Teen Volunteer Program

The Teen Volunteer Program is a rewarding experience that provides a special opportunity for teens who are interested in gaining experience in a pediatric health care environment.

Because of the sensitive nature of the pediatric hospital environment, we only offer opportunities for teens ages 15-17.

Teens that are accepted into the program are placed in a variety of areas throughout the hospital under supervision of UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh staff.

Update 3/1/2022: Due to continuing COVID-19 restrictions, UPMC Children's will not be accepting applications from candidates, ages 15-17, for the Summer Teen Program in 2022, as our volunteer age limit remains for those ages 18 and up.

If you are a high school student who is or will turn age 18 prior to June 15, 2022, please reach out to us via email (volunteercoordinator@chp.edu) if you are interested being part of our program this Summer and beyond. Assignments available this Summer include Patient Experience Ambassador and Patient Transport.

Teen Volunteer Requirements

  • Teens must be between 15 and 17 years of age.
  • Commit to a weekly schedule of 3 to 4 hours of service for a minimum of eight weeks between June and August. A limited number of teens may qualify to volunteer during the school year.
  • Teens that have already volunteered in the summer program will be selected for school year assignments based on merit and availability.
  • Complete the pre-application survey during the open enrollment period between March 1 and early April (new teen applicants only). Please note, we will not accept any additional applications after the enrollment period deadline has passed.
  • Attend the mandatory New Teen Volunteer Orientation prior to start date.
  • Returning teens are required to complete an Annual Retraining review and test.
  • Complete Immunization Requirements prior to start date (More information will be emailed to candidates who are offered assignments in a special acceptance packet):
    • An updated TB test.
    • Record of Tdap vaccination in the past 10 years.
    • Any additional required paperwork you receive.

Internships, Externships, Shadowing, and Research Opportunities

The Volunteer Services Department does not process requests for internships, externships, clinical or professional shadowing, or research opportunities within UPMC Children's.

If you are interested in pursuing those types of opportunities, contact the hospital department directly for information.

Contact UPMC Children's Volunteer Services

To learn more about Volunteer Services at UPMC Children's, call 412-692-5185 or email chpvolunteer@chp.edu.

Learn more about all UPMC Volunteer Services »