University Of Iowa Hospital & Clinics

Volunteer details

Each year, more than 1,300 very special people donate their time, efforts and talents to help improve the experiences of our patients and their families. These dedicated people provide the foundation for the success of Volunteer Services at UI Hospitals and Clinics and UI Stead Family Children’s Hospital. Over 100,000 hours are donated annually, valued at over $2 million. For more information about volunteer opportunities at this hospital, visit the University Of Iowa Hospital & Clinics volunteer website.

Volunteer programs

Cherished Portraits; Email a Patient; Furry Friends; Memories Videos

Volunteer placements & services

Cancer Information Service; General Support Services; Inpatient Units; Outpatient Clinics; Patients' Library; Project Art; Rehabilitation Therapy; Ronald McDonald House of Iowa City; Tutoring; Volunteer Services

Application process

Steps to Becoming a Community/Staff Volunteer: Community volunteers must be at least 16 years old. If you are 14 years old or have completed the 8th grade by June 1, consider our Junior Volunteer program. Attend a two-hour orientation session from 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 13. Call our office at 319-356-2515 for more information. Complete an PDF application form and bring it to orientation, or you will receive an application at the session. The application contains a confidential reference form which must be completed on your behalf, returned in an envelope with a signature over the seal, and submitted along with your application. You may submit your application without including your reference; however, the reference must be in our office before your application is considered complete. Applications are not considered complete unless the back of the envelope is signed and until the reference letter is attached to your application in our office. Professional references preferred. Please do not use relatives or personal physicians for your reference letter. Participate in a health screening (similar to the process our staff members go through for patient contact) and sign a background check consent form. The screening and check are performed at no cost to you. We require a six-month commitment. Interview with a Volunteer Services staff member. Volunteer 10 hours in the Volunteer Services Office to gain exposure to University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics and learn about our program. Office hours must be completed during regular business hours, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Select a placement location, where you will interview with the volunteer supervisor for a position in that department.