1. What is the minimum commitment I have to make to the program?

All Adult Volunteers are required to make a minimum 6-month commitment.

All Student Volunteers are required to make a minimum commitment of 60-75 hours (based on the respective program)

2. I need to complete 40 hours of volunteer work in order to graduate.
Can I do this?

We have two separate programs available for Student Volunteers. Our School Year Program runs from September until the end of June. Our Summer Program runs during the months of July and/or August. Students are required to commit to a minimum of 60-75 hours to complete the program.

3. Can I volunteer wherever I wish?

Volunteers are placed based on vacancies that are available in the hospital, their suitability and interest. The Volunteer Services Department does not offer clinical practice, internships or observership placements.

4. Are criminal record checks required?

Yes, North York General Hospital has the responsibility to provide a safe and secure environment for its staff, patient, physicians and volunteers.

5. Do I need to wear a uniform?

Volunteers are required to wear a uniform and photo ID while on duty. A deposit of $25 is required.

6. Do I get free parking?

Registered North York General Hospital volunteers are granted parking privileges at their respective site while on duty.

7. Can I volunteer in different areas?

You can volunteer in as many placement areas as you wish. This means you may wish to volunteer in an inpatient care setting in addition to providing assistance on one of our many committees. The opportunities are endless! If you wish you may also volunteer across our sites.

8. I am medically trained and I wish to use my skills in order to gain further experience.
Can I do this as a volunteer?

We do not offer placements that enable you to practice your acquired skills. What this means is, although you have been medically trained as a nurse, doctor, physiotherapist, pharmacists, lab technician etc. you may not practice those skills as a volunteer.

9. I am a "snowbird" or I go away for school etc, does this mean I will not be permitted to volunteer?

We are an equal opportunity organization; therefore should you need to take extended periods of leave due to travel, educational commitments etc. we simply ask that you notify us of your intention to do so in order to ensure appropriate coverage in your department.

The majority of our adult volunteers take the summer months off and return in the fall.

10. I work full-time but would still like to contribute to my community, will I be considered for a volunteer position?

We do offer a number of evening positions across our sites. Please see a list of sample placements.

11. I live closer to the Branson Site, does it mean I have to come to the General Site for my interview?

We do offer interviews at our Branson Site if the location is closer to your residence. Someone from the Volunteer Services Department will contact you to arrange and interview date and time.

12. Can I submit my application directly to the Volunteer Services Department prior to the Information Session?

Since the Information Session is structured to provide you information about volunteering at our hospital, we highly recommend that you attend a session to determine if volunteering here is truly something you wish to do based on your interests and the types of opportunities we are able to offer you.