Volunteer Patient Pal

Volunteers are an essential part of our successful Child Life and Education program. Patient Pals spend time with patients and families creating opportunities for play and social interaction. Children's of Alabama and the Child Life and Education department value family-centered care and expect volunteers to embrace this philosophy. Volunteers should be friendly and willing to engage with both patients and families.


Volunteers should be prepared to function semi-independently while encouraging a positive atmosphere between children and families by providing play and recreational activities. A volunteer must be motivated, willing to take initiative and be a self-starter who can take an active role with children. They also assist in maintaining a safe environment and keeping toys clean and organized. While serving as a Patient Pal you will gain experience in:

• Patient and Family Centered Care
• Working with diverse patient, families, and staff
• Learning to interact with children in a developmentally appropriate manner
• Active listening
• Better understanding of a multi-disciplinary team
• Communicating with medical professionals

If the Patient Pal volunteer position sounds like something you would enjoy, please apply!