Volunteer Services
Volunteers are critical to UNC Health Blue Ridge’s success and play a vital role at Grace and Valdese Hospitals, Grace Ridge Retirement Community, Phifer Wellness Center, and many physicians offices located throughout a three-county area. Volunteer opportunities abound and we want to help pair your interests and talents with the needs and missions of our organization.
Volunteers run the gift shops at the two hospitals and take care of the buying, selling, inventory and restocking. The profits from the gift shops and special sales held throughout the year are used to address the needs of patients, purchase equipment and provide college scholarships for healthcare students.
Other volunteers help with clerical work, staff the information desks, distribute mail to patients, organize bingo games and seasonal celebrations, and escort visitors. The volunteers help out with employee and physician celebrations as well. Volunteers give stuffed animals, knitted caps, blankets, snacks and toys to babies and children in the hospital as well as partner with a local supermarket to provide fresh flowers to residents at Grace Heights and College Pines.
Volunteer as much or as little as you want. If you’d like to put your talents and experience to work for a good cause, look into becoming a UNC Health Blue Ridge Volunteer.
Requirements to Volunteer
- Be at least 18 years of age
- Have a high school diploma or GED
- Pass a criminal background check
- Provide 3 positive references from non-family members
- Fill out the volunteer application completely
- Fulfill TB testing and immunization requirements (Employee Health – 580-5380)
Once the above have been completed, you will be contacted to set up:
- Mandatory learning
- Initial orientation
- On-the-job training
If you’d like UNC Health Blue Ridge to be the recipient of your interests, time, talents, and compassion, please consider volunteering with us. Call at 828-580-5729 or email us further information.
Applications are available at the front desk of both hospitals.
Youth Volunteer Services
We have Two Offerings for youth who are in their Junior or Senior year of High School (below is the information that is shared):
SERVICE SCHOLARS – Youth Volunteer Initiative at UNC Health Blue Ridge
The Service Scholars Initiative aims to inspire high school juniors and seniors to embrace the spirit of giving back while enhancing their college or professional resumes. This ongoing program is ideal for youth looking to volunteer consistently over a period of 6 months to 1 year. Our goal is to connect young people with meaningful volunteer opportunities within UNC Health Blue Ridge, fostering a sense of community, social connection, and belonging in an inclusive setting. Through hands-on experiences, students will develop compassion, leadership, social connection and engagement, and a lifelong commitment to service.
COMMUNITY BUILDERS – Youth Volunteer Initiative at UNC Health Blue Ridge
The Community Builders Initiative is designed to help high school juniors and seniors fulfill their service club hours while fostering personal growth and a sense of belonging. This program connects young volunteers with opportunities to support our healthcare organization and make a positive impact within the local community. Approved applicants will be offered opportunities to participate in various projects throughout the year, including assisting hospital staff, contributing to patient experience initiatives, and supporting healthcare-sponsored events.
HOW TO GET STARTED? To join, students must complete an application and receive approval from Volunteer Services leadership. Download the application form to print out and complete here:
Please submit your completed application via email to BRVolunteers@unchealth.unc.edu or mail it to: Volunteer Services, 2201 S. Sterling St., Morganton, NC 28655.
Important Note: Students interested in internships, shadowing opportunities, or exploring healthcare careers should contact Human Resources directly at (828) 580-5614. Be sure to ask for the Academic Experience Coordinator to learn more about available opportunities.
