General Questions

General Volunteering Questions

• How do I become a volunteer?
  After filling out an application online and completing the required orientation modules, you will be emailed an invitation to attend an upcoming orientation/training session. Then you will complete immunization paperwork and interview with your volunteer coordinator and discuss your placement. You may then begin training and volunteering in your area.
• I submitted an application weeks ago, why has no one contacted me back?                                                                                    When you submit an application, an automated message is sent to your email immediately but we have recently found it will go directly to spam, junk, and trash folders instead of inbox. We do not know how to fix this currently and suggest looking at this folders first but if you still cannot find it, please contact volsvcs@unchealth.unc.edu to let us know. 
• I am in the process of looking for a job and my schedule is flexible right now; can I begin volunteering?
  We suggest that you concentrate on finding a job first.  Once you have secured a job, you will have a better idea of your long-term availability and can determined whether volunteering will fit into your schedule.
• I want to volunteer with my child. How can I sign up for that?
  At this time we do not have family volunteer opportunities.
• I need court-ordered community service hours. Can you sign off on those for me?
  Unfortunately, the hospital has a policy against accepting court-ordered volunteers.
• I’d like to volunteer with my friends. Can I do that?
  Yes – if volunteering 1-2 times, please refer to the group volunteer page. If you are interested in long-term volunteering, everyone involved need to apply individually, and we cannot guarantee that you will be able to volunteer together.

When and Where You Can Volunteer

• I’m only available in the evenings or on weekends; will there be anything for me to do?
  There are a few areas that can use volunteers after 5 p.m. and/or on weekends; however, the more flexible you can be the better. If you sign up for one of those areas think about how realistic it would be for you to come at night or on the weekends every week. Please check out the opportunities list for options.
• Can I volunteer where my spouse/mother/son/daughter is employed?
  No, you cannot volunteer in the same department where a relative works. You can, however, still volunteer with UNC Medical Center.
• Is there a required minimum hours per week?
  We ask that volunteers commit for at least one weekly shift for 2-4 hours/week.

Registration Questions

• Where do I park? Do I have to pay for parking?
  Long-term volunteers can obtain a parking tag to be used in the Dogwood Visitors’ Deck in Chapel Hill. We will also take care of your parking for your initial interview and for orientation. People who are employed by or enrolled in UNC, UNC Health Care, or UNC School of Medicine are not allowed to get parking passes or tags from us. The University owns and regulates the decks.  At Hillsborough, parking is free for everyone.
• I don’t know where my shot record is, what should I do?
  You should check with the your family doctor, local health department or college. If you have additional questions, feel free to contact us. 
• Who has to get the flu vaccine?
  All volunteers, new and returning, MUST have the flu vaccine in order to volunteer during flu season/spring semester (January-May). Emails and notices are sent in advance informing volunteers when and how to turn in documentation of vaccination. UNC Health’s policy is that everyone must receive a flu shot.
• Does it cost anything to be a volunteer?
  Volunteers pay for their own background checks ($15).  All volunteers must also pay for their 1st TB test.  For Community Volunteers, 2nd TB tests, flu shots, and other mandatory vaccinations are provided by Occupational Health free of charge.
• Is there a required uniform?
  Volunteers are asked to follow a dress code which includes volunteer polos or jackets. ID badges must be worn above the waist at all times.  Polos and jackets may be paired with pants/long capris or skirts that fall below the knee. Denim, shorts, and open toed-shoes are not allowed during volunteer shifts.

When You're a Volunteer

• Do I always get the volunteer position I want?
  We will try our best to place you in an area that you are interested in, but understand that with the restrictions of your availability, the number of volunteers, and the spots available in certain areas (sometimes only a handful), you may not always get your first choice (or even second). We ask that you put at least three choices on your application so we have a better chance of placing you where you want.
• I speak English and Spanish, are there jobs for me?
  Yes, our Conexiones program could be a perfect fit for you!
• How will I know what to do? Will I receive special training?
  Every volunteer goes through orientation and will receive training specific to his or her area from his or her area. Before you begin your assignment, you'll receive training at orientation for general hospital protocols, safety, and infection control. Each area has a job description that outlines duties and expectations. Once in your area, you will be given further details about your job duties; some areas have a separate training and others are on-the-job.

• I want a position that is hands-on, what can I do?
  Each job is described in the volunteer opportunities list. Other volunteer jobs involve serving behind the scenes assisting families and visitors, as well as providing staff support. There are also some jobs that are more clerical or office-related in nature.
• Can I do more than one volunteer job at a time and come more than once a week?
  Generally, we only allow new volunteers to work in one service area when they begin volunteering. Once you have become acclimated to your volunteer position, we can discuss adding additional responsibilities. Please make sure that you have enough time to properly commit to both jobs.
• Do you offer the opportunity to shadow physicians or observe in a clinical setting?
  Volunteer Services does not arrange any shadowing. Currently this program is on hold but when it restarts, interested parties must contact Hospital Departments individually to set up shadow experiences. Please read the Shadow guidelines.
• I’m a licensed CNA/RN/phlebotomist/etc... Can I volunteer in that role?
  No, you cannot volunteer in any position that requires a certification.