Caring Teen Volunteer Program

What do I need to bring to my Health Screen?
You must bring your photo ID (school photo ID is accepted) and the completed Parental Consent Form with you to your health screen appointment. This form is emailed to you with your preliminary acceptance letter. 

Will I need to miss school for the onboarding requirements? Will I be able to receive a school excuse letter?
You may need to miss school. Yes, it is the student’s responsibility to request a letter at the time of the appointment from the Houston Methodist Hospital Employee Health Clinic.

How will I know if I need a TB blood test?
A TB blood test will be required for those with history of positive TB and/or if you were born in a country that required a BCG vaccine. You will be able to receive this at your health screen.

What shifts are available?
Volunteer assignments are offered Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. The typical shift times are: 8 a.m. – 12 p.m., 12 p.m. – 4 p.m. or 4 p.m. – 8 p.m., with some room for flexibility. Limited assignments are available on the weekends.

Can I change my assignment?
Volunteers are encouraged to keep their original assignment due to the needs of the hospital and the number of Caring Teens in the program. Requests for reassignments will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

What if I have a last-minute absence for my volunteer shift?
It is your responsibility to notify us if you are going to be late or cannot make your scheduled shift. If you need to miss a shift, you will be able to submit an Absence Request Form on your volunteer profile. You are not required to report to your volunteer assignment on days Houston Methodist Hospital employees are not required to work (i.e. holidays).

What are the uniform requirements?
Volunteers must always wear a Caring Teen volunteer polo with a hospital photo I.D. badge so that patients, visitors, and staff can easily identify volunteers. Uniforms are generally purchased during one of your onsite appointments or on your first day for around $30 and are a tax-deductible item. You will purchase your uniform from the Gift Shop located in Dunn Tower 1st floor lobby and bring your receipt to the Volunteer Services Office to receive the uniform.

The Caring Teen uniform is worn with the appropriate length of dress, skirt, or slacks. Photo I.D. badges must always be worn on the uniform above the waist, and in plain view. Denim, capri pants, shorts, athletic wear, and open-toed shoes are not permitted. Please wear comfortable shoes with a rubber sole. Volunteers who fail to meet the dress code requirements will be asked by their supervisor or volunteer coordinator to return home 2(VS52 Volunteer Personal appearance) 5(VS55 Volunteer I.D. Badge) and are subject to termination at the discretion of the Director of Volunteer Services.