Carolina Pediatric Attention Love and Support (CPALS) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization composed of UNC students dedicated to supporting UNC Hospitals’ Hematology-Oncology patients, their families, and healthcare workers. Established in 2007, our mission is to create trusting, supportive relationships with pediatric patients and their families.
CPALS can apply to become UNC Hospital volunteers (via a separate UNC Hospitals application). After spending a semester volunteering in a pediatric setting, such as the Hematology-Oncology Clinic or the Inpatient Pediatric Playroom, they may apply to be a 1:1 Pal. CPALS who become 1:1 Pals are paired with one pediatric cancer patient and their family and have the opportunity to provide fun, positivity, and psychosocial support throughout the patient’s treatment, including inpatient stays and outpatient clinic visits. This relationship is deeply meaningful for both our patients and our volunteers!
However, being a hospital volunteer is not a CPALS membership requirement—we have many opportunities for involvement outside of directly patient-facing experiences. CPALS support the pediatric hematology-oncology inpatient and clinic environments in other ways, including the annual Festival of Hope, special Sibling Clinic Days, and more. CPALS also host fundraisers and events that support UNC’s Division of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology and its psychosocial support programming. These events take place throughout the year and include clinic-decorating days, benefit nights, collaborative retreats with Victory Junction, and more.
Interested in Joining?
The CPALS application opens around the beginning of each semester. To be considered, prospective members must:
Complete the application form AND
Attend one of our interest meetings.
More information about each semester’s application window can be found on our Instagram, @unc_cpals.
Please note: This opportunity does not specifically provide medical exposure or education but is focused on supporting pediatric families during their treatment experience. Please do not apply for CPALS if you are simply looking for an organization to add to your resume. Our patients have life-threatening/chronic illnesses and rely on your commitment and attention. They value your friendship and look forward to your visits. We ask that you take this commitment seriously, and decide, before you apply, that you are able to maintain the commitment required to be a CPAL.
We look forward to meeting you!
Hosted by: Carolina Pediatric Attention Love and Support
Additional Information can be found at: https://heellife.unc.edu/event/11376269