The Vital Role of Volunteers in Texas Hospitals

The holiday season, or the season of giving, is an opportunity to think about how we can make a difference in our communities. One meaningful way to give back is by volunteering at a local hospital, where small acts of kindness can have a profound impact on patients, families, and health care staff. From delivering flowers to assisting at the registration desk, hospital volunteers play a vital role in creating a supportive and compassionate environment for patients, and an added level of support for health care staff working during the holiday season.

“Hospital volunteers are the heart of our health care system, providing compassion, support, and countless hours of service that strengthen the care we deliver to our communities,” shared John Hawkins, president/CEO of the Texas Hospital Association. “Their dedication ensures that Texas hospitals can go beyond medical treatment to truly make a difference in the lives of patients and their families.”

Volunteering in hospitals can take many forms, with opportunities tailored to fit various interests and skills. Volunteers might greet patients and visitors at the front desk, assist with administrative tasks, work in hospital gift shops, deliver flowers and cards to patients, or provide comfort to families waiting during procedures. Some volunteers may even assist with special events or help transport patients within the hospital. The tasks vary by hospital and department, offering a range of ways to contribute.

At Dell Children’s Medical Center in Austin, volunteering is focused on creating an environment where pediatric patients can feel like kids. With over 400 active volunteers, the Volunteer Services Program at Dell Children’s features a diverse group of students and non-students, heavily drawing from The University of Texas’ pre-med and pre-health community. Volunteers play a crucial role in connecting patients to the outside world, assuring them that they are not alone and have support.

“I firmly believe I have the best job in the hospital,” said Lauren Powell, director of volunteer and guest services at Dell Children’s. “Every individual on our volunteer team, from our dedicated clowns to our aspiring medical students, is passionate about serving our patients.”

Dedicated volunteers provide invaluable support to both administrative staff and patients in several capacities, including:

Assistance at the bedside, offering companionship and support when parents cannot be present. By reading, crafting, and simply spending time with patients, they help bridge the gap and provide much-needed comfort.
Volunteers with certified therapy dogs bring joy and comfort to patients. Each dog has its own trading card, and many patients aim to collect a full set.
The Dell Children’s hospital clown, Apples, has been a beloved figure since the hospital’s inception. She uses bubble therapy, magic tricks, and silly songs to bring smiles to every patient’s face.
External groups like the Assistance League, a nonprofit organization of volunteers who run a thrift store and purchase new toys to fill our toy cart for patients.
At major events, such as the hospital’s Holiday Village, volunteers help receive and organize donations, wrap presents, and deliver those presents to children.

Powell also noted the mutual benefits of the program, adding, “this incredible program not only benefits our patients but also provides valuable learning experiences for students and retirees alike.”

Hospital volunteers at Dell Children’s Medical Center in Austin.

At the heart of hospital volunteerism in Texas is the Texas Association of Healthcare Volunteers (TAHV), an organization that has long championed the value and power of giving back. TAHV connects individuals dedicated to enhancing health care facilities across the state, ensuring that the spirit of giving continues long after the holiday decorations come down.

TAHV unites people across the state with one shared goal: making a difference. Whether supporting hospital gift shops, providing clerical assistance, or serving as compassionate companions to patients, volunteers are integral to hospital operations. In addition to their time and energy, these individuals contribute financially, creating scholarships and funding initiatives that strengthen health care services in their communities.

“TAHV is a group of highly talented and dedicated individuals who contribute a wealth of expertise from their prior careers to support hospitals and health care organizations—at no cost. They dedicate countless hours volunteering at all levels within their institutions, award thousands of dollars in health care scholarships and raise substantial funds annually for equipment and programs,” explained Pat Sowder, who has worked alongside TAHV for more than two decades and currently sits on the TAHV Board.

“Far from the outdated image of ‘blue-haired ladies,’ TAHV members are a vibrant and essential part of the health care communities they serve,” she added.

More than just volunteering in hospitals, TAHV president Mary Pfeffer explained the value TAHV provides in connecting hospital volunteers across the state.

John Hawkins, CEO of the Texas Hospital Association, prepares to speak to hospital volunteers.

Hospital volunteers attending a meeting at the Texas Hospital Association.

THA President/CEO John Hawkins addresses hospital volunteers at Texas Association of Healthcare Volunteers regional meeting in Austin.

“Our annual district meetings and annual conference are two of our most impactful gatherings. During those events, hospital volunteers from across hospitals and health care systems from across Texas come together to share stories, discuss best practices, problem-solve challenges, and brainstorm additional ways to give back.”

She added that the face-to-face time between TAHV and current hospital volunteers is invaluable to carrying on the organization’s mission to support volunteer organizations by providing educational opportunities to enhance the delivery of health care services.

“Volunteers take pride in their community service because they get so much in return from their act of giving of their time. A smile can change the day of a patient, family or staff member,” Pfeffer shared.

A hospital volunteer sitting at a desk and entering form data on a computer keyboard.

Hospital volunteers help with all sorts of duties, including serving popcorn.

Hospital volunteers at Medical Center Hospital in Odessa.

TAHV continues to advocate for this essential work, encouraging people of all ages and backgrounds to bring their talents and energy to hospitals across the state. Their unwavering dedication ensures that, despite any challenges, the future of health care volunteerism in Texas remains bright.

For those looking for a way to give back this holiday season, in 2025, or beyond, consider volunteering at your local hospital. Those interested in volunteering typically need to complete an application process, which may include background checks, interviews, and orientation sessions to ensure they are prepared to support the hospital’s needs. To identify hospitals and potential volunteer programs near you, visit THA’s Directory of Texas Hospitals.