Volunteer Opportunities at St. Mary's Health Care System

St. Mary's Health Care System offers a variety of volunteer opportunities for individuals looking to give back to their community. Whether you are a student, an adult, or interested in hospice care, we have volunteer programs that fit your interests and schedule. We proudly serve the Athens-Clarke, Banks, Barrow, Elbert, Franklin, Greene, Hart, Jackson, Madison, Morgan, Oconee, Oglethorpe, and Walton counties.


Volunteer at St. Mary's and make a mark on your community.

Volunteer Programs


Volunteer service areas at St. Mary's

Volunteer Service Areas


  • Escort Service: Guide patients and families to their destinations within the hospital.
  • Emergency Department Support: Assist patients and visitors in the Emergency Department.
  • Gift Shop: Help with daily operations and customer service.
  • Pet Therapy: Provide comfort through pet visits.
  • Thrift Store: Assist with store operations, donations, and sales.
  • Visitor Information Desk: Welcome visitors, direct them, and answer inquiries.
  • Morning Sunshine Service: Deliver coffee, juice, and newspapers to patients.
  • Fundraising/Special Events: Support annual campaigns and special events.

Volunteer Benefits

  • Employee pricing at St. Mary’s Wellness Center
  • Gift shop discounts
  • Free flu shots each fall
  • Invitations to select employee events, including the annual staff Christmas celebration
  • Appreciation luncheons and milestone gifts
  • Free fountain drink from St. Mary’s Café during each shift

benefits of volunteering at St. mary's

How to Become a Volunteer

  • Adult Auxiliary: $15 annual dues required.
  • Student volunteers must provide immunization records and a recent TB test result.

Conducted virtually or in-person with the Volunteer Coordinator.

  • Required before approval.
  • All volunteers must be fully vaccinated against flu and COVID-19 or complete a declination.
  • Online and in-person training is required.
  • Duration varies (4-16 hours based on role).

Adult Auxiliary – 60 hours a year 

Student Volunteers – 25 hours a semester

Frequently asked questions about volunteering at st. mary's

Frequently Asked Questions


How much time is required? 

Most volunteers serve a weekly or bi-weekly three-hour shift. Student volunteers must complete at least 25 hours per semester. 

Are volunteers accepted on a first-come, first-served basis? 

No. Volunteers are placed based on availability and scheduling. 

What if my class schedule changes? 

Students must commit to a set schedule each semester. 

Where can I obtain my MMR vaccine record? 

From your personal physician, the university health center (UGA students), or your local health department.

Contact Information


For additional inquiries, please contact: 

St. Mary’s Health Care System

Melissa McDaniel, Volunteer Services Coordinator
1230 Baxter Street, Athens, GA 30606-3791
Phone: (706) 389-3892
Email: melissa.l.mcdaniel@stmarysathens.org

Make a change in your community