Volunteer at Kootenai Health
Before You Apply
A few things to know:
Ages 14+
Volunteer opportunities for teens and adults.
Consistent commitment
Minimum six-month commitment and 100 service hours.
Flexible scheduling
Most volunteers serve about four hours weekly.
Weekday opportunities
Most volunteer needs are Monday through Friday during regular business hours.
Not job shadowing
Volunteer roles do not include internships or clinical shadowing.
Giving Back. Finding Community.
Kootenai Health is proud to have one of the strongest hospital volunteer programs in the Northwest. Our volunteers play an important role in the caring, compassionate experience people have come to expect from us across North Idaho.
Whether offering a friendly smile, helping patients find their way or stepping in with an extra set of hands, volunteers make a meaningful difference for patients, families and staff every day. Along the way, many build lasting friendships and discover the fulfillment that comes from helping others and being part of something bigger than themselves.
Volunteer Applications
Adult Volunteers
Use your time and experience to support your community.
Adult volunteers support patients, visitors and staff throughout Kootenai Health in meaningful, hands-on ways. Whether you’re retired, looking to give back or hoping to stay connected to your community, there are many ways to get involved.
Teen Volunteers
Explore healthcare while making a difference.
Teen volunteers ages 14–17 gain experience in a professional healthcare environment and learn about the health care industry while impacting the lives of patients and their families.
Give the Gift of Time
Looking for flexible, event-based or project volunteer opportunities?
What Happens After You Apply
Step 1 | Submit an Application
Complete the volunteer application for the program that best fits you.
Step 2 | Application Review
Our Volunteer Services team reviews applications based on current openings and organizational needs.
Step 3 | Interview & Next Steps
If an opportunity is available, we’ll contact you to discuss next steps and potential placement opportunities.
Applications may be kept on file for up to six months if openings are not immediately available.
Volunteer Commitment
Consistency matters for our patients and teams.
Volunteers are important representatives of Kootenai Health, helping create a welcoming, supportive experience for the patients, families and staff who rely on us every day.
Because of the important role volunteers play across our organization, we ask for:
- A minimum commitment of six months
- 100 service hours during that time
- About four hours of service each week
We understand life looks different for everyone, and schedules can often flex around work, school and other responsibilities. Some of our volunteers are seasonal residents or “snowbirds,” and we’re often able to accommodate those schedules when volunteers plan to return year after year.
Before applying, we encourage you to ask yourself:
- Do I have a sincere desire to help others?
- Can I consistently commit to one shift every week?
We’re fortunate to have strong interest in our volunteer program, and at times there may be more applicants than available openings. If a position is not immediately available, applications may be kept on file until an opportunity becomes available.
Questions Before Applying?
Volunteer Services
Volunteer FAQs
How old do I need to be to volunteer?
Volunteer opportunities are available for ages 14 and older.
What volunteer shifts are available?
Most volunteer opportunities take place Monday through Friday during daytime and early evening hours, though some weekend shifts may also be available.
Can I volunteer seasonally?
In some cases, yes. We can often accommodate seasonal residents or “snowbirds” who plan to return consistently year after year.
What happens after I apply?
Applications are reviewed based on current volunteer openings and organizational needs. If a position is not immediately available, applications may be kept on file for up to six months.
Will I be able to shadow a doctor or nurse, or have clinical experience?
We do not offer job shadowing or internships through our volunteer programs, nor can we create a position based on personal or professional goals. We have specific volunteer roles that enhance the services we provide.
I would like to find employment at Kootenai Health, does volunteering guarantee me a job?
We do not recommend volunteering in an attempt to secure employment at Kootenai Health. Volunteering does not guarantee employment. If you are interested in a paid position at Kootenai Health, please visit: