Volunteer Training
Interview to determine interest and fit
8-week volunteer service program on inpatient floor
2-hour volunteer Cuddler orientation
12-hours cuddler training
1-hour guided infant code blue simulation
CHLA Volunteer Cuddlers are recruited from the existing established pool of active CHLA cuddlers. To be eligible to serve as a Volunteer Cuddler, all potential candidates must first complete a minimum of 64- hours of volunteer service to be eligible. To earn the title of “Volunteer Cuddler,” all prospects must also complete:
The 1-hour guided Infant Code Blue Simulation was added in addition to the 12-hour training program to further prepare Volunteer Cuddlers for emergencies. Because CHLA infant patients are medically fragile, Volunteer Cuddler training teaches techniques that are supportive in an appropriate medical setting. The 1-hour simulation mirrors the environment, look, and feel of holding a baby who stops breathing during a cuddle.
How To Help
I want to be a cuddler! How do I get started volunteering?
Click here to access the CHLA Volunteer information section. This page will give you the information to get started.
We do want to warn you that the volunteer list is very long, and it might take time to get through the initial volunteering process. As of right now, there is only ONE staff member running all of the hospital’s social programs, which leaves little time to train new volunteers. This is exactly what we are trying to change with the Koala Corps mission.
Do not be discouraged if you do not get through right now. There are still other ways to help! Please consider sharing our mission with your friends and family on social media so we can get this program funded and start accepting additional volunteers. Your support means the world to us!
What do Koala Corps donations go towards?
All donations for Koala Corps go towards a three-year commitment to a salaried position at CHLA. This person will train volunteers and run the program.