Make a Difference with Us!
Volunteers are the heart of San Diego’s Ronald McDonald House
Each month, hundreds of individuals share their time and talent to provide a network of care for guests by offering the comforts of home—hospitality, meals, activities, everyday services, and special attention. Last year, volunteers gave 81,270 hours of their time to support our mission!
Opportunities
When you volunteer here, you make an overwhelming situation more manageable for families with hospitalized children.
All Opportunities
Recurring
One-Time
Recurring
Front Desk
Recurring
Front Desk
As the first friendly face for families and visitors, you’ll greet families, give tours, answer phones, accept deliveries, assist with data entry and mailings, and keep our great room welcoming.
ONE-TIME
Event Support
One-Time
Event Support
We rely on friendly volunteers to help with registration and check-out at our signature House events.
ONE-TIME
Musicians
ONE-TIME
Musicians
Families love hearing live music. Come play our grand piano for our guests or bring your own instrument!
Recurring
Drivers & Receivers
Recurring
Drivers & Receivers
Drive donations and assist with special pick-ups and family transport around San Diego County using your own car or one of ours*
*Drivers must be 21 with a valid license, insurance, and clean driving record.
ONE-TIME
Artists
ONE-TIME
Artists
Provide a creative outlet for our families by leading an art workshop or a painting session for our guests.
ONE-TIME
Crafts from Home
ONE-TIME
Crafts from Home
Bring in your crafts to share with our residents whether it’s crocheted scarves or sewing projects or anything else!
ONE-TIME
Service Animals
ONE-TIME
Service Animals
Have a certified service animal? Witness how a cuddle with a service dog, pony, or pig can brighten a stressful day.
one-time
Hairdressers &
Massage Therapists
One-time
Haidressers &
Massage Therapists
Offer your expertise where it is appreciated most as a licensed hairdresser or massage therapist.
ONE-TIME
Other Talents to Share
ONE-TIME
Other Talents to Share
We are open to your ideas! Just send an email to volunteer@rmchsd.org with your suggested volunteer activity as well as a list of potential dates and times of availability.
Recurring
Front Desk
Recurring
Front Desk
As the first friendly face for families and visitors, you’ll greet families, give tours, answer phones, accept deliveries, assist with data entry and mailings, and keep our great room welcoming.
Recurring
Driver & Receivers
Recurring
Driver & Receivers
Drive donations and assist with special pick-ups and family transport around San Diego County using your own car or one of ours*
*Drivers must be 21 with a valid license, insurance, and clean driving record.
ONE-TIME
Event Support
One-Time
Event Support
As the first friendly face for families and visitors, you’ll greet families, give tours, answer phones, accept deliveries, assist with data entry and mailings, and keep our great room welcoming.
ONE-TIME
Musicians
ONE-TIME
Musicians
Come play our grand piano for our guests or bring your own instrument!
ONE-TIME
Artists
ONE-TIME
Artists
Provide a creative outlet for our families by leading an art workshop or a painting session for our guests.
ONE-TIME
Crafts from Home
ONE-TIME
Crafts from Home
Bring in your crafts to share with our residents whether it’s crocheted scarves or sewing projects or anything else!
ONE-TIME
Service Animals
ONE-TIME
Service Animals
Have a certified service animal? Witness how a cuddle with a service dog, pony, or pig can brighten a stressful day.
one-time
Hairdressers &
Massage Therapists
One-time
Haidressers &
Massage Therapists
Offer your expertise where it is appreciated most as a licensed hairdresser or massage therapist.
ONE-TIME
And Beyond
ONE-TIME
And Beyond
Do you have other talents to share? We are open to your ideas! Just send an email to volunteer@rmchsd.org with your suggested volunteer activity as well as a list of potential dates and times of availability.
“The music sets a special mood in the House, not only for the families, but for the staff and volunteers, too.”
– MARYBETH HUGHES
FEATURED VOLUNTEER
Music to Soothe
the Soul
MaryBeth Hughes radiates positivity, joy, and a deep passion for music. Every Tuesday, she volunteers at San Diego’s Ronald McDonald House, where she plays the piano and occasionally sings for families during lunch. After years of performing with a group, she now plays solo.
Frequently Asked Questions
What age group can volunteer?
Recurring and kitchen volunteers must be at least 16 years of age and be accompanied by an adult. Younger volunteers can organize and lead a donation drive using the Wish Lists on our website, make blankets, host a lemonade stand, or participate in our Red Shoe Crew program.
What are the pre-requisites for recurring volunteers?
Recurring volunteers must attend an information session, complete all paperwork and clear a background check prior to starting their service. Sign up for an information session here.
How do I apply for a recurring volunteer position?
It starts with signing up and attending an information session. Please bring the following information to the session:
- A current resume
- Include any volunteer and intern experience you might have
- Two personal references with email addresses and phone numbers
How do I schedule a one-time volunteer position?
Please send an email to volunteer@rmchsd.org with the volunteer activity you’d like to do and a list of potential dates and times.
Is there a dress code?
We recommend wearing comfortable clothes and closed-toe shoes. Dress codes vary by activity.
Why do I have to sign in?
Volunteers must sign in and out during each shift for record keeping and security purposes.
Will this fulfill a court-ordered community service?
We do not offer court appointed service hours.