UCBC Cares Foundation Why We Volunteer

Why volunteer with UCBC Cares?

As a volunteer, you are the bridge between UCBC and the community. The care and support our patients receive through volunteer programming can be life-changing.

Why volunteer with UCBC Cares?

As a volunteer, you are the bridge between UCBC and the community. The care and support our patients receive through volunteer programming can be life-changing.

UCBC Cares Foundation Why We Volunteer
UCBC Cares Foundation Coffee Cart Volunteers

Making a Difference – one smile at a time

We thrive because of dedicated volunteers who give their time and compassion to support patients and their families. Whether offering a warm welcome, assisting at events, or helping behind the scenes, their impact is invaluable. Join our volunteer community and be a part of something bigger—because together, Community is Stronger than Cancer.

Making a Difference – one smile at a time

We thrive because of dedicated volunteers who give their time and compassion to support patients and their families. Whether offering a warm welcome, assisting at events, or helping behind the scenes, their impact is invaluable. Join our volunteer community and be a part of something bigger—because together, Community is Stronger than Cancer.

UCBC Cares Foundation Coffee Cart Volunteers
UCBC Cares Foundation Tails of Hope Volunteers

Tails of Hope and Oncology Massage

The UCBC Cares Volunteer Program partners with the Alliance of Therapy Dogs to offer the “Tails of Hope” program, providing weekly visits from trained therapy dogs to bring comfort and joy to both patients and staff. In addition, our skilled oncology massage therapists volunteer their time each month to support patients receiving chemotherapy treatments. These programs are a powerful reflection of our mission, combining support and volunteerism to enhance the overall experience for our patients, caregivers, and staff.

Tails of Hope and Oncology Massage

The UCBC Cares Volunteer Program partners with the Alliance of Therapy Dogs to offer the “Tails of Hope” program, providing weekly visits from trained therapy dogs to bring comfort and joy to both patients and staff. In addition, our skilled oncology massage therapists volunteer their time each month to support patients receiving chemotherapy treatments. These programs are a powerful reflection of our mission, combining support and volunteerism to enhance the overall experience for our patients, caregivers, and staff.

UCBC Cares Foundation Tails of Hope Volunteers

Volunteer Testimonial

“From the start, I knew I was in an environment where I had the opportunity to grow. Everyone I met during my time in the volunteer program were so supportive and a joy to be around! I’ve always known that I want to pursue a career in medicine, and through this program, I was able to experience how Radiation and Medical Oncology work together and independently to provide optimal patient care. I enjoyed my time with UCBC’s volunteer program so much that I became a Medical Assistant in the Radiation department where I continued to learn about the amazing things UCBC does for their patients!” -MK Polite

 

Volunteer Testimonial

“From the start, I knew I was in an environment where I had the opportunity to grow. Everyone I met during my time in the volunteer program were so supportive and a joy to be around! I’ve always known that I want to pursue a career in medicine, and through this program, I was able to experience how Radiation and Medical Oncology work together and independently to provide optimal patient care. I enjoyed my time with UCBC’s volunteer program so much that I became a Medical Assistant in the Radiation department where I continued to learn about the amazing things UCBC does for their patients!” -MK Polite

 

 

240 Shifts Filled in 24 Hours: UCBC’s Volunteer Success Story with Volunteero

Check out the linked article to learn more about the growth of the UCBC Cares Volunteer Program and the incredible management software that has changed our lives for the better!

“Overview

The UCBC Cares Volunteer Program supports the University Cancer and Blood Center, an advanced oncology and hematology clinic in Athens, Georgia. UCBC provides a full spectrum of services, including radiation and medical oncology, advanced imaging, and state-of-the-art infusion care. Every day, dedicated volunteers help bring UCBC’s mission to life, enhancing the experience for patients and caregivers alike. Through compassionate roles such as Wayfinders, Infusion Volunteers, Administrative Support, and Radiation CT Simulation aides, they make a meaningful difference in the lives of those facing cancer. 

Read how Volunteer Coordinators Amy and Molly turned a frustrating volunteer management process into a thriving, high-impact program with Volunteero…”

The impact of caring

Caring comes in many shapes, sizes, and ways. Big and small the act of caring impacts us all.

Volunteer FAQS & Info

Why should I volunteer with the UCBC Cares Volunteer Program?
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As a volunteer in the UCBC Cares Foundation, you will play a key role in creating a comfortable and supportive environment for patients undergoing treatment, making a life-changing impact every single day.

You will have the opportunity to have a first-hand look into medical oncology treatment, patient interaction, administrative support, and will help bridge the gap between University Cancer and Blood Center and the community.

What does a typical volunteer shift look like?
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Volunteering can be a wide-ranging effort, but most often your time will look like:

  • Offer Comfort and Care: Greet patients, help them get settled, and provide blankets, snacks, and drinks.
  • Be a Source of Support: Answer questions about the infusion process, listen to patients, and offer emotional encouragement.
  • Provide Practical Assistance: Transport patients to and from the restroom, complete clerical tasks, and ensure a smooth experience.
Do I need prior experience to become a volunteer?
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You do not need prior experience! Whether you have volunteered in a clinical setting or not, the UCBC Cares Volunteer Program is an incredible opportunity to gain experience in patient interaction while making an impact on the community.

How do I become a College Volunteer?
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Thanks to the enthusiasm and commitment of our student volunteers, our College Volunteer Program is currently full.

Please fill out the interest form below to be contacted when openings become available.

College Volunteer Opportunities

How do I become a Community Volunteer?
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Our Volunteer Program would not be possible without the community members who so generously share their time with us. Thanks to the enthusiasm and commitment of our Community members, our Community Volunteer Program is currently full. To be contacted when spots become available, please fill out the interest form below, and our Volunteer Coordinator will be in touch soon.

To allow adequate time for emotional and physical healing, we ask applicants to wait at least 1 year after completing cancer treatment before applying to the UCBC Cares Volunteer Program.

Community Volunteers are community members over the age of 17 that are not enrolled in a university. If you are currently a college student, please utilize the form found at the “College Volunteer Opportunities” link.

Community Volunteer Opportunities

Start your volunteer journey

We can’t wait to have you on board helping serve, care, and love our community.

 

College Volunteer Opportunities CommunityVolunteer Opportunities

Join the care community where every single person matters.

Become a UCBC Cares Foundation partner today.

Ways to Give

 

UCBC Cares has been awarded the 2025 Silver Seal of Transparency.