Is there a cost to join the Door?
No, all our programs are free of charge!
Are the youth supervised at all times?
Yes, at least two staff members along with 2 or 3 adult volunteers are always on site during operating hours.
Can I send my child to register alone?
Yes, as long they have emergency contact information with them.
Are new Canadians allowed to get a free membership?
Yes of course. All are welcome!
My child does not speak English what languages are offered at the centre?
Currently we have staff who speaks Arabic, French and English.
Do you provide counselling?
No we do not, however, we provide active listening and resource referrals.
Can you provide bus tickets to come to your centre?
Yes, we can!
What information you require to register my child?
Basic information including emergency contact, address and medical needs / allergies.
Do the youth sign out upon leaving the centre?
No, they only need to sign in.
What kind of meals do you offer at The Door?
Various snacks and meals are served daily, and furthermore, we make sure to have alternatives dishes available for vegetarians, halal-only or youth with specific allergies.
Youth FAQs
What do I need to bring with me to get a membership?
If you are closer to the age of 12 or 18 then you need to bring an ID to proof your age.
Can I volunteer my 40 community hours at The Door? And what positions are available?
Yes you can. Positions include staff assistant, front desk or kitchen help.
How can I become a volunteer at The Door to complete my 40 hours?
Simply come to the centre and talk to the supervisor. They will provide you with an application.
What kind of rules youth are expected to follow?
All youth are expected to follow the code of conduct, help when asked to help, ensure the emergency contact is updated and if you are present during one of our workshops, you must attend and be respectful of all the guests administering such workshops.
What kind outdoor activities do you provide?
There is a basketball court outside our building. We also can set up various games including floor hockey and badminton.
Can someone help me with my homework assignments at The Door?
Of course, our staff is more than happy to help you and we have many volunteers who are here to help you as well.
What is exactly the Incentive Education Program?
If you complete 6 hours of homework at the centre, you receive a $10 gift card. If you get a higher grade on a test from a previous one, you also get a gift card.
I hear you have a clothing exchange or a boutique; can I simply take anything I want?
Yes you can.
I do not eat pork is this a problem?
We always have alternative dishes for people with restricted diets.
I am a vegetarian could you accommodate me?
Yes we can, we always have an alternative dish for people who are vegan, vegetarian or halal only.
Volunteer FAQs
What is the process and requirements to become a volunteer?
Kindly email info@thedooryouthcentre.com your resume along with a brief description of what skills you have to offer or what program you are interested in volunteering. Within a week someone will get back to you confirming whether the centre is currently recruiting volunteers or not. Assuming the centre is looking to recruit volunteers, you will be invited for a brief meeting at the centre and on a later date for a detailed interview session. Upon succeeding in the interview process you will undergo an orientation and put on schedule. Please note all volunteers must submit a Police Check for Vulnerable Sector.
Is there any specific skills needed to become a volunteer at The Door?
It varies and depends on what you are good at, in many cases volunteers are happy to be staff assistant thus allowing them to participate in all the programs offered to the youth members.
Is there a required period of time I must commit to?
Yes, we request a commitment of minimum 2-5 hours a week for 8-12 months.
Do you provide reference letters to volunteers?
Reference letters are only provided to volunteers who complete a minimum of one year. Also, note that reference letters are required no longer than two months upon the completion of their volunteer work at The Door.
Regarding police checks, would you provide me with a letter to indicate I am volunteering at your organization so I can get a cheaper rate?
Yes we can.
I would like to volunteer only on special events, is that possible?
Yes you can, we have many volunteers who assist in various activities such as outreach and fundraising or administrative tasks.
I know you require a commitment of 8 to 12 , I am interested in volunteering but will be heading away in the summer, would that be an issue?
This should not be a problem as long as you are planning to come back in the fall.
What is the dress code at the centre?
Casual.
Can I take a vacation if I become a volunteer at the centre?
Yes, of course you can, but please give the staff a heads up on your plans.
Can I complete my placement at the centre?
Yes you can. Many students complete their Co-op and Placement hours at The Door.
Donor FAQs
Why should I support The Door Youth Centre through my donation?
The Door runs on a modest annual budget of less than $250,000 and despite the challenges of the pandemic in 2022 we averaged 15 youth a night. The centre is only confirmed the revenues of approximately $152,000 from the City of Ottawa which we are ever so grateful for, but this means our small team at The Door must fundraise the difference throughout the year. All fundraising events are held through the support of the youth, staff and volunteers only. The Door does not have a specific fundraiser staff at the centre. Please note the budget stated above covers programming expenses and the salaries for 4 part-time employees and 2 full-time employees. We, therefore, are always grateful for any donations that come to our centre.
Is The Door a Registered Charity?
Yes, our charity number is 896041563RR0001
How do I make a donation to your organization?
You can either make a donation via our website or by sending a cheque directly to The Door Youth Centre.
Do you provide tax receipts?
Yes, we do for donations of $20 and up.
Where would my money go, does it go to a specific program?
All funds received goes towards program delivery.
Can I indicate where my donations go to?
Yes if you wish, simply indicate what program you wish to support.
Can I fundraise on behalf of The Door?
Yes, but you need to discuss it with the Executive Director prior to the event.
Can I make ongoing donations to the centre?
Yes, you can do that through CanadaHelps.
I am planning to get married and instead of gifts I have asked for donations to be made to The Door. Can this be done?
Yes, simply ask your guests to either send a cheque directly to the centre, go to our website or CanadaHelps website and donate online.
Can someone from the centre comes to my work and speak about the services you run?
Yes, we are more than happy to do this.
The Door is a welcoming place for everyone. The resources are very helpful and informative. I am also amazed by the amount of opportunities for the youth at The Door
Valentina P- Placement Student 2022
