Volunteer in La Crosse
Volunteers are an integral part of our healthcare team. They interact with patients and families, helping with wayfinding and transport. They provide comfort to cancer and hospice patients, and hospitality to anyone who comes through the front doors of our hospital or clinic needing information or assistance.
We welcome a wide age range of volunteers, from students who are passionate about helping others to seniors who have a wealth of experience to share. Each makes unique, invaluable contributions to the experiences of our patients and staff through their service.
We welcome energetic, compassionate people who want to make a difference in others' lives by sharing their time and talent.
How do I get started?
Adults
Adult volunteers must be 18 or older and able to commit to volunteering on a regular basis.
Applications are accepted anytime. If you are a college student, please see the next section.
Complete the volunteer application.
College students
College student volunteers are ages 18–26 and currently enrolled in a college or university. A commitment of one shift per week for at least one full semester is required. These positions are extremely competitive, so not all students who apply and interview will be accepted. Students invited to participate will be placed in service areas based on our program needs.
Volunteering should not be viewed as a means of obtaining employment. If you are seeking a paid position, visit our Careers page.
Student applications are accepted during the:
- Summer Session 2025: April 28-May 2
- Fall Semester 2025: Aug. 4-8
- Spring Semester 2026: Dec. 8-12
Complete the volunteer application.
High school students
The high school volunteer program provides students ages 16–18 with experience in a health care setting. You must be able to commit to a regularly scheduled weekday shift for a minimum of 12 weeks or 30 hours, whichever is greater. While volunteering, your duties may include transporting patients to and from appointments. This program is extremely competitive, so not everyone who applies and interviews will be accepted. Students invited to participate will be placed in service areas based on need and qualifications.
Student applications are accepted during the:
- Summer Session 2025: April 28-May 2
- Fall Semester 2025: Aug. 4-8
- Spring Semester 2026: Dec. 8-12
Complete the volunteer application.
The volunteer onboarding process includes:
- Health screening conducted in our Employee Health Services Department (no cost to candidate)
- Successful verification of criminal background checks
- Completion of online orientation and related documents
- Photo ID taken at our photo studio
- Transporter screening (if volunteer will be transporting patients)
- Job shadowing volunteer role
Volunteer opportunities include:
- Eucharistic minister
- Hospice
- Information/Lobby support
- Occupational Therapy (students only)
- Oncology
- Patient companion support
- Patient transport
- Physical Therapy (students only)
- Safe Path (domestic violence support)