Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get started volunteering?

To find out about the history of the House, an in-depth look at our volunteer positions available, the process it takes to become a volunteer and take a tour of the House, you can sign up for a volunteer information session that is held once a month.  To sign up for a session please contact Michelle Mungar Lumley, Volunteer Coordinator at Michelle@rmhsouthernalberta.org or at 403-240-3000 ext 113.

What type of environment can I expect when I volunteer at The House?

The families that seek accommodation at Ronald McDonald House are often facing potentially life threatening and/or terminal illnesses.  The ill child may be inpatient at a Calgary hospital or be staying in the House with parents and/or siblings, depending on the status of their medical condition.  While in the House it may be possible that the child will have a shaved/bald head, as well as various tubes or medical equipment.  Most families are under extreme stress and the volunteer and staff team strive to provide a supportive and compassionate place of hope for families.  While volunteers can provide a listening ear, they are not intended to act as counselors for the families. 

How do you screen volunteers?

Ronald McDonald House^® Southern Alberta has a screening process for our volunteers to ensure the safety of the families that we serve.  Our screening process includes an application form, interview, reference checks, and successful completion of a police security clearance and child welfare clearance.

How long does the screening process take? When can I start volunteering?

Police and child welfare checks can take up to 6 weeks to come back, however we do allow you to start volunteering once your reference checks are complete as long as you have signed the volunteer statement of understanding.

What time commitment do I need to make to volunteer at Ronald McDonald House?

Ronald McDonald House^® Southern Alberta requires a minimum of one shift per week for the Front Host position and the level of commitment for all other volunteer positions is flexible.

Do you have volunteer positions working directly with children?

The majority of our volunteer positions work behind the scenes to support the families.  During the course of these volunteer positions there may be some contact with the families, but direct programming for the families is provided by the Family Service staff team.

Do I need to be over the age of 18 to volunteer?

We accept applications from anyone from the ages of 16 and up. There are limited opportunities available to those between the ages of 16-18.

Do you have group volunteer opportunities?

The House has a few limited group volunteer opportunities for groups no larger than 10 people. Please contact Michelle Mungar Lumley, Volunteer Coordinator for further information.