At Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) Toronto, care comes in many forms. It may look like a warm welcome at the front desk, the comfort of a freshly baked cookie, or a gentle conversation in a hospital hallway. Sometimes, it’s the quiet joy of feeding the fish or simply sharing a laugh over a favourite sports team. But no matter how it appears, one thing is certain: every act of care matters.
This National Volunteer Week — April 27 to May 3 — we proudly honour the dedicated individuals who bring this care to life each and every day. The theme for 2025, Volunteers Make Waves, couldn’t be more fitting. Our volunteers are the heart of RMHC Toronto, and their efforts — whether a quiet ripple or a powerful surge — build momentum, creating waves of hope, comfort, and connection for families navigating the unimaginable.
RMHC Toronto is more than a place to stay. It’s a place to exhale, to feel safe, to find strength in community. This sense of home is made possible by our extraordinary volunteers — over 280 active individuals who give their time, their energy, and their hearts to support families when they need it most.
Just over one-third of our volunteers support families at our 81-bedroom House in downtown Toronto, helping at the front desk, running activities, baking treats, crafting with kids, supporting food programs, and assisting in the RMHC Toronto School. The rest offer their care and compassion in our seven Ronald McDonald Family Rooms across the city, welcoming families just steps away from their child’s hospital bed.
In just the first four months of 2025, our volunteers have already contributed 10,544 hours of service. Collectively, our current volunteers have given 61,934 hours since joining us — a testament to the lasting impact of their work. People like Michael Irwin, who has volunteered an incredible 1,580 hours since joining, remind us that a single individual can have a profound and lasting effect.
Becoming a volunteer at RMHC Toronto takes care and intention. Volunteers in our House commit to a 3–4 week onboarding process; those in Family Rooms undergo 8–12 weeks of preparation. This investment ensures that each person is equipped to offer the best of themselves — and it shows.
Volunteer Jse-Che Lam, who has been with RMHC Toronto for nine years, reflects:
“When you volunteer here, you become privy to a lot of milestones. I remember a little boy who ran up to the front desk to share, ‘I got to play outside for the first time today.’ That moment reminded me of the beauty of gratitude. What we do is offer kindness and a sense of safety during a heightened period of uncertainty. ‘Making a difference’ may sound cliché, but when you’re part of this organization, you truly are doing good.”
For volunteer Laura Schmitt, the impact is felt in life’s smallest details:
“To be able to provide simple pleasures — a package from home, the joy of feeding the fish, or much-needed toiletries — I can help families find some comfort at a difficult time. I treasure being part of the RMHC Toronto family.”
Mark Vanderjagt agrees:
“It is rare to meet a group of people so committed to helping others. Whether it’s a laundry pod or a listening ear, we’re here to offer comfort. You won’t fully understand what these families are going through, but some days, you’ll see a smile that tells you you’ve helped. That’s all the reward you need.”
Volunteer Elizabeth Atack and her therapy dog, Ceili, also offer a special kind of support as a part of our PAWS program.
“Every week is different, and every week is heartwarming for Ceili and me. I leave every shift feeling energized. The families and staff are so positive and grateful. RMHC Toronto is a wonderful place to give your time.”
We are deeply grateful for the many others who contribute their time and talents in equally vital ways: our volunteer Board of Directors, Board Committees, community fundraising champions, and members of event committees. Your leadership helps keep our programs strong and ensures families never face their toughest moments alone.
Our volunteers are the steady force behind every meal served, every moment of kindness, and every expression of compassion. Like water, they are always moving — creating ripples of change that reach far beyond our walls.
This week, and every week, we thank you.
Join Our Volunteer Community
We are currently seeking volunteers to fulfill essential roles in our House and Family Rooms. If you’re looking for a meaningful way to give back, we’d love to hear from you. Learn more about our volunteer opportunities here.