The Ronald McDonald House Charities provides support services for families with critically ill children who are being treated at Richmond-area hospitals. Through a partnership with VCU Health and the Child Development Center, The Ronald McDonald House Sibling Center is located in the Children’s Pavilion at VCU. We are looking for dedicated, adult volunteers (18 or older) to engage siblings in the Sibling Center with age-appropriate activities. The Ronald McDonald House Sibling Center operates during daytime hours on Monday through Friday soday time availability during weekdays is required.

Impacts and Outcomes:

This is a hands-on opportunity that allows volunteers to engage with siblings of patients receiving care at the Children’s Pavilion at VCU. Parents are able to focus on the child receiving treatment while volunteers engage the sibling with age-appropriate activities.

Key Responsibilities:

• Welcome children to the Sibling Center and engage them in age-appropriate activities
• Activities might include talking, listening, reading, art, games, and comforting/rocking
• Organize materials, stock supplies for activities, and clean up after activities

Commitment:

• Volunteers must commit to a weekly 3-hour shift for at least 6 months
• Shifts occur Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm or 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm

Training and Support:

• General orientation is covered by Volunteer Services
• Orientation to the Sibling Center and training for the role will be provided by Sibling Center team members

Qualifications:

• Volunteers must have a caring attitude and the ability to work patiently with a variety of ages
• Volunteers must be comfortable interacting with children ages 3-14 years (most participants will be 3-8 years old)
• Volunteers must be able to communicate well with children and adults
• Prior experience with children, personally or professionally, is preferred

If you are a student, please visit VCU Health for more information about student programs.