Lake Regional Health System announced on March 16 that it is now accepting applications for its 2026 Junior Volunteer Program, inviting students ages 14 to 18 to participate. The program offers young people the chance to gain experience while supporting patients and staff throughout the health system.
The initiative aims to provide students with exposure to health care environments and help them develop important skills. Students interested in attending the first orientation must submit their application by Wednesday, March 18. The initial orientation session will take place from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on Monday, March 23 at Lake Regional Health System, located at 54 Hospital Drive in Osage Beach.
“Our Junior Volunteer program gives students an opportunity to learn about health care while supporting patients, staff and the community we serve,” said Christina Hankinson, Lake Regional Volunteer Services coordinator. “Through the program, students build confidence, learn responsibility and gain hands-on experience that prepares them for future opportunities.”
Junior volunteers assist hospital staff with basic tasks on patient floors and in support departments. Their responsibilities may include assembling packets, delivering meal trays, visiting with patients, performing light housekeeping duties, and helping with other support activities. Schedules are flexible; the Auxiliary office works with each student to coordinate hours around school and extracurricular commitments.
Students who complete at least 50 hours of service receive service pins and certificates recognizing their contributions. Qualified volunteers may also obtain letters of recommendation for college or scholarship applications. “Colleges and scholarship committees look for students who show initiative and community involvement,” Hankinson said. “Volunteering is a meaningful way for students to demonstrate leadership and compassion.”
Applications can be completed online at lakeregional.com/Volunteers and require information as well as a signature from a parent or guardian. All volunteers must attend a one-day orientation before beginning service. Additional orientation dates are scheduled for May 25 and June 8.
