Become a Volunteer TODAY
At the heart of our hospital is a team of dedicated volunteers who bring comfort, compassion, and a helping hand to patients, families, and staff every day. Whether it’s offering a friendly smile, providing directions, or supporting our care teams behind the scenes, our volunteers play a vital role in creating a welcoming and healing environment.
Volunteering at our hospital is a meaningful way to give back to the community, explore a career in healthcare, or simply make a difference in someone’s day. We welcome individuals of all backgrounds who are kind, dependable, and eager to serve others.
Ready to Join Us?
We’d love to have you on our team!
To apply, simply click below to fill out our volunteer application form or visit our Volunteer Services Department for more information.
Adult Application (18 years old & up)
Prep U Program (15-18 years old)
Contact Us
Adult Programs
Megan Vinson, Regional Director, Experience and Volunteers
Mvinson@primehealthcare.com or 815-725-7133 ext. 3371
High School Programs
Kelly Kuyawa, Regional Manager, Experience and Volunteers
Kkuyawa@primehealthcare.com or 815-725-7133 ext. 3465
Volunteer Requirements
To ensure the best experience for both our volunteers and patients, all applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be at least 15 years of age at the time your application is submitted.
- Commit to 6 months of service, totaling 100 volunteer hours. This typically means volunteering 3–4 hours per week.
- Participate in an interview with a Volunteer Services Program Manager, be accepted into a program, and complete the required onboarding process. Onboarding may take 2–4 weeks depending on your availability.
- Be in good health and able to pass a health and drug screening. Volunteers must also receive an annual influenza vaccination during flu season.
- Visa Restrictions: This opportunity is not available for B-1, B-2, H1-B, or H-4 visa holders. Applicants with permanent resident cards must provide a copy during the interview process.
Prep U: Student Volunteer Program
Purpose & Overview
The Prep U Program at Saint Joseph Medical Center in Joliet is designed to give high school students (ages 15 and older) a meaningful introduction to the healthcare field through volunteer service. This program is ideal for students considering a future in healthcare and looking to gain early experience in a hospital environment.
During each 14-week session, students volunteer one scheduled weekday per week from 4 PM to 7 PM, committing to 3 hours per shift. In addition to their weekly service, students can request a 3-hour job shadow of a healthcare professional to learn more about a specific career path.
At the end of the program, students will receive a letter of completion verifying their service hours—an excellent addition to college applications, scholarship packets, or resumes
Program Details
- Students must be 15 years or older at the time of application.
- One shift per week: 3 hours (4 PM–7 PM, weekdays only).
- 14-week commitment with a mandatory orientation prior to the session.
- Only 30 students per session will be selected.
- Missing more than 2 scheduled volunteer days will result in forfeiture of all accrued service hours.
- A job shadow opportunity is available upon request during the session.
- At the end of the session, students will receive a letter of completion documenting their hours and participation.
Note: Students must be able to commit to the full 14 weeks. Incomplete participation may affect eligibility for future sessions or recommendation letters.
Student Ambassador Program (Summer Only)
Purpose & Overview
The Saint Joseph Medical Center Student Ambassador Program offers high school students a unique, summer-only opportunity to volunteer while exploring careers in healthcare. This program is designed to provide both service hours and an educational experience through real-world exposure to hospital departments and professionals.Over the course of seven (7) weeks, Ambassadors will volunteer one day per week, from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM, with a lunch break included. Volunteers are placed in clinical areas (or non-clinical by request) to assist and shadow staff in departments such as:
- Nursing Services
- Emergency Department
- Therapy Services
- Outpatient Clinics
- Laboratory
- Surgical Services
- Pharmacy (students must hold a valid pharmacy technician license to volunteer in this area)
Please note: All placements are subject to availability and specific assignments cannot be guaranteed.
Enrichment Opportunities
In addition to volunteer work, Student Ambassadors will be invited to participate in several educational enrichment workshops, which may include:
- Operating Room Tour
- Imaging Department Tour
- Nursing Simulation Lab Experience
These sessions are designed to deepen students’ understanding of the healthcare environment and inspire future paths in medicine and allied health.
Student Requirements
To be eligible for the Student Ambassador Program, applicants must:
- Be at least 15 years old and currently enrolled in high school (not a graduate).
- Maintain a 3.60 GPA or higher on a 4.00 scale.
- Obtain a recommendation from their school counselor.
- Provide parental consent to participate.
- Submit physician health consent to participate.
Program Completion
Students who successfully complete the program will receive:
- A letter of recommendation for college
- A certificate of completion
- Approximately 40 service hours applicable toward school or community requirements
.
Sign Up
Interested in becoming a Student Ambassador?
Applications are available starting April 1. The deadline to apply and interview is June 1.
Due to high interest, we cannot guarantee all applicants will be selected or contacted for interviews. We recommend applying to multiple organizations for summer service opportunities.
Questions?
Please contact us at (815) 725-7133 Ext. 3465 or email kkuyawa@primehealthcare.com
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
How do I apply to volunteer?
Click here to fill out our volunteer application form or contact our Volunteer Services Department for assistance.
Can I choose where I volunteer in the hospital?
While we try to match volunteers with their interests, placement depends on current hospital needs and availability.
Can I volunteer if I’m under 15 years old?
Unfortunately, we cannot accept applicants under the age of 15.
What if I need to take time off during my commitment?
We understand that life happens! We ask volunteers to communicate any scheduling needs in advance so we can make adjustments as needed.
Will I get a letter of recommendation or certificate of hours?
Yes! Upon completing your commitment and required hours, we’re happy to provide documentation of your service.