Is there an age requirement to volunteer at Boston Medical Center?

Our youngest volunteers are entering their junior year of high school. As opportunities for high school volunteers occur during typical school hours we encourage those interested to apply to our Junior Summer Volunteer Program. 

I have applied online, but have not heard from anyone after the suggested two-week response. What should I do?

Chances are we are waiting to receive your letters of reference. We generally do not reach out to applicants unless we receive both of the two required letters of reference. Please keep in mind we receive many applications and review them on a first come first serve basis. You may reach out to us, however, we cannot guarantee a placement for all that apply.

Who should the references be from? What should the references write?

Two letters of reference are required. Reference letters need not be more than a paragraph in length and should speak to the applicant’s interest in volunteering at BMC as well as their strengths as a volunteer. Letters of reference can come from anyone other than a relative.

For volunteer applicants who are currently students, we encourage one of the references to be from a recent teacher or advisor.

I only have evening and weekend availability. Can I volunteer?

We have a limited number of opportunities during evenings and weekends. These opportunities tend to fill quickly and there is less need for volunteers during these hours. Some roles allow flexibility for a 3-6pm shift. If you have any flexibility with your schedule, we encourage you to note it on your application.

I am interested in receiving school credit for my time at BMC. Does Volunteer Services oversee internships? 

If a student is interested in receiving school credit for their internship they must reach out to the employee they want to intern with directly. The employee will then reach out to Human Resources to establish the internship.

What about shadowing or observing opportunities?

If you are interested in shadowing or observing you must reach out to the individual employee you would like to shadow directly. The employee must then contact visiting personnel. 

When do I send in my immunizations?

After receiving your volunteer placement through the interview process we ask that you bring a hard copy of your immunizations to your appointment at the Working Well Clinic. Volunteer Services does not keep any copies of immunizations.

I don't have a TB test within the past 6 months. What should I do?

Your TB requirement can be fulfilled at BMC’s Working Well Clinic during your initial health screening. The Working Well Clinic offers the Igra TB blood test if you do not have documentation of a TB test within the past 6 months. 

Can I attend volunteer orientation before knowing my volunteer role?

We ask that you wait to attend orientation until you have been placed in a volunteer role and have determined a weekly shift. This will provide an easy transition from fulfilling the requirements to become a volunteer to starting in your role. 

What is the easiest way to get to Boston Medical Center?

Volunteers may park in the 710 Albany Street garage. If coming by public transportation the following bus lines make stops near BMC : 1, 8, 10, 47, CT1, CT3, SL4 & SL5. For more information on getting to BMC please visit the directions and transportation page here.