Receptionist Volunteers
This is a Volunteer position starting as soon as possible.
We are currently recruiting multiple volunteers for this role.
Who We Are
For over 50 years, Distress Centre has served Calgary and Southern Alberta by providing 24-hour crisis support, information, and resources at no cost. Distress Centre does not define crisis. We do not judge. Anyone can call us day or night.
We are committed to fostering a respectful, inclusive workplace where employees are valued, experience a sense of belonging, and are confident in being their most authentic selves. We welcome and encourage applications from Indigenous peoples, people with disabilities, and members of equity-deserving groups. We value all the ways that our community is diverse – in identity, experience and perspective.
Location & Hours
Work location: On-site at Distress Centre Calgary (999 8 St SW, Suite 500).
Time commitment: Minimum 3-hour shift per week during our reception hours from Monday to Friday, 9:00am to 4:30pm. Exact shift hours will be determined based on your availability and the coverage needed.
Commitment Requirements
- Minimum 6-month volunteer commitment from your start date
- Ability to commit to a consistent, minimum 3-hour shift each week for the duration of your term
What You’ll Do
As the Receptionist, you’re often the first person a visitor connects with, so a friendly, steady presence goes a long way. You’ll answer questions, point people in the right direction, and help keep things running smoothly at the front desk. Here is what the role typically involves – other related tasks may come up, and we’ll walk you through those as they do.
Front Desk & Reception
- Greet visitors, volunteers, and staff and direct them appropriately
- Answer, screen, and route incoming calls to the appropriate person or program
- Maintain a tidy, organized, and welcoming reception area
- Redirect crisis or referral-related inquiries to the appropriate team
Administrative Support
- Provide general administrative support such as preparing labels, letters, or envelopes
- Sort and distribute incoming mail, packages, and deliveries
- Assist with general upkeep of office spaces and equipment
- Support staff with other basic administrative tasks as requested
Communication & Coordination
- Relay messages accurately and promptly to the appropriate staff member
- Share general information, pamphlets, or resources with visitors
- Maintain visitor sign-in logs
- Report any facility, safety, or security concerns to the appropriate staff
- Handle any confidential or sensitive information appropriately
What You Bring
- A high school diploma or equivalent is an asset
- Proficiency in spoken English, basic writing skills
- Strong communication and active listening skills, with comfort using phone, email, and basic Microsoft Office programs (e.g., Word, Outlook)
- Proven interpersonal and cultural competency skills to work effectively and respectfully with people from diverse backgrounds and experiences
- Ability to remain calm and respond appropriately in challenging and stressful interactions
- Discretion and good judgement when handling confidential or sensitive information
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to stay on top of multiple tasks during busy periods
- Reliable and punctual, with the ability to commit to a consistent weekly shift for the duration of the term
What We Offer
- Orientation, training, and ongoing support from Distress Centre staff
- Hands-on experience in reception, administration, and customer service
- Opportunities to build communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills
- Regular feedback and opportunities for personal and professional growth
- A welcoming, supportive, and inclusive team environment
- The opportunity to make a meaningful impact in your community
- A professional reference letter upon successful completion of the volunteer commitment and role expectations (upon request)
Additional Requirements
As a condition of volunteering, all successful candidates are required to complete and maintain a Police Information Check. For those in direct service user-facing roles, a Vulnerable Sector Search is also required.
How to Apply
Please submit your resume and cover letter through our ADP Career Centre.
Distress Centre is an inclusive workplace. If you are invited for an interview and require accommodation, please let us know. If you require accommodation during the application process, please call our main office and ask to speak to Human Resources.
We may also use AI-enabled tools to support aspects of the recruitment process. All hiring decisions are made by people and are guided by our commitment to fairness and inclusion.
We thank all applicants for their interest; only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
