Volunteer FAQ
What do I need to know in order to volunteer?
- Must be able to commit to one full year of volunteer service
- Adults/college students submit a resumé. High school students submit a resumé and letter of recommendation from school counselor or teacher
- Purchase a uniform
Is there a minimum age to volunteer at Alvarado Hospital?
Yes, applicants must be at least 16 years old.
Do I need any experience to volunteer?
No experience necessary.
Is there a deadline to apply to become a volunteer?
No, there is no deadline.
When can I pick up an application?
Volunteer office hours are Monday-Friday, 9 AM-4 PM. The office is closed on all major holidays.
Where is the volunteer office located?
The office is located on the first floor, suite 112, at 6645 Alvarado Road, San Diego, 92120. When you arrive, enter the West Tower. We are located on the first floor, first hallway to the right at the end of the hall.
How long is the interview?
Approximately 30 minutes.
What days do you schedule interviews?
Monday, Wednesday and Friday afternoon between 1-4 PM.
Is there a minimum age to volunteer?
Yes, you must be 16 years or older.
How do I apply?
Pick up an application in the volunteer office. Hours are Monday-Friday, 8 AM-4 PM. (Closed on all major holidays.) The office is located on the first floor of the West Tower at 6645 Alvarado Road, suite 112, San Diego, 92120. There is free parking in the hospital’s parking structure and there is a trolley stop across the street from the hospital (Alvarado Medical Center station on the green line).
Do I need a background screening?
Yes, background verification applies to all volunteer applicants. You must have a Social Security number
Do you accept court-ordered volunteering?
No. You may contact the Volunteer Center of San Diego at 858-636-4131.
What if I’m not a U.S. citizen?
Please provide a current passport or VISA. You may not volunteer on an H4 VISA.
I want to work in one specific department, may I skip general training?
No. We require all new volunteers to go through an interview, general orientation and information desk training prior to being placed into a specific department.
Are there set time frames to volunteer?
Yes, shifts are 8 AM-noon, noon-4 PM and 4-8 PM, seven days a week.
Is there a uniform?
Yes, you may purchase the embroidered uniform top from Ace Uniform. Cost of the uniform top begins at $25, plus tax. Sizes XL and up have an additional fee.
What if I don’t have proof of MMR (measles, mumps and rubella immunization)?
You will need to visit your physician or health clinic to receive MMR blood titers.
What if I’ve had a TB test and the result was positive?
Provide proof of chest X-ray from physician or health clinic stating your results are clear
What if I’ve already taken a TB test within the year?
Please provide us with documentation of results.
“I need to volunteer A.S.A.P. and less than 100 hours…” “I’m only in town for three months…”
At this time, we are unable to accommodate less than a one-year commitment.
Whom do I notify about absences, vacations or emergencies?
We understand life happens and things come up unexpectedly. It is your responsibility to inform us of any illness, absences, vacations or emergencies.
Please send a notification to the volunteer department, through e-mail or call 619-229-4619 and leave a voicemail message or with any member in the office. We will accommodate and reschedule you for another shift, day or time off.
If you miss three days without calling, e-mailing or showing up, your volunteer position will be terminated.
What if I decide I can no longer volunteer?
Notify the volunteer department through e-mail or call 619-229-4619 to leave a message with any member in the office.