Since 1935, cancer patients in metropolitan Detroit have benefited from the care of thousands of devoted volunteers.
The Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute relies heavily on these caring members of our communities in dozens of important capacities to further its work of eradicating cancer while improving the lives of those diagnosed with the disease.
If you are interested in these or other capacities, please download, complete, sign and return the following forms:
Volunteer Application Form
Forms should be sent to:
Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute
Volunteer Administration and Guest Services
4100 John R., Mail Code (HPO20CVA)
Detroit, MI 48201
Volunteer Positions
The following are descriptions of a few Karmanos Cancer Institute volunteer opportunities. On-the-job training is provided for all positions. Most positions require volunteers during normal business working hours. In some circumstances, evening and weekend hours can be arranged.
Institute volunteers range in age from 18 to 100 throughout Michigan. Some have lost family members or friends to cancer; others are cancer survivors who, through their example, demonstrate success stories. Each has a commitment to the mission and goals of the Institute.
Volunteers serve a vital role in the integrated cancer system team. Institute volunteers are students, professionals, service club members, homemakers, medical students and retirees — all wanting to give their time and offer their assistance.
Since volunteer opportunities change and evolve continuously, this list describes more traditional placements. Volunteers who have special interests, expertise or experience are often placed in other roles.
The "skills needed" are listed after each position as a guide. In most cases a person needs to have only a few of those skills to help the Institute.
Breast & Cervical Cancer Control Program
Volunteers assist women with no health insurance enroll in a program that provides free breast and cervical exams. This program makes telephone calls, arranges transportation and provides personal support.
Skills Needed:
- Good telephone and communication skills
- Interpersonal skills
- Attention to detail
- Data entry
- Recordkeeping
Locations:
- Various throughout southeastern Michigan
Clinical Patient Support
Volunteers provide assistance and guidance to help patients and their families in outpatient and inpatient settings.
Skills Needed:
- Sensitivity to the needs of others
- Good problem solving skills
- Physically fit
- Comfortable in a hospital environment
- Ability to work with ill and frail individuals
Locations:
- Wertz Cancer Center (outpatient), Detroit
- Gershenson Center (outpatient), Detroit
- Cancer Hospital/Harper University Hospital (inpatient), Detroit
Special Projects
A list of volunteers is maintained and called upon, as needed, for special projects, including assistance with local health fairs, fundraisers, and special events such as Race for the Cure®.
Skills Needed:
- Ability to work with people and in a team environment
Locations:
- Various throughout southeastern Michigan
NetLearning Modules
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