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FAQ - Volunteers

The following are questions that are often asked by people who are considering volunteering. Simply click on the question to see the answer.

Who can be a volunteer?
If you are age 14 (Grade 9) and up, and have a strong desire to help others, we welcome you.
For example:

  • An individual who likes to spend time visiting the elderly
  • A choir or dance group looking for a chance to showcase their talents
  • A person willing to learn new skills in an office setting or share their perfected ones
  • A person willing to make mealtimes a more sociable occasion
  • A person with skills such as gardening, piano playing etc. who wishes to share these skills with others

How do I volunteer?
There are 3 ways to contact us:

  • By phone, you can reach us at 933-3384, ext. 243
  • By email, you can send a note to tdelage@cornwall.ca
  • Using our online application form

We will then set up an appointment for you to take a tour of our facility and to find out about the various volunteer opportunities available. Most importantly, we like to find out your personal interests and ambitions so you are appropriately placed.

Are there expectations prior to volunteer job placement?
Due to the vulnerability of our Residents and clients, we take steps to ensure they are protected from the risk of fraudulent activities and harmful actions. We expect our potential volunteers to produce 2 credible references and comply with a police check. All information obtained from the inquiry will be kept confidential.

Will I be trained?
You will be offered on-the-job training, as well as a general orientation, provided by the Staff Development Officer. If you wish to volunteer in special programs such as Palliative Care, Spiritual Care, and Eating Assistance, you will be expected to participate in our in-house workshops or other educational opportunity available in the community.

To whom am I responsible?
Generally, volunteers work under the supervision of a program staff member. All questions related to the volunteer position itself can be directed to the staff member to which you are assigned. For general inquiry, the Supervisor for Resident Services who oversees the Volunteer Department, will be happy to give guidance and listen to any of your concerns.

What is the dress code for volunteers?
We strongly believe in a home-like environment and support a casual dress code. We do advise our volunteers to wear comfortable, clean clothing in good repair. If your position requires a lot of walking, running shoes would be most suitable. In the summer months, only walking shorts are permitted. Our building has excellent climate control; tank tops or halter tops are not necessary to keep cool. Short skirts (or short shorts) are not permitted and are inconvenient when providing service.

What if I don't like my job?
We do our best to match you with appropriate volunteer functions. However, if you are not enjoying your assignment and wish to be reassigned, we will be happy to explore other opportunities.

What time commitment do I need to make?
This depends on the type of volunteer service you wish to provide. Most of our volunteers commit to a couple of hours per week. There are other positions, such as Outreach Day Away Volunteer, that require a minimum of 5 hours per week. The time commitment depends greatly on your own schedule.

Of what other expectations should I be aware?
As a Glen Stor Dun Lodge Volunteer, you become a valuable member of our care team. We expect that you treat your position with honour and respect and take heed of these guidelines:

  • Respect our Residents' dignity and need for privacy by observing our confidentiality clause.
  • Be proud and wear your volunteer identification.
  • Always call ahead if you are unable to fulfill your commitment due to vacation, illness, etc.
  • Be on time for your program and be sure to seek clarification if you are unclear of your function.
  • Take advantage of various workshops made available to you.
  • Be a good-will Ambassador of the Lodge and share the spirit of volunteering.
  • Be honest and offer suggestions when deemed appropriate.
  • Have fun

If your question was not answered on this page or you would like further information on volunteering, please contact:

Tracey Delage, Supervisor of Resident Services
1900 Montreal Road 
Cornwall, Ontario, K6H 7L1
Tel: (613) 933-3384 (extension 243)
Fax: (613) 933-7214

Cornwall