This volunteer role is behind the scenes. You may not interact with families during your shift.
House Volunteers
Be the reason our families smile.
As a House Volunteer, you make a direct and immediate impact on children and families in their moment of greatest need. You’ll check guestrooms, help with light cleaning, organize donations, and complete other tasks as needed so families can focus on what matters most – their sick children.
As a volunteer, you’re the heart of our House! We are always looking for new volunteers who have a passion for our mission and the flexibility to help with a variety of tasks to keep things running smooth.
Some typical volunteer responsibilities include:
- Welcoming guests and answering family questions about the House
- Helping them find supplies or other resources
- Cleaning, restocking, and organizing common spaces, kitchens, and storage areas
- Preparing guestrooms for the arrival of new families
- Simple household tasks, such as doing laundry
Steps to Becoming A Volunteer
The first step to becoming a House volunteer is to submit an application. You will then begin the onboarding process and attend an orientation to learn more about being a volunteer and to answer any questions you may have.
During volunteer onboarding, you will:
- Complete a background check
- Attend an in-person orientation session
- Review our policies and procedures
- Complete two 3-hour volunteer shadow shifts
- Select your monthly volunteer shifts
Once you have completed onboarding, you will be scheduled for your first volunteer shift. We’re excited to have you join the team!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the requirements for being a House Volunteer?
- Be at least 18 years old
- Complete all onboarding steps, including a background check
- Commit to at least one year of regular monthly shifts
Will I be working with children?
Our mission is to provide a supportive “home-away-from-home” for the families of seriously ill or injured children receiving medical care at area hospitals. While the kids are being well cared for at the hospital, we are caring for the parents and other family members who are here to support the child. In most cases, you won’t be working with children receiving medical care.
How do I get started volunteering at Ronald McDonald House?
To become a House volunteer, first, you must fill out our volunteer application. Once your application has been reviewed and approved, our Volunteer Coordinator will reach out to you to complete your background check.
Once your background check comes back, you will need to complete a new volunteer orientation session, as well as two 3-hour shadow shifts with a seasoned volunteer or our Volunteer Coordinator. Once you have completed these steps, you will be regularly scheduled for volunteer shifts based on your availability.
I want to volunteer, but not on a regular basis. Are there opportunities for me?
Yes! We have a number of other activities you can do – baking, cleaning, preparing snack bags, gardening, etc. Check out all of our one-time volunteer opportunities here.
Do I have to make a year commitment to become a House Volunteer?
We do ask for our House Volunteers to make a one-year commitment. However, we know things happen and circumstances change. We are flexible when it comes to schedules – if you are willing to help our families, we can work with your schedule!
Is parking available?
We have a free parking lot across the street from our main entrance. Once you complete your shadow shifts, you will receive a parking pass.
Core Values
The Heart of our House