The greatest strength of the UC Davis Health volunteer program lies in its approach to volunteerism. When you become a volunteer you join a team of caring professionals whose mission is to improve the health of the people in the community they serve. UC Davis Health's volunteer team is made up of men and women from diverse economic and cultural backgrounds, high school and college students, retirees, transitioning adults and working professionals.

We look forward to you joining our team!

Volunteers may serve in patient care clinics, inpatient units or in the area of services to patients and/or families. We try to match the interests of the volunteer to the health system’s needs. Our greatest time of need is weekdays, however, evening and weekend volunteer positions are available.

Services to patients and families

The volunteer provides support by offering an extra level of assistance to patients. Depending on which area is selected, volunteer tasks may include, reading to children, providing patients with magazines and books, installing equipment, providing support to families waiting for patients in surgery, selling merchandise to visitors, staff and patients; providing information and assistance to the public, patients and staff; and helping staff to provide and maintain an atmosphere of reassurance, comfort and caring.

Patient Care Clinics

The volunteer serves as a link between the patient and the staff to provide support, continuity of care and facilitate patient flow. This placement can also provide a learning experience for health-care oriented volunteers who want a wide variety of experiences. Most placements are available Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Volunteer tasks may include assisting with direct patient care, clerical and psycho-social support of the patients, preparing treatment areas, transporting patients, assisting and observing technicians, therapists and nurses. Observation of treatment procedure and the interaction with staff provide an understanding of medical intervention and treatment.

Patient Care Services (Inpatient Units)

The volunteer assists patient care staff and functions as a team member in delivering care and service to patients. This includes, but is not limited to, direct patient care, clerical and psycho-social support of the patients on the unit. Most units have day, evening and weekend hours available. The volunteer becomes an active member of the multi-disciplinary team providing care for acutely ill, adult patients with various medical challenges. Nursing care at UC Davis Medical Center is science-based, technologically specialized and attuned to the human needs of individual patients and their families. Volunteers have the advantage at UC Davis Health of working with nurses who are nationally recognized as some of the best in the nation. Placements are available weekdays, evenings and weekends (24-7).