Volunteer
A Heart for Kids
Our volunteers find inspiration from the courage, joy and determination of the children and staff at Ranken Jordan. At the same time, we’re humbled by the selfless dedication of our amazing volunteers. There are a few different ways to get involved at Ranken Jordan. Learn how to make a difference in a child’s life – and your own.
Individual Volunteers
Whether you’re helping a child swing on the jungle gym, accompanying kids on an outing to one of the many fun places around St. Louis, or helping behind the scenes, volunteers make a direct and immediate impact on the children and staff at Ranken Jordan every day.
Volunteering at Ranken Jordan is a rewarding experience that will leave a lasting impression on your heart.
*Ranken Jordan cannot provide court-mandated community service hours. Standard onboarding takes about 30 days.
Please Review the Following Volunteer Guidelines
Impact
The patient care volunteer provides one-on-one companionship and enrichment for our patients. This enhances each patient’s quality of life and helps support staff workload.
Time Requirements
Onboarding takes approximately one month. Volunteers commit to a regular 2-3 hour shift each week and may pick up additional shifts if they wish. Volunteers must commit to serving at least three months and must complete at least 40 hours of service.
Skills and Qualifications
- Must be at least 16 years of age and pass a background check
- Must show proof of a negative TB blood test (or 2 negative TB skin tests)
- Must show proof flu vaccine (between November and March)
- Must be able to bend, stretch, walk, run, lift up to 35 lbs., be able to push an adult-sized patient in a wheelchair, and get on and off the floor with ease
- *If a volunteer has limitations that prevent any of these, other volunteer roles are available.
- Must have access to the internet, check emails regularly, and be able to complete online training modules independently
- Must not have artificial nails or gel polish. Nails must be kept no more than ¼” from nailbed.
- Must utilize safe hand washing procedures and wear appropriate personal protective equipment provided by the hospital. This may include mask, gloves, gown and face shield.
- Must feel comfortable working with patients with various cognitive and physical health diagnoses, physical abnormalities, extensive injuries, and emotionally destressing stories
- Must be outgoing, independent, and comfortable with self-directed patient interactions
- Must abide by strict patient privacy policies and volunteer dress code
Duties and Responsibilities
- Spend time with patients or their siblings
- Supervise patients or their siblings when nurses and caregivers are not present
- You may read, assist with art projects, play games, and take eligible patients outside or around the hospital.
- Provide a listening ear and supportive presence for patients who want to share their feelings and experiences with you.
- Help with cleaning, organizing, and other tasks around the hospital
- Call for help in case of an emergency
- Volunteers may not lift, transfer patients, or assist with bathing, toileting, or diapering needs
Training
Volunteers attend a 2.5-hour New Volunteer Orientation event, complete online training modules, and may receive additional one-on-one training for their assigned location. Volunteers can choose to shadow someone prior to their first shift if they wish. Volunteers also complete ongoing training as assigned by the hospital or the volunteer coordinator.
Benefits
Patient care volunteers get to connect with amazing patients and staff, learn about the specialized field of pediatric care for patients with complex medical needs, and have the joy and fulfillment of making a meaningful investment in the lives of our patients.
“I still think about how Ranken Jordan changed my life.”
— Kiland Sampa, Inpatient Jul-Nov 2013, Outpatient Dec 2013-Dec 2014