Frequent family guests know that coming back "home" to the Ronald McDonald House means seeing a volunteer's familiar warm smile to welcome them.

We treat our house as a home. As with any home, the work is never done! While we provide an excellent facility to the families, we often experience constraints which prevent us from providing the quality personal assistance and support to the families, that only a special type of person can offer.

Volunteers are an integral part of the support team to help keep the house safe, clean, comfortable and welcoming for the families in need.

Who are our Volunteers?
Volunteers are the heart of the Ronald McDonald House, and they come from all areas of the community; students through to senior citizens. Although they assist in the day to day operations of the House, more importantly, they provide a "listening ear" and an understanding smile whenever needed.

No formal qualifications are needed. The Ronald McDonald House Volunteers are people of all ages, (over eighteen), and are both men and women. A friendly manner, willingness to help, and a cheerful and practical approach are invaluable. Volunteers are very special people; highly valued for their commitment and service to others.

Dedication and commitment define the strength of the Ronald McDonald House Volunteers. They are well paid for in fulfillment and love.

What do Volunteers do?
Volunteers perform all sorts of different tasks. Each day is different, sometimes very busy and sometimes quiet. It is important to remember that every contribution, no matter how small, goes to make our House a happier and better place for families in need.

Most of our volunteers assist with day-to-day chores such as general cleaning, home maintenance and gardening. Many are a willing listener for troubled parents who need to talk or perhaps a caring play mate for children. Some volunteers may take families shopping, sell raffle tickets, or stick labels on envelopes, or help with an art and craft class.

Evening Family Helper/Caretaker
As an evening helper you would greet and register families, familiarize them with the House, show families to their rooms, get them needed supplies and serve as a resource person to answer questions and link families to the hospital and community services.

Office/Reception Assistant
In our busy office and reception area, volunteers help with numerous tasks including; mail correspondence, filing, hospital errands, and telephone enquiries.

General House Cleaning
Volunteers ensure we offer our families safe, clean and hygienic living areas, TV lounge areas and dining areas, by attending to them daily.

House Family Helpers
Volunteers play an integral role in making our families feel safe and comfortable during their stay. The Volunteers may; see if the family requires any emergency clothing, or personal toiletries, host a baking session or a general morning tea session and encourage the families to come together, or perhaps make up birthday/special occasion gift packs.

Corporate Volunteer Teams and Special Projects
Special projects at Ronald McDonald House call for "team power", as well as individuals. The Ronald McDonald House of Northeast Louisiana relies on more than 500 volunteers each year from our Corporate partners. Volunteer programs give our partners greater exposure in the local community and employees become engaged in and supportive of their commitment to the Ronald McDonald House.