Become a Volunteer

patient petting dog with volunteers

Thank you for your interest in volunteering at Burke. Volunteers make a huge difference in the lives of our patients, staff and visitors. We have over 100 Burke Volunteers - students, former patients, young adults interested in the medical field, friends or family of patients, community member - we are grateful for our Volunteers who share their time with us. We offer a wide variety of volunteer positions and do our best to match each volunteer in a role that is meaningful and rewarding.

"My experience volunteering at Burke has exceeded my expectations. Burke is a friendly and caring environment. I always look forward to the time I spend at Burke."

-- Mary Ellen Smith,
Burke Volunteer since 2022


Volunteer Opportunities

  • Patient Ambassadors
  • Caregiver Center Ambassadors
  • Friendly Visitors
  • Gift Shop
  • Call Bell Volunteers
  • Outpatient Volunteers
  • Canine Therapy
  • Books on Wheels
  • Art on Wheels
  • Music
  • Patient Transport
  • Eucharistic Ministers
  • Sunday Mass Volunteers
  • Flowers
  • Cards of Cheer *virtual project*
  • Administrative/AD Hoc Projects

What do I have to do to become a Burke Volunteer?

  • Must be at least 16 years old
  • Must have a flu shot
  • Must get medical forms filled out by primary care physician, including a TB test
  • Must get a drug test done at Quest lab
  • Ages 16 and 17 – must submit working papers
  • Ages 18 and older – must pass a background check
  • Must commit to at least 2 hours per week

Burke Bridges

Take an active role in giving back to Burke as a member of Burke Bridges. Founded as the Auxiliary in 1959, and renamed Burke Bridges in 2024, this group has since donated over $1 million to special projects at Burke.

The mission of Burke Bridges is to:

  • Enhance the patient and staff experience
  • Serve as a fundraising arm for the hospital
  • Promote better understanding of Burke within the community

Benefits of Membership

As a valued member of Burke Bridges you can:

  • Help raise money for critical initiatives
  • Enjoy events and activities throughout the year, including luncheons, holiday celebrations and more
  • Meet a like-minded and dedicated group of volunteers

Become a Member

Annual dues are $35 for an individual and $60 for a couple. Fill out a membership form [PDF] or reach out to Frances DeFreitas, Membership Chair, at (914) 948-0978 with any questions.

Why I Give Back to Burke

“Burke was a name I always heard growing up. My mother had been a patient in her 30s and always said she lasted another 50 years because of Burke. When I moved to White Plains, just up the road from Burke, I became involved and have been for over 20 years in my mother’s honor. "

—Peg Cataldo, Co-President, Burke Bridges Board of Directors

"I am so happy that I volunteer at Burke. After retiring from the White Plains School District I needed a few hours of helping and serving in my community. I am Treasurer of the Auxiliary, a Board member and work as Bookkeeper for all our financial work. The staff is wonderful, so friendly and responsive. It makes me feel so great to say hello to the patients and staff, making each day special for them."

- Laura Amadio, Treasurer, Burke Bridges Board of Directors

Interested in Volunteering?

For more information, please contact Robin Goldberg, Director of Volunteers, at robingoldb@burke.org or (914) 597-2132.

Get Involved

Your involvement makes a direct difference in the lives of our patients and their families. Participate in the many activities, programs and volunteer opportunities available and see this impact in action.