FAQs
How old do you have to be in order to volunteer?
Students must have completed Grade 9 in order to begin volunteering. Students currently in Grade 9 may submit an application for the summer program as long as they expect to be going into Grade 10 in the following school year.
When does recruitment begin?
The recruitment period for our Summer Student Program (high school and post secondary students) typically begins in March of that year. The recruitment period for our Year-Round Program typically begins August and occurs throughout the year as needed.
I am a secondary school student and only want to do my 40 hours. May I do 40 hours and quit?
No, secondary school students must complete the entire school year or summer program to have their hours validated.
I am interested in an educational placement (co-op). How do I apply?
- Secondary School Students apply through the co-op office at your school. Your school will forward us your application.
- Clerical or Medical Office Administration students may apply as an adult volunteer.
- Professional and Allied Health Placements students or their placement coordinator should contact our Professional Practice Office at 905-883-1212 x7595.
How much time am I expected to commit?
We ask that you commit one shift per week for a minimum of 3 to 4 hours. We recognize that you have other commitments and occasionally have to take time off. We require that you let us know if you will be taking time off. Volunteers who do not log any hours in a month and have not contacted us are considered resigned and their position is offered to a new volunteer.
What jobs do you have available and may I choose where I want to volunteer?
Our vacancy list changes on a daily basis. When we invite you in for an interview, we will discuss our current vacancies and try to find something that
matches your interest. If you have a very specific interest, you should indicate this on your application. Please understand that we are not always able to
place fulfill your request for a placement.
What costs are involved in volunteering?
Requirements after volunteers are offered a placement include:
- Vulnerable sector check - volunteer's cost $30
- Health screening - volunteer's cost will vary based on their personal physician's fee schedule
- Purchase of $30 for a uniform & badge before beginning the volunteer placement
What are the onboarding requirements to begin volunteering?
Onboarding steps 1-4 are expected to be completed within a timeline of 1-month from the interview date.
1. Successful Interview with Volunteer Resources Staff
2. Completion of online education courses as assigned by Mackenzie Health
3. Attendance to a virtual orientation session
4. Submission of a cleared Health Screening Form
- You must receive negative results for the 2-Step Tuberculin Skin Test (TB-Tests completed within the last 2-years are accepted)
- You must have received at least 2 doses of an approved COVID-19 vaccine
5. Submission of a cleared Vulnerable Sector Check (VSCs completed within the last year are accepted)
6. Purchase of uniform & badge on role-specific training day
I have received professional training. (e.g. nurse, physician, physical therapy, counselor) May I practice that as a volunteer?
We welcome volunteers with a background in healthcare but volunteer roles are specific and do not offer an opportunity for you to practice your professional skills. Your role will provide you with an opportunity to experience a Canadian health care environment but will not provide you with an opportunity to practice or develop clinical or technical skills.
May I receive a placement where I can practice my English?
We have placements where volunteers spend a great deal of time speaking with patients and families. For safety reasons, volunteers must be able to understand and speak English with a high level of competency. If you are just learning to speak English, we suggest that you take ESL classes before applying for a volunteer position. You will be required to demonstrate your understanding at the interview. Competency in additional languages is considered an asset.
May I apply for paid employment?
Yes, anyone can apply for paid employment by visiting the Careers section on our website, however volunteering at the hospital does not guarantee that you will receive a paid position.
Mackenzie Health is an inclusive and equal opportunity employer committed to providing accommodations for applicants upon request at any stage of the recruitment process in accordance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) and the Ontario Human Rights Code. Please let us know how we can be of assistance.