Volunteering at St. Louis Children's Hospital Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply to become a volunteer?

The first step is to complete this online course. This information session will take roughly 45 minutes to 1 hour to complete.

What are the hospital's placement requirements?

Most volunteers contribute three to four hours each week. However, we are flexible and will try to accommodate your schedule.

When do you need volunteers?

Our greatest need for volunteers is Monday–Friday before 6 p.m. Evening and weekend volunteering at St. Louis Children's Hospital is very popular. It is also our peak time for families and friends to visit our patients. Because of this, demand for evening volunteers is not as great as our Monday – Friday day shifts.

How old do I have to be to volunteer?

Volunteers must be at least 18 years old.

I’m only interested in volunteering with babies in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Are there opportunities available?

Volunteering in the St. Louis Children's Hospital Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) as a NICU Cuddler is an advanced opportunity that is only available to our current volunteers. To be considered for placement in the NICU Cuddler program interested individuals must volunteer a minimum of 36 hours in another area before being considered for the NICU Cuddler program.

After I complete my application, how long will it be until I can start volunteering?

The process normally takes four to six weeks. As a children's hospital, it is our responsibility to ensure the safety of our patients through a thorough screening process.

I’m getting ready to complete a service project/service hours through my school. Is that the same as volunteering?

Students are accepted for service project or service hour volunteering on a case-by-case basis. Students are required to contact Volunteer Services directly at 314.454.6145 or [email protected] before submitting an application.

Can I do court ordered community service?

As an organization we do not accept volunteers with court ordered community service.

Can my group/organization/school/company come for one day and visit the children?

St. Louis Children’s Hospital appreciates your generosity; however, we are not able to accommodate group volunteering. We do offer several other opportunities that support the hospital’s mission such as fund-raising activities. For more information, contact the St. Louis Children’s Hospital Foundation, 314.286.0988.