Interested in joining PALS as a volunteer?
To join PALS and attend births, you need to be trained as a doula through a recognized organization. You do not need to be certified as a doula, but you need at least have a certificate stating that you have completed training.
Please have a picture of your certificate of training ready to upload to the sign-up form.
What is Expected of PALS Members?
Volunteer organizations like PALS can only service and provide services to the community through the commitment and energy of active members.
Active members are expected to:
- Support births by signing up for on-call shifts, accepting prenatal clients, or responding to email requests from nurses.
- Complete and upload the PALS Consent Form with each client.
- Complete the PALS Birth Record Form after each birth attended.
What are the Benefits of Becoming a PALS Member?
Supplies: The HUP L&D floor is fully stocked with many supplies from birth balls and peanut balls to essential oils. Check with staff upon arrival to request use.
Resources: All PALS members receive access to a digital library of resources such as sample birth plans, tips and tricks for doulas, lists of what to bring to a birth, and important positions to remember. We highly encourage all PALS doulas to attend a hospital orientation!
Network: Meet other doulas in the community and keep skills up-to-date with in-person community meetings, events, and additional classes ranging from anti-racism to rebozo skills.
Mentorship: We support all PALS doulas who are looking for doula mentors. If you are interested in being a mentor, or if you are looking to receive a mentor, please fill out the PALS Mentorship Sign-Up Form.
Service: All birthing people deserve access to a doula. PALS believes finances should not be a barrier. Be notified when potential clients are looking for doulas and get increased opportunities to attend and support births for free of charge.
How Can I Support Clients?
PALS On-Call Doula Program: We provide 24-hour on-call doula services to those delivering at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania. Doulas can be on call for 6-hour shifts, 8-hour shifts, or 12-hour shifts and are called in by HUP Staff. As a PALS doula, you would receive access to the calendar to pick up a shift. If a person in labor is requesting a doula but there is no one on shift, all PALS doulas receive a notification and can show up to support.
PALS Prenatal Match-Up Program: We allow clients to meet with doulas in advance to discuss birth options and explore childbirth education needs as the client navigates pregnancy. Doulas will be on-call to attend the client’s birth from 2 weeks before to 2 weeks after the client’s estimated due date.
If you are interested in virtual doula support, please contact us at palsdoulas@gmail.com to learn more.