Volunteer in Indianapolis

Thank you for your interest in the Volunteer Program at Indiana University Health.

Indianapolis locations include:

  • IU Health Methodist Hospital
  • IU Health University Hospital
  • IU Health Melvin & Bren Simon Cancer Center
  • Riley Hospital for Children at IU Health
  • IU Health Neuroscience Center

Volunteer Opportunities

The volunteer application process may include multiple trips to our downtown Indianapolis location before you can actually begin your volunteer experience. Please look over the FAQs below to determine which IU Health Indianapolis location is best for you.

Volunteers are assigned a location where their talents are utilized to best serve the overall need of our patients and guests. Position availability varies.

Volunteer Opportunities at IU Health Hospitals - Indianapolis Locations

Volunteers are one of Indiana University Health’s most valued resources. Currently, more than 1,300 volunteers give their time and talents to IU Health facilities in the downtown Indianapolis area. Volunteers provide comfort and assistance to patients and families throughout the healing process.

Volunteers work directly with patients and families, as well as behind the scenes, and strive to provide highly valued service and a positive patient experience. The environment is caring and healing, fostering a sense of trust and respect. Volunteers also enjoy the opportunity to establish new friendships, develop new skills and experience training opportunities, all while making a difference in the lives of others.

The following is a partial list of available service opportunities:

  • Administrative/Clerical
  • Inpatient and Outpatient
  • Spiritual
  • Cancer Center Resource Center
  • Pet Therapy/Pet Visitation Program
  • Hospice (Must complete hospice training program)
  • Sewing /Knitting Groups
  • Patient-Visitor Hospitality Cart
  • Flower and Mail Delivery
  • Customer Service
  • Greeter
  • Coffee Service Greeter
  • Newborn Intensive Care (NICU) – Limited opportunities are available at NICU units. Eligibility requirements apply. Volunteers must complete service requirements at an entry-level unit prior to a NICU placement.
  • Off-Site placements available

Gifts of Service and One-Time Service Projects

Service Project opportunities are open to groups whose members are over the age of 18. For more details, please contact Volunteer Services at 317.962.0940.

Application

Complete the online form to apply for the IU Health Volunteer Program

For More Information

For questions, contact the IU Health department of Volunteer Services in Indianapolis at 317.962.0940.

Who can volunteer?

Applicants over the age of 18 who can meet our requirements. Summer opportunities may be available for students ages 14 and 17.

What are the time commitments?

Traditional volunteers are asked to make a commitment of 80 service hours. Students are asked to commit to a minimum of 50 service hours. Volunteer shifts are typically scheduled as a four-hour shift per week. Volunteers are asked to complete their initial assignments before requesting a change in assignment.

What is the process to become a volunteer?

Prospective volunteers must complete an application. Upon receipt of the application, Volunteer Services will send an email explaining the next steps.

  • Interview
  • Health Screen
  • Background Check – Form completed at interview
  • Orientation

Do volunteers wear a uniform?

Yes. Volunteers are required to wear red uniform jackets. All volunteers are required to dress in business casual attire. Specifically, khaki or black slacks and black shoes.

Can I volunteer in more than one area?

Yes. Once a volunteer has mastered details pertaining to their first assigned area and completed their initial commitment of hours, an additional or new service area may then be requested.

What can I expect at the volunteer orientation?

A Volunteer Handbook is provided to each volunteer. The handbook provides detailed information about the volunteer program such as policies and guidelines like those on infection control, environmental safety and patient confidentiality/HIPAA. First-day orientation will consist of a one-on-one meeting to review handbook content and facility details.

Additionally, volunteers receive training at each newly assigned area. Training will include basic workplace instructions as well as unit-specific information.

Where do I park?

Parking is available at various designated IU Health lots located near each hospital and provided at no cost to the volunteer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can volunteer?

Applicants over the age of 18 who can meet our requirements. Summer opportunities may be available for students ages 14 and 17.

What are the time commitments?

Traditional volunteers are asked to make a commitment of 80 service hours. Students are asked to commit to a minimum of 50 service hours. Volunteer shifts are typically scheduled as a four-hour shift per week. Volunteers are asked to complete their initial assignments before requesting a change in assignment.

What is the process to become a volunteer?

Prospective volunteers must complete an application. Upon receipt of the application, Volunteer Services will send an email explaining the next steps.

  • Interview
  • Health Screen
  • Background Check – Form completed at interview
  • Orientation

Do volunteers wear a uniform?

Yes. Volunteers are required to wear red uniform jackets. All volunteers are required to dress in business casual attire. Specifically, khaki or black slacks and black shoes.

Can I volunteer in more than one area?

Yes. Once a volunteer has mastered details pertaining to their first assigned area and completed their initial commitment of hours, an additional or new service area may then be requested.

What can I expect at the volunteer orientation?

A Volunteer Handbook is provided to each volunteer. The handbook provides detailed information about the volunteer program such as policies and guidelines like those on infection control, environmental safety and patient confidentiality/HIPAA. First-day orientation will consist of a one-on-one meeting to review handbook content and facility details.

Additionally, volunteers receive training at each newly assigned area. Training will include basic workplace instructions as well as unit-specific information.

Where do I park?

Parking is available at various designated IU Health lots located near each hospital and provided at no cost to the volunteer.