Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)-Volunteers

Why volunteer for Calgary Meals on Wheels?

You will gain a sense of giving back in your community by delivering nutritious, affordable meals to seniors, those convalescing and people living with disabilities.  You will make a difference in someone’s life directly by developing relationships with the clients you serve.  You will know the simple act of delivering a meal means social contact, a safety check and independence for people in their homes all across our city year round. Volunteering is a great way to meet new people, involve the family and find out more of what is happening in your community.

There are various volunteer positions needed in our organization, although most of our volunteers help in delivering meals to our clients' homes.  Our volunteers have many talents and can contribute at all levels of our organization by being a Board or Committee Member, helping in the Office, Fundraising and Special Events, or some Kitchen work.

What is the volunteer time commitment?

Our meals are delivered between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, Monday through Friday, weekly, every other week or monthly.  There is flexibility with availability, and the volunteer department will try to work with each volunteer to accommodate their schedules.  All other volunteer positions may depend on work needed as it could be one day, ongoing, or blocks of time.

How do I become a volunteer?

What is the ADOPT-A-ROUTE Program?

Adopt-A-Route is a simple way for social, corporate and church groups to give back to the community while fostering employee morale or community involvement.  Groups who Adopt-A-Route take on the delivery requirements of one route, one day a week by providing two employees or members for two hours (between 11am to 1pm).  An Employee or Church or Group Coordinator is needed to schedule 10-20 participants (recommended) by providing a schedule to our Volunteer Coordinator.  Volunteers use their own vehicles while delivering meals.  An onsite group orientation will be provided by Calgary Meals on Wheels Staff to train volunteers.

Do I need a car to volunteer?

Drivers require a vehicle; however there are other volunteer positions that do not require a vehicle.

Where do I pick up the meals?

In addition to our main location, there are depots in all quadrants of the city. We work with volunteers to place them at depots that are convenient for them.