Volunteer Opportunities

Volunteer Programs

Activity Cart – The Activity Cart is a mobile unit stocked with books, puzzles, magazines, word searches, pictures and art materials. Volunteers organize and restock the cart and take it to various units for patients to borrow items.

Drop-In Centre – The Drop-In Centre provides a “family room environment” for patients, with friendly conversation, books, magazines, cards, puzzles, games and refreshments. Volunteers interact with patients, play cards, return books to their designated locations and keep the room tidy and clean. Hot chocolate is available to patients and is served by the volunteers.

Gift Shop – The Gift Shop is open to all staff, patients and visitors from Monday to Friday between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. and Thursdays 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.  The shop is staffed by volunteers and patient volunteers in cooperation with Vocational Services.  All proceeds are used for the enhancement of patient programs. Volunteers assist customers, replenish and restock items and keep the shop tidy and clean.

Spiritual Care – Spiritual and Religious Care provides and coordinates spiritual and religious needs of the entire hospital including patients, families, staff and volunteers. Regular multifaith services are held during the week including Sundays. Spiritual Care volunteers provide friendly assistance and support to the multifaith leaders, patients and staff.

Volunteer Supported Patient Care Programs

One to One Visiting – Volunteers spend one-to-one time with a patient talking, playing cards and going for walks (depending on patient privileges). Volunteers interact with patients and encourage positive relationships.

Leisure / Activity Programs – Volunteers assist Therapeutic Recreation staff in a variety of recreation activities including but not limited to: bingo, games, cards, music programs, discussion groups, computer games and leisure activities. Volunteers facilitate and encourage patient participation in organized activities, interact with and talk to patients.

Pet Visitation – Volunteer Services acknowledges the health benefits of pets and provides patients an opportunity to interact with dogs and enjoy their company through the Pet Visitation program. All dogs brought into Ontario Shores for pet visitation must first complete the Pet Therapy Program offered by St. John Ambulance. 

Tutoring, Computer Training and Reading Comprehension – There are a range of opportunities for volunteers to assist adolescents and adult learners in small groups or one-to-one situations with reading, writing, English, computer skills and various course credits. Volunteers support staff in providing positive feedback on the students' progress and encourage continued focus on academic excellence.

Volunteer Supported Hospital Programs

Art Gallery – The Ontario Shores Art Gallery supports artists and encourages artistic expression through a variety of exhibitions and art shows. Opportunities are available to assist with organizing, promoting and staffing the art shows.

Research Department – The role of the Research Department is to conduct research studies, support other research conducted at Ontario Shores and improve current research practices.

Tour Guide – Schools, professionals and community members are welcome to book a tour of Ontario Shores to become more familiar with our facility and our programs. Tour guide opportunities are available for individuals interested in developing their leadership skills and learning more about Ontario Shores.