Vanderbilt Clarksville Hospital is now accepting applications for its summer 2026 VolunTeen program. High school students ages 14 to 18 are encouraged to apply for an opportunity to experience real-world health care, build meaningful connections, and contribute to the well-being of patients, families and staff.
Youth volunteering has deep roots in Clarksville. Beginning in the mid-1960s, candy stripers served as volunteer nurses’ aides at the hospital — assisting clinical staff and providing support on the floors. Many went on to pursue careers in health care. Today’s VolunTeen program carries forward that tradition of service, offering students a window into the many roles that make a hospital community thrive, from reception desks and central supply to nursing floors and the gift shop.
Three sessions will be offered this summer. Two one-week sessions are available — June 1-5 and June 8-12 — each accepting up to 20 participants. Students must attend all five days, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. A senior session is also available for up to 10 students, requiring a minimum of 40 hours completed during June and July; seniors will work directly with Volunteer Services to set their schedules.
Applications are available at https://www.volgistics.com/appform/1024026665. The online application packet must be submitted by Friday, April 10. Applicants selected for an interview will be notified by email; interviews will be held mid-April, with acceptance notifications sent on or before May 15. All participants are expected to complete onboarding and follow the safety protocols of Vanderbilt Clarksville Hospital.
For more information, contact Volunteer Services at 931-502-1055 or shelby.banks@vumc.org.
