Volunteers

About Volunteers

Volunteers are the heartbeat of California’s hospitals, working tirelessly to help hospitals run smoothly — staffing gift shops, answering phones, working together with staff, and more. The California Volunteer Leadership Network connects volunteer leaders, administrators, and other community representatives throughout the state. Together, network members help shape policies and standards for volunteer activities in hospitals and health systems.

Hospital Volunteers Are the Human Connection to Healing

Early in my career I was a hospital volunteer. As a pre-med student at the University of Arizona, I volunteered for hundreds of hours in the emergency department and hospice unit at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Tucson, Ariz. It was an extraordinary experience that opened my eyes to the compassion and caring that volunteers bring to hospitals. I also saw firsthand the challenges that clinicians face every day. My time as a volunteer enhanced my appreciation of the health care system at a key point early in my career. I was inspired to continue helping people.

A Week Dedicated to Recognizing Our Volunteers

Often, when people think about the work done at hospitals, it’s the doctors, nurses, and other clinical staff who come to mind. While their work is vitally important — often lifesaving — volunteers and volunteer leaders are also an integral part of the hospital environment.