Ways to Help
Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, our volunteer programs (including our Summer High School Volunteer Program) are paused until further notice. Please see the Friends of Strong website for updates as opportunities become available.
Plan a Performance or Activity for Patients
Performances and activities provide meaningful experiences for the patients and families of Golisano Children’s Hospital. Guidelines must be adhered to for all events in order to best respect our patients while enhancing the event experience for patients, families, and participating donors. Please read the guidelines carefully before submitting an application. After the application is reviewed a child life representative will be in contact with you. Please note that completion of an application does not guarantee acceptance or scheduling.
If you have any questions please email CLSpecialEvents@urmc.rochester.edu.
Contribute Money
We do accept donations of funds to help support the ongoing activities offered both in the hospital and in the out-patient areas. Many of the items in the play areas have been graciously donated by the community.
Visit the Golisano Children's Hospital Giving site to make an online donation.
Volunteer Your Time
Pediatric volunteers play an important role in the healthcare experience of many children and families by sharing of their time and talents. A hospitalized child or teen can be fearful, anxious, and lonely. Friendly, caring volunteers help make this a more positive experience. Volunteers spend their time in a variety of tasks, from rocking an infant to chatting with an adolescent to handing out toys donated through the Pirate Fund. Their time and commitment are greatly appreciated by both families and staff. Parents or guardians often need a break or are simply not able to be here all of the time and the presence of a volunteer can make a big difference.
Volunteers come from all walks of life, but generally must be 18 years of age or older. We ask for a minimum of a weekly, one year commitment or a weekly, 2 semester commitment (for college students). Opportunities for high school students exist in the drop-in care and sibling watch program during the summer's 10 week program.
For more information, please call Friends of Strong at (585) 275-2420.
Donate Items
View our Holiday Wish List for information on how to donate toys this holiday season!
Join Sandy's Friends - Be a Part of a Community Event
If you are interested in being a part of a community fundraising event, join Sandy's Friends to learn more.