Volunteer
Our volunteers are an important link to the local community and a vital and highly valued addition to the Unity Health team. We believe that volunteering should be both beneficial and rewarding.
Delivering an exceptional experience is our priority at Unity Health. In order to enable this top-rated care and experience for our patients, residents and their families, we rely on the phenomenal staff, physicians, volunteers and learners within our organization.
All volunteer placements are designed to support the Mission and Values of the network and to enhance the care provided to our patients and residents by staff.
We are always looking for people who are understanding, supportive, and who want to make a real difference for fellow community members and the Unity Health Network.
Come join our team!
We thank you for your interest in volunteering with Unity Health. Learn more about the opportunities by clicking on your preferred site.
St. Joseph’s Health Centre’s volunteer program is built on the strengths of a dedicated group of people from a wide range of ages and cultural backgrounds. Volunteers make a big difference in the lives of our patients and visitors.
Motivated by their commitment to caring, our volunteers generously contribute time and energy to assist at St. Joseph’s Health Centre. Volunteers experience the many benefits of volunteering such as connecting with others and knowing that they are making a positive difference in the lives of patients.
Summer Student Volunteer Program
Thank you for your interest in the Summer Student Program. The application portal for this program is now closed and we are no longer accepting applications.
Year-round Youth and Adult Programs
St. Joseph’s Health Centre is now accepting volunteer applications for our year-round volunteer programs.
Year-round programs: The year-round program offers volunteer opportunities to interact with patients and visitors in the following capacities:
- Directing/escorting
- Gift Shop — providing customer service
- Providing patient support in waiting areas
- NOTE: Currently we do not have evening or weekend volunteer opportunities available.
Volunteer commitment: Year-round volunteers must be at least 16 years of age and able to commit to one three-hour shift weekly for a minimum of one year.
Pre-volunteering requirements for all year-round volunteers
- provide two references (not from friends or family)
- complete a two-step TB test and health screening
- provide proof of vaccination of two doses of Canadian- approved COVID-19 vaccine
- complete a criminal background check (if 18 or over)
- attend an orientation session
- attend all training sessions
- must have access to email
We offer a variety of volunteer opportunities at our St. Joseph’s site to match the needs of our patients and your interests. The majority of volunteer shifts are available Monday to Friday, between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m. Our key programs include:
Courtesy Program
- Providing information or directing patients, families and visitors
- Escorting and providing wheelchair assistance
Patient support
- Providing emotional support to patients and families in waiting areas and clinics
- Informing the health-care team of a patient’s requests
Retail opportunities – Gift Shop or Outpatient Pharmacy
- Providing ongoing customer service
- Assisting with product merchandising
Recreational support
- Music, arts and crafts, or other recreational support
- Book cart
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- After I have applied, how long do I have to wait to hear if I am accepted?
Please note that we receive applications in excess of the volunteer opportunities available. Only select applicants will be contacted to proceed to an interview. After submitting your volunteer application, you may be contacted within two to six weeks by phone or email for an interview. - What is your volunteer onboarding process?
After your interview, if you are accepted into one of our volunteer programs you will need to complete all of the additional pre-volunteering requirements including:- providing two references (not from friends or family)
- completing occupational health testing
- completing a criminal background check (if over 18)
- attending an orientation session
- providing proof of COVID-19 vaccination (minimum two doses)
- Do I need to incur the cost of the health-care screening?
If you are accepted you must complete our occupational health testing requirements. The two-step TB test requires four visits to your doctor’s office or medical clinic. Some doctors might charge for this service. St. Joseph’s Health Centre does not reimburse volunteers for any health-care screening expenses. - Do I need to incur the cost for the criminal reference check?
If you are 18 years of age or older, a criminal reference check is an additional pre-volunteering requirement. The cost of the criminal reference check is covered by the hospital. - Do I need to wear a uniform?
Yes. All volunteers are required to wear a volunteer uniform and a photo ID badge at every shift. The uniform vest requires a $30 deposit refundable at the completion of the program. - Are there COVID-19 protocols in place for volunteers?
St. Joseph’s current COVID-19 protocols include mandatory vaccination for physicians, staff and volunteers, universal masking (masks provided) as well as physical distancing guidelines. We also strongly encourage excellent hand hygiene and require staff and volunteers to stay at home when sick or symptomatic. - How old do you have to be to volunteer as a Summer Student?
The minimum age requirement is 14 years of age, along with having completed Grade 9. - Can students complete their high school 40-hour community involvement requirement?
Yes. After meeting program requirements, Volunteer Services can provide a confirmation letter of hours and sign school forms. - Can volunteers observe medical procedures or help with medical care?
No. Observing and shadowing medical staff is not considered volunteering. - I am a health-care professional, can I use my professional skills and training while volunteering?St. Joseph’s Health Centre volunteers do not provide direct patient care. All volunteers must follow the responsibilities outlined in their volunteer position description and cannot be provided with the opportunity to practice, observe or gain experience within a specific profession.
- After I have applied, how long do I have to wait to hear if I am accepted?
St. Joseph’s secondary school co-op placements provide students with work experience in a variety of areas.
Co-op placements
Each co-op student is assigned to a core placement. Students will spend the majority of their co-op time in their core placement area performing the duties outlined in the position description. Placement areas include outpatient clinics, departments and the Courtesy (wayfinding/customer service) program. In addition, co-op students participate in activities designed to support the co-op curriculum. Activities may include: tours of departments such as the blood lab; educational sessions; and skills workshops.
How to apply
In order to participate, students must be at least 16 years of age, in Grade 11 or 12 and enrolled in their school’s co-op education program. Co-op is a single semester in duration (1/2 day). Interested students must submit the following through their co-op teacher:
- Two completed teacher reference forms
- A brief resume
- Credit counselling summary (demonstrating good academic standing)
- Attendance profile (demonstrating good attendance)
Completed applications are reviewed on a continuous basis and in the order in which they are received.
Applications for 1st semester may be submitted May 1 – September 1
Applications for 2nd semester may be submitted November 1 – February 1
Applicants selected for an interview will be contacted to arrange their interview at St. Joseph’s Health Centre. Placement offers will be made on an ongoing basis. Students should apply early as placements are limited.
Mandatory pre-placement requirements for students accepted into the co-op program include:
- Complete health screening, including serology and a two-step TB test (fees incurred for testing are at the expense of the co-op student—they are not reimbursed)
- Attend orientation
- Provide a $30 refundable deposit for a uniform and photo ID badge
- Attend a tour of St. Joseph’s
- Complete a short biography (four to seven sentences) to be shared with placement supervisor
Email: VOLUNTEERS.sjhc@unityhealth.to
Phone: 416-530-6486 ext. 4490
St. Michael’s is looking for volunteers who are energetic, compassionate, dedicated and above all else focused on providing excellent customer service. Our volunteers are here to improve the experience our patients and visitors have every day.
Requirements for both adult and student volunteer programs:
Steps to becoming a volunteer include the following:
- complete an online application
- submit a resume
- submit two references (not from friends or family)
- complete a two-step TB test and a health assessment form
- provide proof of vaccination of two doses of Canadian-approved COVID-19 vaccine
- complete an online criminal background check (if 18 or over)
- complete an orientation session
- attend all training sessions
Other requirements and notes:
- You must have been a resident in Canada for at least 12 months prior to applying
- Volunteer positions at St. Michael’s do not involve academic credit, clerical or administrative assistance to units, clinical observation, or job shadowing
- Due to the customer service nature of volunteering, volunteers must have excellent communication skills, including fluency in English
- Majority of our placements occur during the weekdays
- You must have access to email
Summer student volunteer program
Volunteering is a great opportunity to grow and gain confidence, develop new skills and experience the world of health care.
Post-secondary students
The deadline for Summer 2024 Post-Secondary Volunteer Applications has passed. We are no longer accepting Post-Secondary Volunteer Applications. Please note as a university or college student you are not a candidate to apply for the adult program.
High-school students
- High-school student application submission deadline date:
WEDNESDAY, MAY 1, 2024 AT 4:30 p.m. - High-school student requirements:
- Must be enrolled in high school
- Must be at least 16 years old for all placements, with the exception of St. Michael’s Gift Shop
- Ages 14 years (with completion of Grade 9) & 15 years, will be accepted only for Gift Shop placements
- Must be available from July 2024 to end of August 2024
- Must be available for a minimum commitment of 70 hours for the entirety of the 2 months
- Must be available to commit to three to four shifts per week (1 shift = 3-4 hours)
- Application instructions
Complete the online application by clicking “HIGH-SCHOOL STUDENT – SUMMER 2024 APPLY NOW” belowWithin the online application below, ensure to upload:- A copy of your most recent resume
AND - Two completed St. Michael’s volunteer reference forms using the “St. Michael’s Volunteer Reference Form” link below.
References must be completed by two individuals, that are not friends or relatives and have known you for at least one year
- A copy of your most recent resume
Adult volunteer program
Volunteering is a great part of an active retirement with our adult program ideal for older adults as well as working professionals that love to give back to their community and students taking a year off from their studies to explore health care.
- The initial volunteer commitment for adult volunteers is a minimum of 125 hours over a one year period
- A minimum of one shift per week (3-4 hours per shift) is required
- Recruitment is ongoing and there is no deadline to apply
Application instructions:
- Complete the online application by clicking “ADULT VOLUNTEER – APPLY NOW” below
Within the online application below, ensure to upload:
- A copy of your most recent resume
AND - Two completed St. Michael’s volunteer reference forms using the “St. Michael’s Volunteer Reference Form” link below.
References must be completed by two individuals, that are not friends or relatives and have known you for at least one year
Download the St. Michael’s Volunteer Reference Form
We have a range of volunteer opportunities available at our St. Michael’s site:
Navigators
Navigators ensure that no one in the hospital is lost. They welcome, inform and escort. They can be found in locations such as our lobbies, information desks and in other high-traffic areas.
Family and visitor greeters
Family and Visitor Greeters provide support and information to visitors and families in waiting rooms, reception areas and other destinations where families seek out information.
Patient visiting
The Patient Visiting program is driven by the mandate that every patient gets a friendly visit from a volunteer every day. They visit to offer non-clinical services and support that makes a patient’s hospital stay more comfortable.
Services
Volunteers offer exceptional customer service within the network in non-clinical settings such as the St. Michael’s Hospital Gift Shop.
Partnerships
Partnership volunteers are larger groups of volunteers that assist and enable specific, structured programs that contribute to the patient and family experience. Our Patient and Family Learning Centre and Patient Food Services teams are two examples of where these types of volunteers may serve.
The co-op program at St. Michael’s is a planned learning experience that provides practical experiences in the workplace.
Goals of co-op placements
- to improve workplace skills
- to develop positive attitudes necessary to work successfully
- to explore careers in a healthcare setting
- to understand the science and technology used in modern health-care
Each co-op learner will be assign to a core placement. Each learner will spend the majority of their co-op time in their core placement area performing the duties outlined in the role definition. Placement areas include outpatient clinics, service areas, or research. In addition, co-op learners will participate in activities designed to support the co-op curriculum, subject to change each semester. Morning and afternoon co-op placement times are: 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. or 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Potential co-op placements at St. Michael’s Hospital:
| CLINICS | SERVICES | RESEARCH |
|---|---|---|
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How to apply:
Students must be at least 16 years of age, in Grade 11 or 12 and enrolled in their school’s Co-op Education Program. Co-op is a single semester in duration. Interested learners much complete the following:
- Online Co-op Learner Application (Blue button below)
- Two completed reference forms
- A resume
- Credit counselling summary
Completed applications are reviewed on a continuous basis and in the order in which they are received.
- Applications for first semester may be submitted May 1 – September 1
- Applications for second semester may be submitted November 1 – February 1
Applicants selected for an interview will be contacted to arrange an interview at St. Michael’s Hospital, in person. Placement offers will be made on an ongoing basis. Students should apply early as placements fill up quickly.
Providence isn’t just about providing excellent clinical care. It’s about enriching the lives of our patients, residents and clients by attending to their needs with thoughtfulness, understanding and sensitivity. That’s where the work of our volunteers, from students to seniors, makes a difference in the lives of so many of the people in our care.
Volunteering at Providence will help you learn new skills, build meaningful relationships and earn recognition. This compassionate service is demonstrated many ways and we offer volunteer opportunities for everyone, from students (minimum age 14 years old) to retirees.
Summer Youth Volunteer Program
We are now accepting applications to our Summer Youth Program – 2024.
Our Summer Youth Program (SYP) is a popular choice for students. This program allows students to enhance various work-related skills, work-life challenges, develop leadership qualities, complete the volunteer hours needed for school and build meaningful relationships while making a difference in the community. The experience is also very rewarding for our residents, patients and clients. Students 14-25 years of age, still attending school, may apply for the Summer Youth Program. Students should apply early as placements fill up quickly.
Summer Youth Program – Post-secondary students additional requirements:
Application deadline: Friday, March 29, 2024
- Post-secondary students who wish to volunteer, must be enrolled in a college or university undergraduate program
- Post-secondary students must commit to four months, May to end-August, three shifts per week
Summer Youth Program – High school students Additional requirements:
Application deadline: Friday, May 24, 2024
- High school summer volunteers are required to complete a minimum of 80 hours that consist of four hours/day either a morning or an afternoon shift, during the months of July and (or) August.
Summer Youth Program – Apply Now
We are always looking for people to join us. The process to become a volunteer has many steps and takes approximately 6 – 8 weeks to complete after a successful interview. These steps are in place to ensure that each volunteer is safe to begin their volunteering role and has the appropriate training to begin their role.
Requirements for volunteer programs:
- Complete the online application
- Provide a resume
- providing two references (not from friends or family)
- applicants 17 years of age and below to provide parental consent form
- providing proof of vaccination, Canadian-approved COVID-19 vaccine (as required by Providence Healthcare)
- completing a two-step TB test and health screening
- completing a vulnerable sector screening check (if 18 and over)
- attending an orientation session
- attend all training sessions
- must have access to email
Regular Adult/Youth Volunteer Program
Volunteers applying to the regular program are required to commit to a minimum of one shift per week (approx. 3-4 hours) for a minimum of one year. Applications from both adult and youth are accepted anytime of the year.
Age requirement: Our youth volunteers must be 14 years of age at the time of application and preferably completed Grade 9. The minimum age requirement for our gift shop volunteers is 16 years of age at the time of application.
Regular Volunteer Program – Apply Now
Application instructions (3 steps):
- Complete the online application by clicking “APPLY NOW”
- Submit a copy of your most recent resume
- Download the below mentioned documents, which are to be submitted, when invited for the interview:
- Two references – to be completed by two individuals, that are not friends or relatives (attach links to reference form’s provided references
- To be completed by parent/legal guardian for applicants between the ages of 14 – 17 years: parental consent form
Here are some of the volunteer opportunities available at our Providence site:
Customer service (retail sales)
- Performing point-of-sale cash register operations
- Balancing shift floats and deposits
- Replenishing store supplies in the Houses of Providence Café
- Stocking, inventory, accounting and merchandising
Friendly visiting/escorting for patients and/or residents
- Being a friend to a resident, patient, or client who may not have visitors on a regular basis by escorting them to various activities, taking them for walks or simply having a friendly chat
- Providing emotional support to patients and families
- Informing health-care team of patient’s needs
- One-on-one visiting
Activation/Recreation support (group activities)
- Assisting with and/or facilitate activities such as games, sing-a-longs, movies, arts and crafts, bowling, bingo, clowning and special events
Spiritual and religious care
- Volunteers escort residents and patients to and from the multi-denominational church services and weekly hymn sing. Other specialized positions are also available.
- How old do I have to be to volunteer?
The minimum age to volunteer at Providence Healthcare is 14 years and the minimum age requirement for Retail Sales (Houses Café) volunteer is 16 years. - Can I choose the area in which I volunteer?
Volunteers are placed according to the needs of our patients and residents as requested by staff and depend on suitability. Your preferences and availability will be discussed at your interview. - Do I need a police vulnerable sector check?
Anyone over the age of 19 must provide a current (dated within the past 6 months) Police Vulnerable Sector Check. Authorization letters for a Police Vulnerable Sector Check will be provided after a successful interview. - Can I complete my 40 hours of community involvement for my secondary school credit?
Yes, you can, however, there is a minimum commitment of 80 hours and one year of Volunteer service for the Regular program, and 80 hours for the Summer Youth program. When this commitment has been met, a “Statement of Volunteer Commitment” (STC) will be issued upon request and we will sign any school form you may have. Please note: the STC will not be issued after only completing 40 hours. - Will volunteering lead to an employment at Providence Healthcare?
Volunteering may be beneficial to your application for employment, but it will not guarantee a paid position. The application process for employment at Unity Health Toronto can be found on the website. - I am a foreign-trained professional. Am I able to volunteer these skills at Providence Healthcare?
No. Volunteers provide non-medical support for staff, patients and visitors and must only do the tasks listed on the approved volunteer position descriptions. Any tasks that a member of a licensed or regulated profession (ie: physician, pharmacist, nurse etc.) can legally perform, are not included in approved volunteer position descriptions. - I am in college/university. What happens if my schedule changes?
We suggest that you contact Volunteer Services with the changes before hand and based on availability we will do our best to accommodate your request. - How will I know if my volunteer application has been received and is being considered?
Volunteer Services reviews all applications received. Unfortunately, not all applicants will be contacted for an interview due to availability, openings and interests. After submitting your volunteer application, if you are successful you will be contacted within 2 – 4 weeks by phone or email for an interview. The interview will be about 45 minutes in length. This is where we get to know the applicant a bit better and to see what area would be a good fit for volunteering. If a match is made at the interview, the applicant will complete all of additional pre-volunteering requirements include Police Check, references and occupational health testing. The complete on-boarding process can take between 30-45 days. - Do I need to incur the cost for the 2-step TB test?
Yes. After a successful interview and on acceptance into the volunteer program, you must complete the 2-step TB test. The 2-step TB test requires four visits to your Doctor’s Office/Medical Clinic. Due to third party billing, some Doctor’s/Clinics might charge a nominal fee to fill out the form or administer the test. Providence Healthcare does not reimburse volunteers for this out-of-pocket expense. - Do I need to wear a uniform & ID badge?
Yes. All volunteers are required to wear a vest and a photo ID badge while on site. There is a $20 uniform deposit for the vest & ID badge. This refundable deposit will be given back to you as soon as you return your ID badge and your vest in re-usable condition, when you decide to leave the volunteer program.
The Co-op Volunteer Program at Providence Healthcare is a single-semester learning placement that provides practical experience in the workplace.
Goals
- Help students cultivate and improve workplace skills
- Provide opportunities for learners to explore careers in a healthcare setting
- Enhance services provided by Providence Healthcare to Patients and Residents
Description
Each Co-op student is assigned to a core placement and will spend the majority of their time performing the duties outlined in their position description. In addition, students may be asked to participate in activities designed to support the Co-op curriculum, including: tours of different departments, info and educational sessions, and skills workshops.
Potential placements
| CLINICAL | ADMINISTRATIVE | RETAIL |
|---|---|---|
Long Term Care Facility:
Rehab Hospital Clinics:
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Application process
Interested students must be at least 16 years of age, in Grade 11 or 12, enrolled in their school’s Co-op Education Program, and complete the following:
- Online Co-op Learner Application (Orange button below)
- Documents to be uploaded through the Application Portal:
- Resume
- Credit Counselling Summary (demonstrating good academic standing)
- Attendance Profile (demonstrating good attendance)
- Two (2) Reference Forms
- Reference Forms cannot be completed by family or friends
- Documents to be sent to vol.phc@unityhealth.to
- Proof of at least two (2) Canadian-approved COVID-19 vaccinations
- Parental Consent Form (for 17 years old or younger)
- Vulnerable Sector Screening check (for 18 years old and over; details to be provided at the time of the interview)
- Health Screening Form including a 2-Step TB Test (to be provided at the time of the interview; the cost of the TB tests will not be reimbursed)
Completed applications are reviewed on a continuous basis and in the order in which they are received.
- Applications for first semester may be submitted May 1 – September 1
- Applications for second semester may be submitted November 1 – February 1
Applicants selected for an in-person interview will be contacted with further details. Placement offers will be made on an ongoing basis. Students should apply early as placements fill up quickly.
Phone: 416-285-3749
Email: Vol.phc@unityhealth.to
As of April 1, 2021, St. Michael’s Foundation amalgamated with Providence Healthcare Foundation and all receipts will be issued by St. Michael’s Foundation.
We are pleased to let you know that your donation will go directly to the organization and priority that you have designated.
Last updated April 10, 2024