Volunteer Services Texas Medical Center
Volunteer at Texas Medical Center
Adult Volunteer Program
The Volunteer Services Department at Texas Children's is devoted to cultivating a robust and dynamic program that prioritizes support, compassion, and exceptional service for the diverse community of children, women, and families we serve. Our commitment extends beyond these families to encompass the dedicated staff of Texas Children's, ensuring that everyone experiences a positive environment. Based on hospital needs, we strive to offer enriching and inspiring volunteer opportunities that engage individuals in meaningful ways, allowing them to make a significant impact while developing their skills and experiences.
What we look for in our adult volunteers:
- Positive attitude and body language
- Ability to create an environment respectful of differences
- Ability to provide exceptional customer service
- Respectful in words and actions
Commitment:
- Minimum 6 – month commitment
- One 3-hour shift on the same day each week
Adult Volunteer Requirements:
- Must be over 18 and not enrolled in high school
- Attend a virtual Information Session
- Complete the volunteer application
- Complete in-person interview
- Health Clearance (including two doses of MMR and Varicella, proof of TDap within the last 10 years, TB test, and seasonal flu vaccine)
- Criminal background check clearance
If you want to pursue an internship, observership, or shadowing opportunity, please contact the department you wish to work with directly. They can provide specific information about available positions, application procedures, and any requirements you may need to fulfill.
We invite you to attend our Volunteer Information Session to learn more about volunteer requirements and available placements. The information session is an hour-long Microsoft Teams meeting and the first step to becoming a volunteer.
Summer Junior Program – Summer 2026
We are excited to announce the return of the Summer Junior Program for Summer 2026. This engaging, onsite six-week volunteer program offers approximately 30 high school students (ages 15–17) the opportunity to support patients, families, and staff in a hospital setting.
Program Dates
Friday, June 5 – Thursday, July 16, 2026
Please note: The Summer Junior Program does not offer shadowing or observation experiences. Participants engage in meaningful volunteer assignments and educational opportunities.
A substantial time commitment is required. Applicants with camps, travel, or other obligations that overlap with the program dates are encouraged to apply in a future year when they can fully dedicate themselves to the program.
Campus Selection
Program requirements vary by campus. Applicants may apply to one campus only, based on availability and personal needs.
Applicants who apply to multiple campuses will not be considered.
Application Timeline
- Application opens: Friday, February 6, 2026 at 5:00 pm CST
- Application closes: Friday, February 13, 2026 at 5:00 pm CST
Please refer to the Summer Junior Program Packet for the application and additional details.
2026 Program Expectations
Participants must be able to:
- Attend mandatory, in-person orientation and training on Friday, June 5
- Commit to the entire six-week program
- Volunteer Monday–Thursday, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
- Limit absences to no more than four shifts (or two full days)
- Obtain medical clearance through Texas Children’s Employee Health
2026 Applicant Requirements
Applicants must meet all of the following criteria:
- Be at least 15 years old by June 1, 2026 and enrolled in high school for the 2026–2027 school year
- Complete the application personally, using the applicant’s own email address and phone number
- Submit a one-minute video (see Program Packet for details)
- Provide two references; recommendation forms must be submitted directly by the reference to
juniorvolunteer@texaschildrens.org by the application deadline - Incomplete applications will not be reviewed
Application Process
- Submit all application materials by Friday, February 13, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. CST
- Acceptance notifications will be sent on Friday, March 6, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. CST
- Accepted applicants must complete health requirements by Thursday, March 27, 2026
To assess readiness for service, all program communication should be conducted directly by the applicant, not a parent or guardian.
A Competitive Opportunity
The Summer Junior Program is highly competitive, with more applicants than available positions, so not all applicants will be selected. Teens who approach their applications with care, creativity, and attention to detail can stand out and make a meaningful impact.
Donations
We ask that you call at least 15 minutes ahead when dropping off donations. This will help ensure that a staff member is able and ready to receive your donation.
If you must bring donations at another time, please call 832-824-2257 to make other arrangements.
Contact Information
Volunteer Services Department
6621 Fannin Street, Suite A1125
Houston, TX 77030
832-824-2257