Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I volunteer?

Everyone has a different motivation for contributing their time; from giving back, to learning a new skill, to meeting new people. Benefits of volunteering at Woodhull include:

• Improving your soft skills and gaining experience in a moderate to fast paced professional environment,
• Contributing to a compassionate patient environment,
• Meeting other community residents who share your passion for improving neighborhood services and care
• Receiving a certificate of recommendation for a minimum of 150 hours of completed services.

Is there minimum time commitment for most volunteer assignments?

We ask for a minimum of three months for most of our programs and some assignments may require a slightly longer commitment. We recommend three sessions per week; each session consisting of three hours.

What is the process for becoming a volunteer and how long does the process take?

Once you have completed the application packet, call us at 718-963-8077 to schedule an appointment to review your documents and conduct an interview that will help us determine placement options.

On your appointment day, we will conduct a placement interview; submit your background check; and schedule an appointment for the medical assessment and drug/alcohol screening at Woodhull Occupational Health Services. It may take between three-six weeks to receive all the clearances that are required before you can start volunteering.

You will then be notified via email of acceptance into our program. Your placement within a department or program will be confirmed and you will be notified of the official start date and scheduled for a hospital orientation.

Why are health assessments, background checks, and drug/alcohol screenings required?

Woodhull is required to ensure the safety and well-being of its patients, visitors, and staff. These types of checks assist in securing a safe environment for all.

What is the age requirement to become a volunteer?

Volunteers must be at least 18 years of age.

Can I volunteer wherever I want in the hospital?

All assignments depend upon the needs of the various hospital departments and programs. Volunteers are placed according to hospital needs and volunteers’ skills and capabilities. If you have a specific area of interest please let us know during the interview process.

Can I volunteer so I can shadow clinical and/or nonclinical staff?

Currently, Woodhull Volunteer Services does not offer shadowing opportunities.