MultiCare Health System

How to Become a Volunteer

Volunteers are a unique and critical part of MultiCare’s health care team. MultiCare values the dedication and many hours of service our volunteers provide each year.

Our program provides volunteer support to three hospitals; Tacoma General, Allenmore and Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital as well as a number of clinics and medical offices in two counties including MultiCare Gig Harbor Medical Park and Covington MultiCare Clinic.

We are excited to meet with you to explore volunteer opportunities which best meet your interest and goals. Health care volunteering is highly regulated and includes a very involved process in order to assure the safety of both the patients we serve and the volunteers we esteem. Below you will find the answers to frequently asked questions. Please feel free to call us at 253-403-1005 should you desire more information.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a minimum age?
Volunteers must be at least 15 years of age. Many of our inpatient units require that volunteers are 18-21 years of age.

Is there a required commitment?
Yes, MultiCare asks for a routine monthly commitment for at least three to six months.

Is there an application process?
Yes, please refer to the volunteer application for details.

What opportunities are available to me as a volunteer?
We have numerous volunteer opportunities. We enjoy finding just the right volunteer position that aligns with your interest and availability. The array of volunteer opportunities will be presented at the time of a volunteer interview.

How soon can I start?
The detailed process to become a health care volunteer provides you, our patients and guests of MultiCare a safer and healthier environment. We will assist you in joining our volunteer team as quickly as possible. An outline of steps to bring you aboard is provided below for your reference.

The process is individualized, and could potentially take two to four weeks.

MultiCare Volunteer Process:

Please complete the volunteer application and complete the following process:

  • ­ Complete and return an application

  • Upon receipt of your application you will receive an announcement letting you know your application was received.

  • The application includes permissions for us to conduct a criminal background check.

  • Within 10-14 days of receiving your application you will be contacted by a Volunteer Coordinator to arrange for an interview to explore your interest, skills, desires and availability.

  • You may be asked to complete a second interview with the department in which you chose to volunteer.

  • You will be asked to locate any evidence of immunity to Measles Mumps and Rubella as well as Chicken Pox in order to complete a health screening.

  • You will be scheduled to attend a three hour volunteer orientation.  We offer both morning and evening sessions monthly.

  • Following the orientation we will ask you to complete a health exam to include review of child hood immunizations and a screening for Tuberculosis. The exam is provided free of charge by our Employee Health Department. Employee Health clears volunteers to begin their first day.

  • Upon completion of the health exam. Your first volunteer shift will be scheduled for you with the Volunteer Coordinator.  You will be escorted to the department and introduced to staff.

  • A designated staff person will train you in the tasks aligned with your volunteer role.

How far that little candle throws his beams!

So shines a good deed in a weary world.

~William Shakespeare