Volunteering

Help Make a Difference

Volunteer opportunities at the hospitals of the Albany Med Health System are available to those who want to enhance the patient and family experience. Learn more about volunteering at our hospitals below and contact us for more information.

Contact Us

Volunteering at Albany Medical Center
518-262-3491

Volunteering at Columbia Memorial Health
518-828-8028

Volunteering at Glens Falls Hospital
518-926-2780

Volunteering at Saratoga Hospital
518-583-8447

Information for Prospective Volunteers

All prospective volunteers that complete an application are interviewed by the manager of Volunteer Services. You must complete a mandatory orientation session that includes instruction on patient confidentiality, universal precautions, fire and safety rules, OSHA safety standards, and security and emergency preparedness.

Employee Health Services will provide state-mandated physicals and administer any necessary vaccines and a TB skin test free of charge. Flu vaccination is mandatory.

The Albany Medical Center Auxiliary

Founded in 1951, the Albany Medical Center Auxiliary is a volunteer service organization supporting our mission of providing the highest quality of care. This may involve financially supporting the hospital or efforts that contribute to the care and comfort of patients.

Membership dues are $10 a year. Lifetime membership is granted with a one-time payment of $200.

The Auxiliary raises money through the hospital's thrift shop, vendor sales, a holiday sale, book sales, and other events. The Volunteer office houses a library of used books for sale.

Columbia Memorial Health Auxilians experience a special sense of satisfaction from assisting others and they take pride in belonging to an organization that is held in high esteem by the community. Beyond performing a valuable community service, Auxilians develop new skills, learn more about health care, meet new people, and experience a sense of accomplishment.

Auxilians are:

  • Trusted members of the CMH health care team who scrupulously safeguard the confidentiality of patients and CMH personnel.
  • Valuable resources for the hospital for determining community needs and concerns.
  • Organizers capable of initiating and carrying out community-oriented projects.
  • Community leaders in supporting CMH interests where legislative issues are concerned.
  • Volunteer who believe staying active leads to healthier and happier lives.

Since 1903, Glens Falls Hospital has had the support of thousands of dedicated volunteers who have chosen to give back through our hospital. Volunteering is a fun, easy, and rewarding way to support our friends and neighbors who need it most. Our team is made up of active, friendly, and welcoming professionals from a wide variety of backgrounds who care for our patients, visitors, and employees.

How do I become a volunteer?

  • Fully complete and submit an application.
  • Interview with our Director of Volunteer Services.
  • All on-site volunteers are required to be cleared through our employee health department prior to volunteering.
  • Complete and return all required paperwork to the Director of Volunteer Services.
  • Complete orientation, obtain a photo ID, and make arrangements for your schedule and first day!

Our volunteer team is comprised of general (adult) volunteers (18+), pet therapy handlers, junior volunteers (ages 14 to 18), off-site volunteers, and special event volunteers.

Our Junior Program offers teenagers ages 13 to 18 a valuable experience by volunteering a minimum of two hours per week. This experience provides opportunities for personal development by building competence and confidence in customer service, decision-making, and organizational and leadership skills in a health care environment. Junior volunteer hours are recognized with a certificate, which is sent to the students’ high school.

For more information, call 518-926-2780.

Long History of Caring

Volunteers have played an important role at Saratoga Hospital since its founding in 1891 by a local group of prominent women determined to meet their community's desperate need for medical care. Since then, the efforts of countless volunteers have enabled the Saratoga Hospital Volunteer Guild to donate millions of dollars for hospital projects and programs.

Join the Volunteer Guild

Eligibility
Volunteers must be:

  • At least 16 years old
  • Able to commit to serving four hours per week for at least one year
  • Able to pass a general health assessment and be willing to attend the Hospital’s orientation and training in their assigned area
  • An application and interview are required

Member Benefits
In gratitude, our Volunteer Guild members additionally receive discounts and enjoy a number of recognition events throughout the year.

Become a Volunteer
We welcome new volunteers and invite you to complete an application.

Volunteer Guild Contributions
Over the years, the Guild has donated more than $5 million to Saratoga Hospital projects and programs. Among other contributions, Treasures Consignment Boutique and Thrift Shoppe partners with over two dozen local agencies to provide clothing and household articles to those in need.