College Student Volunteer
College student volunteers play an important role in creating a welcoming and positive experience for patients, families and visitors at Children’s Mercy.
Each opportunity uniquely supports our vision to create a world of wellbeing for children.
Explore volunteer opportunities
Year-round: Because of the generosity of our community, volunteer opportunities are limited. To best meet the needs of our patients and families, we give priority to applicants whose availability matches our current needs.
Summer volunteer program: For students looking for a short-term commitment, the summer program offers a unique opportunity to make a difference while supporting patients and families.
Please make sure you meet the below requirements before submitting a volunteer application.
Age: College student volunteers must be over the age of 18 and have graduated from high school.
Time commitment:
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Year-round volunteers are asked to commit to one three-hour shift each week for a minimum of nine to 12 consecutive months.
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Summer program volunteers are asked to commit to one eight-hour shift per week, on the same day each week, for nine consecutive weeks. Applications for summer 2026 are closed. Please check back in spring 2027.
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Health and background clearance: The health and safety of our patients and their families is a top priority. Volunteers must complete a background check, submit a health form and meet vaccination requirements, including the annual flu vaccine.
Performance standards: Volunteers are expected to follow hospital policies, including patient privacy and confidentiality requirements, as well as customer service standards.
More ways to get involved
For more ways to give:
- Consider making happy kits for our patients and families or organizing a fundraiser.
- Helping at the Donation Center assisting with projects such as sorting toys, organizing clothing donations, assembling educational packets or other various tasks we need assistance with. This one-time opportunity is available up to seven times a year.
Explore volunteer opportunities for college students
Every volunteer has the opportunity to provide comfort to patients, families and visitors, ensuring each and every person who walks through our doors has a positive experience while at Children’s Mercy.
Guest services and hospitality roles
Help make every visitor feel welcome and ensure they have the most comfortable visit possible from the moment they walk in the door and throughout their stay.
Outpatient roles
Help patients pass the time in waiting rooms with fun activities, as well as support important duties to help our clinics run smoothly.
Inpatient roles
Provide much needed support to the parents and patients spending time at Children’s Mercy through daytime and evening activities that help promote a positive experience during a difficult time.
Have questions about being a volunteer while in college?
Read our hospital volunteer FAQ for more information on becoming a volunteer at Children's Mercy.