Volunteers are the heart of San Diego’s Ronald McDonald House.
Each month, hundreds of individuals share their time and talent to make sure families experience the comforts of home while caring for their hospitalized child. We have many volunteer opportunities available.
If you are interested in individual opportunities, please keep reading! If you are looking for volunteer opportunities for a group of 10 or more people, please see our Group Opportunities page.
Drivers and Receivers
The Ronald McDonald House runs on donations, and we need volunteer drivers to pick up donated goods from all across San Diego County. Drivers are welcome to use their own vehicle or ours to cover regular weekday shifts. As a driver, you might also assist with special pick-ups and deliveries or by transporting a family to the airport or local attraction. Drivers must be at least 21 years old and have a driver’s license, proof of insurance, and a clean driving record.
If you aren’t a driver, you can still be a receiver. Volunteer receivers help to unload deliveries of donated goods and to distribute items to where they’re needed at our House.
Front Desk
Reception volunteers are the first faces our families and visitors see when they come to our House. You will greet visitors, give tours, answer phones, accept deliveries and donations, and help keep our great room tidy and welcoming. You may also help with special projects like data entry, mailings and filing, and other administrative tasks.
Hairdressers and Massage Therapists
Families love visiting our salon for a haircut or a chair massage. As a licensed hairdresser or massage therapist, you can provide some care for the caregivers, who often forget about their own needs during a child’s hospitalization. These special services are greatly appreciated by our families.
House Services
Every day we need help with tasks like washing windows, vacuuming, laundry, organizing the pantry, changing light bulbs, and making minor repairs. House Services volunteers also may help us with event set up and readying guest rooms. This opportunity is great for individual volunteers and groups.
Activities for Young Volunteers
There are many different activities that families and groups with volunteers under 18 years of age can choose. Family and community groups often volunteer at our House during meal times. They might offer guests a craft activity, bake treats, or provide an Ice Cream Social. We also have pre-professional level musicians and bands playing music during meals in our family dining area.
Event Support
Events are a key way to raise funds and awareness for the Ronald McDonald House. Events volunteers assist with community booths, fundraisers, and speaking opportunities. During an event, you might greet guests, help with setup, assist with serving beverages or food, or help with the silent or live auction. Events take place both at our House and throughout the region.