Volunteer at Isabella
Isabella continues to do all that we can to help ensure the safety and well-being of our residents and staff in the face of this unprecedented crisis and also continues to follow state and federal guidelines for infection control.
Click here for the latest Isabella Center COVID-19 updates.
Isabella Center Volunteer Opportunities
Are You Ready to Volunteer at Isabella Center?
Click here for a Volunteer Application.
For more information about our volunteer programs, call 212-342-9351 or email [email protected].
Isabella Center Needs You!
We are seeking creative and enthusiastic volunteers to enrich the lives of residents that live at Isabella, a 705-bed nursing home. Whether you’re a student seeking credit, recently retired, in a career transition, or feel compelled to better serve your community, Isabella presents the opportunity to manifest your knowledge and talents in one of our many volunteer programs.
Involvement
Explore the benefits of giving your time in our many departments. Although we offer a variety of health care services to our residents, you may also contribute in a non-medical capacity.
Available areas of assistance include (but are not limited to):
- Physical and Occupational Therapy/Rehabilitation
- Nursing
- Therapeutic Recreation
- Clerical Support
Our volunteers are regularly thanked and formally recognized for their outstanding service at our annual volunteer dinner. Your gift of time brings immense comfort to the many lives touched throughout the year.
Commitment
Isabella asks that volunteers commit to at least three months or 150 hours of service. This period of time affords the volunteer the opportunity to make the most out of their invaluable contribution. Upon completion of service, volunteers will be eligible for letters of recommendation to school or potential employers.
Volunteer Requirements
- At least 14 years of age, unless accompanied by an adult
- Commit to serving a minimum of 150 hours
- Have a 20-minute interview
- Attend a 2-hour orientation
- Hand in a copy of a physical form within 12 months (or immunization record for minors) [You may interview before turning in your physical but may not begin volunteering until we have your physical]
Frequently Asked Questions About Volunteering
How can I become a volunteer? What is the process?
In order to volunteer, please complete and submit our online application. You will receive an automated email listing the next steps that you must complete in order to volunteer. The first is to call the Volunteer Office at 212-342-9351 to schedule an interview. After the interview, the volunteer staff will advise you on the next steps of the process.
I submitted the application. What do I do now?
Please call the Volunteer Office at 212-342-9351 to schedule an interview. You may also send an email with a day and time to [email protected].
Is there a time commitment?
We ask you to commit to at least a 150 hours of service. This amount of time allows you to have a meaningful experience at Isabella and contribute your invaluable services
Why do I need a physical?
We need a medical clearance from your doctor to provide us with proof that you have received all of your immunizations, including the PPD test for tuberculosis to ensure you are in good physical health.
*Please note that if your PPD test is positive, you must have a chest x-ray and provide us with proof of clearance.
*Please note that each year during flu season, you must provide documentation to prove you have received the flu shot. If not, you will be required to wear a surgical mask when interacting with residents.
Will I get a job at Isabella after I volunteer?
Being a volunteer does not guarantee you employment at Isabella. However, some volunteers have gone on to gain employment with us.
I only need 50 hours of community service, may I still volunteer?
Unfortunately, we can only accept volunteers who are able to commit to the 150-hour minimum.
Can I get a recommendation letter after I volunteer?
If you complete the 150-hour minimum requirement and complied with our rules and regulations, we can provide you with a recommendation letter.
What are the steps to volunteer with a group?
One time:
Contact the Volunteer Office with the specific day, time and size of the group. If there is an activity that your group would like to engage the residents with, discuss it with the Volunteer Staff. You will be advised on the subsequent process.
Ongoing:
Please complete the Group Volunteering Application. Then, the group leader should call the Volunteer Office to schedule a meeting to discuss their interests in volunteering as a group.
What is the process to volunteer as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)?
In order to volunteer as a CNA, you must be licensed from the State of New York and provide us with a copy of your license.
*Isabella does not renew CNA licenses. CNAs must do this on their own.
What are the shifts to volunteer as a CNA?
CNAs may choose the days that they wish to volunteer, but they must volunteer during one of the below listed shifts:
7:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
9:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
3:30 p.m. – 11:30 p.m.
5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
5:00 p.m. – 11:30 p.m.
What is the dress code?
Resident Care Volunteers:
- Volunteer ID badge
- Smock/apron
- Shorts allowed (knee length)
- NO ripped clothing
- NO hats, excessive jewelry or body piercing, long/acrylic nails
- Closed-toe shoes
CNA Volunteers:
- Dress in all white
- Volunteer ID badge
- Closed-toe shoes
Non-Resident Care Volunteers:
- Business-casual attire
- Closed-toed shoes
- Volunteer ID badge
- NO shorts
