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Apply Today: DC VAMC Summer Youth Volunteer Program for Youth ages 14-17

Diverse group of hands together with text: Summer Youth Volunteer Program.

By Gloria Hairston, Director of Public Affairs

The Washington DC VA Medical Center’s Center for Development & Civic Engagement is seeking 75 youth, ages 14-17, who desire hands-on experience in a health care setting. Youth will develop administrative skills and gain health care experience in support of the VA mission.

Summer Youth Volunteer Program Overview:

The Washington DC VA Medical Center is looking to fill 75 volunteer positions with energetic youth, ages 14-17, as part of the Center for Development & Civic Engagement Summer Youth Volunteer Program at the Washington DC VA Medical Center. Volunteers will have the opportunity to learn as well as share and improve their talents while working in various departments of the medical center. Volunteers must complete and submit a resume, application, and a 500-word essay to Jami.Henderson@va.gov no later than Monday, April 15, 2026. 

Interested applicants must submit a 500-word essay addressing the following questions:

  1. What does volunteering mean to you?
  2. Why do you wish to volunteer with the Washington DC VA Medical Center?

Program Commitment  

 Volunteers will need to commit to serving 100 hours, 8:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m., Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, during the full program, June 23 to August 6, 2026.
 Please Note:  Applications will not be accepted from applicants who have scheduled vacation during the Summer Youth Program.

Program Description:

The Summer Youth Program volunteers’ responsibilities include completing tasks assigned by the supervisor, upholding the VA’s Core Values, and maintaining a high degree of professionalism. To be successful as a youth volunteer, you should take pride in your efforts, demonstrate active listening, arrive on time, follow instructions to ensure safe, quality care and operations. In addition, provide excellent customer service to Veterans, their caregivers, VA staff, and stakeholders.  

 Program Responsibilities

As volunteers in the Summer Youth Program, you will be responsible for:

  • Completing assigned tasks from your supervisor while upholding the VA’s Core Values and maintaining a high degree of professionalism.
  • Actively participating in training and seeking clarification on any responsibilities you may not understand.
  • Reporting any issues or concerns to your supervisor promptly.
  • Adhering to all organizational rules and safety regulations during your assignments.
  • Punctually attending your shifts and conducting yourself with professionalism in all interactions.
  • Delivering presentations or reports as needed.

Volunteer Requirements

To be eligible for the program, applicants must demonstrate:

  • A willingness to learn and collaborate effectively as part of a team.
  • High standards of professionalism and the ability to follow directions closely.
  • Respect, diligence, and a commitment to excellent customer service.
  • A friendly demeanor and an eagerness to help others.

Requirements:  

All participants shall be 14 to 17 years of age upon submission date, April 15, 2026. 

Dress Code: Business casual: Tan khaki pants, red polo-style shirt, and youth volunteer pins (pins are provided by DC VAMC)

Application Process:

Applicants must submit a student resume with the completed Voluntary Service Application form (Click Here)  and a 500-word essay that addresses the following questions: 

  1. What does volunteering mean to you?
  2. Why do you want to volunteer with the Washington DC VA Medical Center? 

 

Completed applications must be submitted to Jami.Henderson@va.gov by April 15, 2026.