Volunteers are the heart of Olive View-UCLA Medical Center, contributing significantly to our mission of providing compassionate and exceptional patient care. Every year, dedicated individuals contribute thousands of hours, playing a vital role within our healthcare team. If you are seeking a meaningful way to give back to your community, develop valuable skills, and explore potential healthcare careers, consider joining our volunteer program. Volunteering offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in a hospital environment, directly impact patient well-being, and gain experience in areas like patient care and radiology.
Make a Meaningful Difference Through Volunteering
Volunteering is more than just donating time; it’s about making a tangible difference in the lives of others. At Olive View-UCLA Medical Center, our volunteers are integral to enhancing the patient experience. Whether it’s providing comfort to patients, assisting staff with essential tasks, or offering support in various departments, your contribution as a volunteer will be deeply valued and impactful. Many individuals find immense personal satisfaction in helping those in need, and volunteering in a hospital setting provides a uniquely rewarding experience.
Benefits of Joining Our Volunteer Programs
Choosing to volunteer at Olive View-UCLA Medical Center offers a multitude of benefits, both personally and professionally:
- Gain Real-World Healthcare Experience: Volunteering provides invaluable exposure to diverse healthcare careers. For individuals considering a future in medicine, nursing, radiology technology, or other allied health professions, this experience offers a firsthand look into the daily operations of a hospital. Colleges and universities highly regard volunteer experience in healthcare when evaluating applications for related programs.
- Professional Development: Develop and refine essential skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and empathy – all highly transferable and valuable in any career path. You’ll gain confidence and learn to navigate a professional environment.
- Explore Career Pathways in Patient Care and Radiology: Our volunteer opportunities span various departments, allowing you to explore specific areas of interest, including patient care units and radiology. This hands-on experience can help you solidify your career goals and make informed decisions about your future.
- Community Impact: Take an active role in strengthening your community by supporting a vital healthcare institution. Your service directly contributes to the well-being of patients and their families in the Los Angeles area.
- Personal Enrichment: Experience the profound satisfaction of helping others and making a positive impact. Volunteering can boost your sense of purpose, reduce stress, and enhance your overall well-being.
- Practical Perks: Enjoy benefits such as a complimentary meal ticket for shifts exceeding four hours, invitations to medical center events including volunteer banquets and holiday celebrations, and access to discount tickets for theme parks, sporting events, and other attractions through the March of Dimes coordinator. Volunteers also have access to free health and wellness programs offered at the medical center.
Diverse Volunteer Opportunities in Patient Care and Beyond
We offer a wide array of volunteer opportunities across various departments, ensuring a good fit for diverse interests and skills. While specific roles may vary based on the hospital’s current needs, common volunteer placements include:
- Patient Care Units: Provide comfort and support to patients and their families, assist with wheelchair transport upon discharge, deliver reading materials, and run errands for staff. These roles offer direct patient interaction and contribute to a more comfortable and supportive healing environment.
- Radiology Department: Assist staff with clerical tasks, patient scheduling, and preparation of patients for imaging procedures. While not directly involved in medical procedures, volunteers in radiology play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth operation of the department and patient flow. This is an excellent opportunity for those specifically interested in radiology to learn more about the field.
- Clinics and Information Desks: Provide directions and information to visitors, assist with patient registration, and offer general support to clinic staff. These roles are essential for creating a welcoming and efficient environment for patients and visitors.
- Emergency Room: Assist staff with non-clinical tasks, provide comfort to patients and families in stressful situations, and help maintain a calm and organized environment.
- Pharmacy: Assist pharmacy staff with administrative tasks, stock supplies, and help prepare medications for dispensing under the supervision of pharmacy technicians or pharmacists.
- Surgical Areas (Recover Room, Same Day Surgery): Support nursing staff in preparing patient rooms, assisting with patient transport, and providing comfort to patients in the pre- and post-operative phases.
- Other Departments: Opportunities may also be available in Neurology, ICU, Nursing Administration, Medical Records, Pediatrics, Cardiology, Labor & Delivery, Dietary, and Urgent Care.
We strive to match your interests and skills with available opportunities to ensure a fulfilling and valuable volunteer experience.
Steps to Become a Valued Volunteer
Becoming a volunteer at Olive View-UCLA Medical Center involves a straightforward application process:
- Online Application: Complete the online volunteer application form available on our website. This initial step provides us with your basic information and areas of interest.
- Interview: Upon review of your application, you will be invited to an interview with the Volunteer Director. This interview is an opportunity for us to learn more about your motivations, skills, and availability, and for you to ask any questions you may have about the program.
- Live Scan (Background Check): You will be directed to schedule a Live Scan appointment with the Volunteer Office for a background check. This is a standard procedure to ensure patient safety and maintain a secure environment.
- Tuberculosis (TB) Testing: Once your Live Scan clearance is received, you will schedule an appointment for TB testing through our Employee Health services. This is a standard health screening requirement for all volunteers.
- Orientation: After completing the necessary clearances and receiving your ID badge, you will be invited to a mandatory 90-minute orientation session. This session provides essential information about hospital policies, procedures, safety guidelines, and volunteer expectations.
- Placement Meeting: Finally, you will meet with the Volunteer Director to discuss your placement in a specific department based on your interests, skills, and hospital needs.
Please note that the entire application process, from initial application to starting your volunteer service, can take approximately 2-4 weeks to complete. We appreciate your patience and understanding as we ensure all necessary clearances are obtained.
Who Can Volunteer? We Welcome You!
We encourage individuals from diverse backgrounds and age groups to apply for our volunteer programs. We have opportunities for both adults and young adults:
Adult Volunteers:
- Must be 18 years of age or older.
- Must have a sincere interest in volunteering and a desire to help others in a hospital setting.
- Commit to a minimum of 100 hours of service over a 6-month period, with a minimum 4-hour shift per week.
- Must successfully pass a background check (Live Scan).
- Must provide immunization records and clear TB testing through Employee Health.
- Attend a mandatory 90-minute orientation.
- Complete all clearances and begin volunteering within 30 days of application.
- Be willing to commit to a mutually agreed-upon schedule with the Director of Volunteers.
Junior Volunteers:
- Must be 14-17 years of age.
- Must be currently enrolled in school.
- Share a genuine interest in volunteering in a hospital environment.
- Commit to a minimum of 100 hours of service over a 6-month period, with a minimum 4-hour shift per week.
- Application requires a signature from a parent or guardian.
- Parental consent is required for the background check (Live Scan).
- Must provide immunization records and clear TB testing through Employee Health.
- Attend a mandatory 90-minute orientation.
- Complete all clearances and begin volunteering within 30 days of application.
- Be willing to commit to a schedule created in collaboration with the Director of Volunteers.
Join our dedicated team of volunteers at Olive View-UCLA Medical Center and experience the profound rewards of giving back while gaining valuable experience in patient care and radiology. Apply today and start your journey of making a difference!
