A major pillar of USC Verdugo Hills Hospital is its dedicated core of volunteers. Established in 1972, the Volunteer Services Department attracts, retains and recognizes qualified in-service volunteers. Currently, there are more than 80 dedicated volunteers, ranging in ages from 18 to 84, who provide their time and talent as volunteers in many areas in the hospital. The caliber of individuals working as hospital volunteers is exceptional; many are retired professionals and business people. Last year, volunteers contributed more than 6,000 hours of services.

The Volunteer Services Department uses volunteers in the following areas:

  • Main Volunteer Office
    • Offers information and assistance to visitors and patients
    • Transports patients, as needed
    • Transporting items
  • Meal Mates
    • Provides companionship during mealtimes
    • Must be at least 18 years of age
    • Completes and passes Meal Mates training, in addition to standard orientation
    • Commits to one uninterrupted hour, per shift
    • One to two times per week
    • Three-month commitment
  • Compassionate Companions
    • Provides compassionate visits to patients, some of whom may be near end of life
    • Must be at least 25 years of age
    • Six-month commitment
    • Completes and passes Compassionate Companions training, in addition to standard orientation

USC-VHH volunteer applicants should:

  • Be at least 16 years of age
  • Exhibit a professional appearance and manner
  • Exhibit a positive attitude
  • Be in good physical and mental health
  • Be dependable
  • Show commitment to the hospital
  • Commit to a minimum of 100 hours of service

Rewards for volunteering at USC-VHH:

  • Satisfaction of doing something for others
  • Opportunity to share your skills and learn new ones
  • Make a difference by serving your community
  • Enjoyment of making new friends and having fun
  • For student volunteers, earning service hours

Adult and Student Volunteers

Adult volunteer onboarding will begin again in January 2024. We ask that individuals, between the ages of 16 and 18 years old, email their intent beginning in February, to join the Spring 2024 cohort of student volunteers.

Contact Us

Please contact us if you have questions regarding volunteer opportunities.
Phone: (818) 952-2215
Email: vhhvolunteer@med.usc.edu.