Volunteer Services
Due to a recent influx of submissions, we have temporarily paused new volunteer applications. We will provide more information here when we are able to resume.
Volunteering is reflected in many ways – from one-to-one visits to aiding patients and visitors with hospital information and wayfinding, to working in the library or helping out with special events. A diverse group of nearly 700 volunteers support many clinical and non-clinical areas at our five sites. St. Joseph’s is grateful to our many volunteers who play a key role in enhancing the patient, resident, visitor and staff experience at St. Joseph’s.
Through proceeds from the gift shops and other initiatives, volunteers raise much needed dollars to purchase hospital capital equipment and to support patient events.
You can make a difference too
At St. Joseph’s, volunteers make a difference in the lives of others every day. From spending time with war heroes, to helping seniors gain independence, to lending a compassionate ear – we are grateful for the vital support they provide to our patients, residents and staff. You can make a difference too. Watch the the following video and learn about the benefits of becoming a St. Joseph's Volunteer.
Would you like to volunteer with us?
St. Joseph’s is not currently recruiting for various volunteer positions across the organization. If you have a specific area or program that interests you, please let us know when our application process resumes.
Contact Us
Volunteer Services
St. Joseph’s Health Care London
PO Box 5777, Stn B
London, ON N6A 4V2
@email
519-646-6100 ext. 44050
Requirements for St. Joseph’s Health Care volunteers:
- We welcome volunteers aged 14 and older at all times throughout the year. Volunteers may also request to work the same volunteer shift with a family member or friend.
- A Vulnerable Persons Police Check is a requirement if you choose to volunteer at Mount Hope Centre for Long-Term Care or in volunteer roles with our Speech Pathology Department or ConnectCare. A letter can be obtained from our Volunteer Services Department prior to applying for your police check. Applicants are financially responsible for paying for their own police check.
- Health documentation will be required by all applicants prior to starting their placement
- Applicants are asked to wait to hear by email or phone from our Occupational Health & Safety Services Department regarding required health documents. When contacted, they will be required to submit the following by email:
- 2-step TB test
- Proof of immunity to measles, mumps, varicella, rubella (yellow immunization card, if available)
- COVID-19 vaccination (3 doses of the vaccine are required to volunteer at Mount Hope)
- Successful candidates may be able to have outstanding immunizations, including TB testing and immunity testing, completed by our Occupational Health & Safety Services Department (this can be discussed with Occupational Health & Safety Services staff)
- Volunteers should be prepared to work one shift per week (unless other arrangements have been made with Volunteer Services or placement area)
- We are flexible regarding shifts and time off for exams, vacation, snowbirds will be granted
- Shifts are typically three to four hours in length on weekdays prior to 6 pm. There are limited evening and weekend shifts available, please speak to Volunteer Services.
- We ask for a commitment of a minimum of six months
St. Joseph’s seeks volunteers who value people-centred care and are committed to enhancing the patient experience
Volunteer Services offices are open Monday to Friday from 8 am to 4 pm at all five St. Joseph’s Health Care London sites. The offices are closed on all statutory holidays and weekends.
Voices of volunteers
Mary's volunteer story
With a father who served in Korean War and received care at St. Joseph’s Parkwood Institute, Mary Gillet knew that volunteering as a bartender in our Veteran Care Program would be meaningful to both the war heroes she serves, and her family.
Karen's volunteer story
Needing a break for the corporate world, Karen Van Diepen now volunteers her time in the variety store at the Finch Family Mental Health Care Building. Offering her time, talents and a compassionate smile to patients and staff who visit the shop – she makes a difference in the lives of others.
Zuhayr's volunteer story
As a health sciences student at Western University, Zuhayr Kahn enjoys volunteering with a population he may one day serve. Zuhayr’s experience working with older adults at Mount Hope is helping prepare him for the future and making a difference for residents.
Patty's volunteer story
After receiving exceptional care as a patient in St. Joseph's Breast Care Centre, Patricia Mowry knew she wanted to volunteer and give back. Helping others feel more comfortable - and understanding what they may be going through - helps patients feel more at ease.
Current volunteer opportunities
Appointment Assistant
Provide support and assistance to patients from the time they enter the building until their appointment is complete. Escort the patient to the clinic, wait for the patient in the designated waiting area, escort the patient back to the entrance and assist with calling transportation or wait with the patient until their ride arrives.
Information Desk Volunteers
Greet all patients and visitors upon arrival, assist patients and visitors by providing wayfinding directions to clinical areas or units, answer questions about facility or parking, contact appropriate staff member by phone, as questions arise.
Gift shop
Are you looking for a meaningful way to give back to our community? We are looking for pleasant and personable individuals to join our great team. No cash experience is needed and all training is provided. We are flexible with your availability and gift shops are located across St. Joseph's sites.
Pet visitation
You will bring in your fully vaccinated pet, who has completed at minimum a level 1 training, and visit with patients on a unit. Patients will play with and interact with your pet. Help is needed in this capacity at all St. Joseph's sites.
ConnectCare installer
You will be assisting our clients in the community with the installation of their ConnectCare medical alert button system at Parkwood Institute Main Building.
Visiting volunteer
Location: Parkwood Institute Mental Health Care Building and Mount Hope Centre for Long Term Care
You will be assigned to a unit where you will visit and engage with patients experiencing mental illness, and assist the recreation therapy staff with off-unit excursions and activities as needed.
High school students
St. Joseph’s Health Care London is committed to mentoring tomorrow's health care professionals today.
We offer Co-operative Education Placements to secondary education students from the Thames Valley District School Board and the London Catholic School Board. Interested high school students should contact their Co-operative Education Teacher responsible for this program for further information.
Volunteer Services works with the school boards to arrange these exciting opportunities for students in our community. Co-operative students are accepted during the fall and winter semesters.