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If you cannot find the answer to a question you have about volunteering, please contact us at 306-655-2026.
Select a question to view the answer or scroll down to view them all:
- I want to volunteer - what do I do next?
- How long does the process to become a volunteer
normally take?
- Why is the process so lengthy?
- What is the time commitment for volunteering?
- How long are the volunteer shifts?
- How often am I expected to volunteer?
- How are placement decisions made?
- What can volunteers do?
- Will I get training?
- Can I take holidays?
- Can I leave if I don’t like it?
1. I want to volunteer - what do I do next?
- Decide what location you would like to volunteer at: Royal University Hospital, Saskatoon City Hospital, St. Paul’s Hospital, Parkridge Centre or Idylwyld Centre.
- Apply on-line via MyVolunteerPage.com (searching under Saskatoon, selecting your prefered Saskatoon Health Region site).
OR
Pick up a Volunteer Application Form from any of the Volunteer Offices in the Saskatoon Health Region or download the application:
- Complete the application form and distribute the three letters of reference (in the Application Form) to individuals who know you well (excluding family members).
- Once the paperwork is complete, call the Volunteer Services Office at your preferred site to arrange for an interview.
- Bring your paperwork and references to your interview.
- At time of interview you will be given a form to obtain a Criminal Record Check (at no charge to you, the volunteer). Once you have received the CRC, please call the Volunteer Office to set up a time for the registration process (this 15-20 minute process involves having your Photo ID taken; Volunteer Vest assigned; Volunteer Handbook and Duty Description given; and a general tour of your volunteer area).
- Attend the General Volunteer Orientation.
- Attend your Role Specific Orientation and/or volunteer shadowing session(s).
2. How long does the process to become a volunteer normally take?
Approximately 2-4 weeks. The process involves the completion of an application form, an interview, successful completion of Criminal Record Check, attendance at a General Orientation Session, a Role Specific Orientation and/or volunteer shadowing session(s).
3. Why is the process so lengthy?
Processes are mandated by Saskatoon Health Region (SHR) policy. We want to ensure that you are fully prepared to take on the duties of your volunteer assignment and that the patients/residents/clients of SHR are fully protected.
4. What is the time commitment for volunteering?
Saskatoon Health Region Volunteer Services ask for a minimum commitment of 40 hours over a period of 4 months (10 hrs/month). Depending on the area you volunteer, this commitment may require one regular shift/week. There are also many volunteer areas that are more flexible and able to work around changing availability.
While much volunteering takes place during daytime office hours (8am-4pm), there are a variety of options for weekend and evening volunteering as well.
Once you have completed 40 hours of volunteer work, a letter of reference can be issued to assist in resumes and/or school requirements.
5. How long are the volunteer shifts?
Volunteer shifts average 3-4 hours in length.
6. How often am I expected to volunteer?
Most programs require volunteers to come in at the same time every week for their regular shift. Some programs offer more flexible times.
7. How are placement decisions made?
All placement decisions are made at the interview. Placements are typically offered in areas that have volunteer openings.
Can I change my placement area?
Volunteers are encouraged to make a minimum commitment of 4 months to their current placement. However, should other opportunities exist, a change can be arranged.
8. What can volunteers do?
The scope of volunteer involvement is huge! Volunteers have options of being involved in acute care settings, long-term care settings or even in the community setting. Please see the available opportunities on this website.
9. Will I get training?
Every volunteer will receive a General Orientation to the Saskatoon Health Region as well as a Specific Orientation that covers the duties that you will be responsible for in your volunteer area. Volunteers are also matched up to do some ‘job shadowing’ with a veteran volunteer in that area.
On going training is provided as needed and educational opportunities are offered throughout the year.
10. Can I take holidays?
Taking time for yourself as a volunteer is very important, and holidays are permitted. Please contact Volunteer Services well in advance to notify them of your decision to be away. Many of these positions need to be filled on a daily basis so arrangements will need to be made to find a replacement in your absence.
11. Can I leave if I don’t like it?
Yes, of course. You are under no real obligation to keep volunteering if you are unhappy with your placement. Having said that however, we ask that you give volunteering a fair chance. Not every shift will look the same, so trying it for at least 4-5 shifts will give you a better idea of what it will be like.
It is also always worth talking to somebody about your options as well. Please feel free to discuss with the Manager/Coordinator of Volunteers why you feel unhappy or unsatisfied with your experience. Perhaps together you can find ways to improve your time as a volunteer or find a more suitable placement within the organization.
You may also want to talk about your experience with other volunteers in the same role.
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