Volunteer

Homewood Volunteers

Volunteers are an integral part of Homewood's programs and services and the work they do supports, supplements and enhances the efforts of our staff. Contributing their time and talents, volunteers add a depth and richness to our organization, enabling us to provide a broader range of services and supporting us in achieving our mission.

Volunteer Services

Volunteer Services is a department of the Homewood Health Centre formed in 1972. Volunteer Services staff work to enhance the quality of the hospital programs and services through development, implementation and maintenance of volunteer programs that support and assist the patients and staff of the Homewood Health Centre.

The Volunteers Services Department also provides certain centralized services and ensures systems are in place to meet the needs of volunteers.

Volunteer Services Purpose Statement

To experience the opportunity and satisfaction of giving time for the benefit of others.

Who can volunteer?

Homewood welcomes members of the community over the age of 16, who are dependable and have a sincere desire to share some time each week. Our volunteers come from many different backgrounds and when they share their diverse skills and talents with us, it is a satisfying experience for everyone. We are fortunate to have such a variety of volunteers from all over the community, from high school students to senior citizens.

How much time should you give?

We ask that volunteers commit a minimum of two to four hours per week for a period ranging from three months to one year depending upon the program. Opportunities are available Monday through Sunday, mornings, afternoons or evenings. Evening and weekend volunteer positions are available, however they are limited.

While considering the interests and aspirations of our volunteers, we try to "match" the individual strengths and skills to services needed. It is this match that leads to volunteers making a difference. After all, making a difference in people¨s lives is what Homewood is all about.

How do you become a volunteer?

• Contact Volunteer Services at (519) 824-1010 ext. 2262 or schumart@homewood.org
• Complete and return the Volunteer Application Form to the Volunteer Services department along with the Permission to Conduct Reference Check Form.
• Volunteer Services will contact you with the status of your application within two weeks of your applications receipt.
• An interview will determine what position will best match your individual strengths, skills interest and times available
• References will be checked
• A second interview and a police check may be required
• You will be required to have a TB skin test
• Volunteers receive training with a staff member or an experienced volunteer

Please note: Homewood is a smoke-free environment. Smoking is not permitted anywhere on the property.

Volunteer Application Form
Permission to Conduct Reference Check Form

Volunteer Opportunities

• Admitting
• Archives
• Administrative Support in Volunteer Services
• Cafe
• Crafts
• Creative Arts and Crafts Facilitator
• Computer Coaching
• Escorting
• Gift Shop
• Homewood Addiction Division
• Homewood Community Addiction Services (CADS)
• Horticulture
• Internet coaching
• Library, Library bookcart
• Mealtime supervision in Eating Disorders program
• Music Appreciation
• Newsletter administrative support
• One-to-one interaction
• Outcome Studies data entry / research
• Pastoral Care, Worship Service
• Patient Representative Program
• Quilting
• Recreation
• Tours
• Visiting Older Adults
• Yoga instruction

There may not be vacancies in all the above positions when you apply. Volunteer applications are kept on file for three months.

In addition to the above positions, Volunteer Services is open to considering new and innovative Volunteer positions which meet the needs of our customers.

For more information, please contact:

Volunteer Services
Homewood Health Centre
150 Delhi Street
Guelph, ON N1E 6K9
phone: (519) 824-1010, ext. 2262 or 2188
e-mail: schumart@homewood.org
fax: (519) 767-3564