Volunteer
Volunteer with us
You can make a difference in the lives of vulnerable men, women, and youth in the Waterloo Region. We rely on our passionate, dedicated volunteers to keep serving those in need.
Join the Ray of Hope family today, and help us to fulfill our mission!
New Volunteer Opportunities
Hospitality Team
The Hospitality Teams are the heart of the Ray of Hope Community Centre. These persons are on the frontlines as they engage with our guests through conversations and friendships. Additionally, the Hospitality Team will support staff during our mealtimes in the dining room and support washrooms, laundry and shower services, or general kitchen clean up. Volunteers are scheduled for one shift per week only and must be able to commit to a 13-week minimum commitment. Must be 18+ to apply.
Mondays: 6:30-9:00 pm
Tuesdays: 6:30-9:00 pm
Wednesdays: 6:30-9:00 pm
Thursdays: 6:30-9:00 pm
Fridays: 6:30-9:00 pm
Sundays: 3:30-6:30 pm
Drop-In Hospitality
Drop-In Hospitality volunteers are on the frontlines as they engage with our guests through conversations and friendships. Volunteers will support our staff, greeting guests, and interacting through conversations, games, etc. to build relationships. Volunteers are scheduled for one shift per week only and must be able to commit to a 13-week minimum commitment. Must be 18+ to apply.
Mondays: 2:30-5:30 pm
Wednesdays: 2:30-5:30 pm
Thursdays: 2:30-5:30 pm
Bread Slicer
A volunteer for the position of Bread Slicer must be able to carry heavy bread containers and feed loaves into an automatic bread slicer. Bread is cut, and you will be responsible to place in plastic bread bags, and tie. These loaves will be distributed to our guests who are in need. English language proficiency, the ability to follow instructions, and the ability to stand for extended periods of time are requirements for this position.
Monday: 9:30am-12:30pm
Marketplace Server
As a Marketplace Server, you’ll have the rewarding opportunity to assist our community here at Ray of Hope. From guiding our guests accessing our Marketplace food hamper program, to connecting with them one on one, your support will make a real difference to the lives of others. Other tasks include restocking shelves, and general cleanup of the work area to be done as required. Join us in creating a warm and welcoming environment for all individuals who seek our assistance. Volunteers are scheduled for one shift per week only and must be able to commit to a 13-week minimum commitment. Must be 18+ to apply.
Tuesdays: 11:00 am-2:00 pm
Wednesdays: 11:00 am-2:00 pm
Thursdays: 11:00 am-2:00 pm
Marketplace Shelf Stocker
Marketplace Shelf-Stockers will assist staff to unpack and sort weekly product shipments from the Foodbank of Waterloo Region. The role includes unpacking/packing boxes of food, moving them to/from appropriate storage (lifting 30 lbs), restocking shelves, packaging produce, bread items or other grocery items as required, and general cleanup as required. Volunteers are scheduled for one-shift per week and must be able to commit to a 4-month commitment.
Fridays: 9:30am-12:30pm
Hair Stylist / Barber
We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate volunteer Hair Stylist/Barber to join our team in providing free haircuts and grooming services to underserved individuals in our community. As a volunteer, you will use your skills to boost the confidence and well-being of our guests, offering them a positive and uplifting experience. Your role will involve working within our community center. We are looking for someone who is friendly, professional, and able to work independently. If you have a passion for giving back and making a difference, we would love to hear from you! Volunteers are scheduled for one-shift per week between Tuesday and Friday and must be able to commit to a 4-month commitment. Must be 18+ to apply.
Current Volunteers
Use our volunteer portal to manage your profile and view/change your shifts.
Meal Teams
If you wish to see when your Meal Team is scheduled or when there are openings, please check our meal team calendar.
For any volunteer inquiries, please contact volunteer@rayofhope.net