|
How to Volunteer
(212) 312-5718
New York Downtown Hospital, a member of the NewYork–Presbyterian Healthcare System, is a non-profit institution located in Lower Manhattan. It is a community hospital which primarily serves the people who live and work in this neighborhood.
With more than fifty departments, New York Downtown Hospital provides wide-ranging volunteer opportunities for those who are interested in making a difference in the lives of others. We invite you to make great things happen in our community, explore health career opportunities, gain work experience, brush up on your skills, fulfill academic requirements, meet new people, and acquire invaluable experience.
Overview
Long-term Volunteer Guidelines
- Minimum of 150 hours of service
- At least 4 hours a week
Summer and Winter Volunteer Guidelines
- Applications are accepted only in March for Summer volunteer service and only in October for Winter volunteer service.
- Minimum of 120 hours of service
- At least 15 hours each week for 6-8 weeks
Volunteer Opportunities
Administrative and Clerical
This opportunity offers volunteers the chance to provide much needed administrative support for the departmental staff. Volunteers will gain skills in office management, file management, labeling, running errands, appointment scheduling, reception of walk-in and phone inquiries, and other general office duties.
- Placement determined by education and qualifications
- Minimum age: 16
- Times to volunteer: Monday to Friday—9:00 AM-5:00 PM
- Fluent in English
Public Information
Volunteers in these positions will provide hospitality to patients, families, and visitors. Volunteers will maintain a secure environment within the hospital grounds. Duties involve greeting visitors, and giving directions.
- Placement determined by education and qualifications
- Minimum age: 16
- Times to volunteer: Monday to Friday—9:00 AM-6:00 PM
- Fluent in English
Community Outreach
One of New York Downtown Hospital’s missions is to reach out and provide healthcare to those who work or live in the community. We offer many health outreach events and health fairs throughout the year. The dates of the outreach events vary. Many events occur on weekends. Volunteers will assist with setting up, registering patients, directing traffic, and, under nursing supervision, to operate medical equipment.
- Placement determined by education and qualifications
- Minimum age: 16
- Times to volunteer: vary throughout the year
- Fluent in English
Laboratory
In the laboratory setting, volunteers will have the opportunity to observe daily operations and learn how technicians work. Volunteers will also assist in data entry, report relay (by phone), slide preparation, specimen labeling, and logging.
- Placement determined by education and qualifications
- Minimum age: 18
- Times to volunteer: Monday to Friday—9:00 AM-4:00 PM. Note: laboratories are most active in the morning.
- Fluent in English
FAQ
What are the time requirements?
The minimum time commitment is at least 4 hours a week. Volunteers are asked to make a commitment to serve at least 150 hours. Summer and Winter volunteers are asked to make a commitment of 120 hours, with at least 15 hours each week for 4-8 weeks.
What is the minimum age to volunteer?
The minimum age is 16, although individual departments may also have their own minimum age requirement.
What is the deadline for Summer Session, Winter Session, and Long-term Volunteer applications?
Summer session applications will only be accepted from March 1st to March 31st. Winter session applications will only be accepted from October 1st to October 31st. Long-term applications are generally accepted year-round, unless all slots in each department are full. Be sure to check that you have included your social security number, and ensure that all your paperwork is correct and complete.
What is the process?
If you are interested in pursuing a volunteer opportunity at New York Downtown Hospital, download the application form on this Website, and mail the application, along with a resume, to the Volunteer Department, before the appropriate deadline. The Mailing address of the Volunteer Department is:
New York Downtown Hospital
Volunteer Department
170 William Street
New York, NY 10038
Note: any applications postmarked after the deadline will not be accepted. Upon completion, we will review your application, and, if accepted, the Volunteer Department will notify you within one month to schedule an interview.
How long do I have to complete the application process?
After the interview, you will have to complete the application process, including the physical and reference forms, and hand in all necessary paperwork within one month from the date of your interview. Be certain that you have health insurance coverage, as the Volunteer Department does not provide this benefit. Upon completion of the interview, all applicants must pass the Orientation Exam in order to qualify for a volunteer position.
How long does it take to be processed once the application is completed?
You will hear from the Volunteer Department within one month following completion of the application. If you do not hear from us within four weeks, you may call us for your application status at (212) 312-5718.
Will I be able to shadow a doctor and/or have a clinical experience?
No. We do not offer shadowing, observership, and/or clinical experiences through the Volunteer Department.
Do you have research positions available?
No. Research positions are not offered through New York Downtown Hospital’s Volunteer Services Department.
Does volunteering at the hospital mean I will be able to get a job there?
Volunteering at the hospital does not guarantee future employment.
Is there a dress code?
Yes. The preferred dress code is business casual. Volunteers are not allowed to wear blue jeans, sweatpants, sweatshirts, open toe shoes, t-shirts, shorts, sleeveless/ backless/ strapless/spaghetti strap tops or dresses, low necklines, crop pants, crop tops, spandex, and sheer attire. Jewelry worn in the work place should be minimal.
NEW YORK DOWNTOWN HOSPITAL VOLUNTEER APPLICATION
|
