Year-Round Program Volunteers

We welcome individuals and groups to assist in a variety of ways throughout the year. Most of these volunteer opportunities will take place at SAM Place, however we also have special events and programs throughout the state where volunteers may be needed. If you are interested in volunteering, please apply online. If you have questions, please email us at programs@smileamile.com. 

 *Volunteers may need to complete a background check in order to participate. 

Internships at Smile-A-Mile

Our Spring 2025 internship is now closed. Be on the lookout for our Summer 2025 application to become available in February. Please email programs@smileamile.com with any questions

We are proud to offer internships to college students and college graduates who are looking to further their understanding of non-profits and serving families in the medical setting. Interns will work alongside our programming team to plan and implement programming for patients at Smile-A-Mile Place and Children’s of Alabama.

Among the responsibilities of interns are the following tasks: planning and implementing developmentally appropriate activities and therapeutic interventions for Smile-A-Mile Place programming, including the Journey Continues bereavement group; providing patient support and engagement in the hospital setting; supporting staff in preparation for fundraising events.

For more information, please contact programs@smileamile.com.

Camp & Retreat Volunteers

Volunteer Info

Smile-A-Mile has five camps and retreats throughout the year:

  • Family Retreat
    • April
  • Sibling Camp
    • May/June
  • Youth Weeklong Camp
    • June
  • Teen Weeklong Camp
    • July
  • The Journey Continues Family Retreat

We strive to provide the best experience for the children and families we serve, therefore we choose the ‘best of the best’ volunteers. Our volunteers help make the ‘magic’ of Smile-A-Mile happen.

Volunteer Positions

  • Cabin Counselor – Depending on campers needs, each counselor will be assigned two to four campers for the duration of the camp session. You will sleep in the same cabin, provide guidance, safety, friendship and supervision.
  • Activity Counselor – Instruct or assist in one of the many program activities offered during a session. You do not have to be an expert for this position. This position allows you to meet all campers and volunteers throughout the week.
  • Medical Staff – Volunteer nurses and doctors that provide 24-hour health care to our campers and staff. Their job includes distributing medications and monitoring the health of all campers and staff. The doctors and nurses who attend camp are employees from Children’s of Alabama Hematology/Oncology Department.

Requirements

  • Must be 19 years of age or older
  • Applicants must be 21 or older for Teen weeklong camp sessions
  • All vaccinations must be up to date
  • Read, understand, and abide by the rules, policies and procedures found in the Camp Manual
  • Attend the mandatory training via Zoom (Date: TBD) 

Application Process

Thank you for your interest! Our 2024 application process is CLOSED.

Applications are accepted in January with interviews in February and March for new applicants.  If chosen, camp volunteers MUST attend a mandatory Volunteer Training via Zoom. Even if you are a returning volunteer, we ask that you complete this volunteer application.  After applying, all applicants will receive further information about interviews and any additional information needed.

Guest Activities

Interested in volunteering at camp but can’t commit to the whole session? We welcome individuals and groups to volunteer for a day during camp sessions. Guest activities have included sports, dancing, cooking and arts & crafts.

Please email programs@smileamile.com to discuss further volunteer options.

Fundraising Event Volunteers

Volunteers are essential to the success our annual fundraisers. We welcome individuals and groups from the community, as well as our SAM families and young adults to assist with these events. If you are interested in volunteering, please apply online.

Red Nose Ball – February

  • Saturday evening
  • Attire is all black
  • Volunteers assist with check-in and check-out, watching the Live & Silent Auction areas and spotting bidders for the Live Auction
  • View more about the Red Nose Ball

Smile-A-Mile 5K – August

  • Saturday early morning
  • Attire is casual
  • Volunteers assist with water stops, course directing and post-race games & activities
  • View more about the Run

Shop to Support

Shop our Wish List

  • Any $ amount – Hobby Lobby, Michaels, Lowe’s, Home Depot, Staples, Dick’s, Academy Sports & Outdoors
  • $10 – Walmart, Target, Starbucks, Chick-fil-A, Amazon
  • Visit our Amazon wish list to purchase specific items

Whether you have a group gift card drive, request gift cards in lieu of birthday gifts or just want to purchase some on your own, this is a great way to support SAM!

SAM Online Store

Shop for SAM swag and a portion of your purchase comes back to us!

Shop now!