in the swimming pool areas.
- Spending time with young patients, providing companionship or assisting with therapy programs in various units of The Hospital.
- Acting as a classroom aid, fulfilling a variety of needs in The Day School.
- Assisting in the pediatric physical, occupational or speech therapy departments. This is a great opportunity for college students studying special education. Volunteers may help with everything from programming computers to working hands on with the children.
- Providing essential clerical services in various departments throughout The Children's Institute. Some volunteers prefer not to interact directly with the children, but still want to contribute. They provide valuable support services that keep The Children’s Institute running smoothly.
Volunteer Requirements
- At least 14 years of age
- Willingness to commit three months of service, one day per week for at least three hours.
- Desire to give of your time and talents to our programs
- Criminal history check and child abuse clearance (for those over 18 years of age)
- Readiness to have a meaningful and rewarding experience
Orientation
Volunteers go through an orientation and training session. They are given a handbook of rules and regulations and a competency quiz to ensure their commitment and acceptance of the volunteering requirements.
- Volunteers are trained in the department where they will work. They are given specific information regarding the individual needs of children and therapies with which they will be working.
- Volunteers receive a free hot lunch or dinner, depending on their shift. All volunteers are encouraged to participate in special workshops that are offered to staff members. They also may attend special events, such as lectures by guest speakers.
- All volunteer hours are logged; and if a service report is required (for college students), one can be provided. Students also may request a letter of recommendation when their commitment is fulfilled.
- As a volunteer, personal benefits include satisfaction of a job well done, social interaction, the fulfillment of making an important contribution to a child with special needs and a wonderful feeling of accomplishment — of really making a difference in someone’s life.
Becoming a Volunteer
Once someone has decided to commit a regular part of their time and talents to The Children's Institute, it’s time for us to see where those talents can be put to the best use. You should contact the Community Resources and Training department and schedule an appointment for an interview where you’ll learn in more detail about the available opportunities and whether you have the unique qualifications for serving in a specific area.
Contact Information
Anyone interested in volunteering should call the Student and Volunteer Inquiry Line at 412.420.2228. The Community Resources and Training Coordinator will check the inquiry line at designated times during the week. You should receive a return call from her within 1-3 business days of leaving your message. At that time, he/she can tell you where and what times volunteers are needed, and if something sounds like a good match, she can schedule an interview for you with Amy Haid, director of Community Resources and Training.
