High School Volunteer Program – Why Volunteer at RVH?
Volunteering is a great way to gain experience and develop new skills, meet new people and establish connections and references. Many post secondary programs are looking for applicants who are well-rounded individuals who have volunteered to make a difference in their communities. As a student volunteer you can also apply for an RVH Auxiliary Student Scholarship, awarded annually to two volunteers entering their first year of college or university. There are also other awards that recognize exceptional volunteers.
What is the Time Commitment Required?
The high school student volunteer program is very competitive as we have a limited number of after school and weekend positions. We look for students who are able to maintain high attendance even during exams and school holidays. On the same day and time each week, for a minimum of 75 hours, students must commit to one shift for a minimum of six months. This shift usually amounts to three or four hours. No forms or references will be completed prior to the completion of 75 hours.
Is There a Minimum Age or Grade to Volunteer?
Students must be entering grade 11. Students can contact us towards the end of their grade 10 year to let us know they are interested. We have student volunteers in grade 11, 12 and beyond.
Volunteer Opportunities
Café Royale
The Café Royale serves a varied menu including gourmet coffee, and chai teas as well as fresh baked desserts. There is also a breakfast and lunch menu that includes daily specials. Volunteers assist staff with preparing coffee, stocking supplies, sales and customer service.
Emergency Department
The Emergency Department consists of various areas such as triage area, trauma, acute and minor exam. Volunteers enhance the patient experience and assist with patient flow through their interaction with patients, assisting with patient transportation and various other duties.
Hospital Elder Life Program
The Hospital Elder Life Program is a program of care designed to prevent delirium and functional decline in hospitalized elderly patients. Volunteers provide bedside visits with friendly conversation, assistance with meal set up, range of motion exercises and walking short distances.
Information Desk
There are three Information Desks that are the first point of contact for patients, visitors and the general public. Volunteers greet and provide directions throughout the Health Centre, provide wheelchair assistance and delivery of items as needed.
Victoria’s Gift Shop
Victoria’s Gift Shop products include clothing, home décor, custom chocolates, baby items, flowers and more. Volunteers assist in the day-to-day operation in a professional manner utilizing customer service skills when dealing with the public in a retail setting.
High School Co-op Program
High School Co-Operative Education is a unique program that integrates academic study with practical workplace experience which helps students make more informed career choices. We work in partnership with local school boards to seek health centre placements, recruit applications, screen, interview and place students, and provide an orientation and ongoing support throughout the semester.
Students interested in learning about co-op opportunities at RVH should contact their co-operative education department at their high school.
Post Secondary Summer Student Volunteers
A limited number of volunteer positions are available over the summer months for students enrolled in post secondary education. A volunteer application will only be accepted from January 1st to April 21st. Interviews will be conducted on a first come first served basis.
If selected for an interview, students must be available in May for both an interview and orientation.
Students must commit to 1 shift per week, completing a minimum of 60 hours and be available for the duration of the summer from June 1st to August 31st.