As part of our commitment to excellence, Ochsner Volunteers provide an extra dimension of effective care and service to our patients, families, visitors and staff. Volunteers are an integral part of Ochsner's Service Excellence initiative. Their time and talents are vital to the comfort and care of our patients and their families. Ochsner volunteers have the satisfaction of knowing that even the smallest service can have far-reaching effects.
Giving Your Time and Talent
Where would you like to help? At Ochsner, we take the time to match each volunteer's interests and skills with departmental needs. Volunteers may choose from a varied choice of patient and non-patient care areas throughout the institution.
Why Volunteer?
- Involvement in your community
- Learn from health-care professionals
- Acquire new and enhance existing skills
- Add experience to your resume
- Develop self-esteem by helping others
- Opportunity to develop new friendships
- Annual rewards and recognitions
- Complete Service Hour requirements
- Explore a new career in healthcare
Adult Volunteers are accepted throughout the year. Junior Volunteers are accepted on a quartlery basis; once every Winter, Spring, Fall and twice every Summer.
Requirements
- Must be at least 14 years of age and entering the 9th grade
- Completion of the Volunteer Process
- Commit to completing a minimum total of 50 hours
If you or someone you know may be interested in providing help, hope and healing through their gift of caring, please call Ochsner's Volunteer Services Department at 504-842-5085.
Summer Junior Volunteer Program
Junior volunteers must be going into 9th grade and between the ages of 14-17. Applications are accepted February - May each year. The program is very popular and spaces fill up quickly; those interested should apply as soon as possible. Applicants who meet our minimum requirements will be contacted in May to schedule a phone interview. Afterwards, those who are preliminary accepted into the program will receive information packets in the mail. A health screening and drug test are required, and information about these requirements will be included in the packet. Orientations will be held in June. Prospective junior volunteers must attend one of these orientations with a parent/guardian before starting to volunteer at Ochsner. For additional information, please call Ochsner's Volunteer Services Department at 504-842-5085.
Process
The following steps are the required practices for becoming a Volunteer at Ochsner
STEP 1: Application
The Volunteer Application can be found here or in the Volunteer Services Office. Once you have completely filled out the application, you will be considered for the following steps.
STEP 2: Interview
A Volunteer Services team member will contact you to schedule an interview. Your acceptance and placement will be based on your interests and the needs of Ochsner.
STEP 3: Orientation
Upon acceptance, you will be invited to a mandatory orientation. This covers Ochsner's policies and procedures, expectations and guidelines for volunteers, as well as safety and security.
STEP 4: Screenings
Following orientation, we will schedule prospective adult volunteers for a required health screening provided by Ochsner's Employee Health Department. Adult Volunteers will also have a Background Check and two reference checks completed. (Junior Volunteers will have a health screening form and TB test completed by their pediatrician.)
STEP 5: Placement and Scheduling
After completing your health screening requirements, you should call the volunteer office to determine your volunteer placement, schedule, and start date.
STEP 6: First Day of Volunteering
On your first day, you will receive your ID badge. A Volunteer Services team member will escort you to your placement and introduce you to your supervisor.
