FAQs

These are the questions we get most often, but if you still have questions please contact us
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Frequently Asked Questions

1

Parent FAQs

  1. Is there a cost to join the Door?
    No, all our programs are free of charge!
  2. 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.
  3. Can I send my child to register alone?
    Yes, as long they have emergency contact information with them.
  4. Are new Canadians allowed to get a free membership?
    Yes of course. All are welcome!
  5. My child does not speak English — what languages are offered at the centre?
    Currently we have staff who speaks Arabic, French and English.
  6. Do you provide counselling?
    No we do not, however, we provide active listening and resource referrals.
  7. What information do you require to register my child?
    Basic information including emergency contact, address and medical needs / allergies.
  8. Do the youth sign out upon leaving the centre?
    No, they only need to sign in.
  9. What kind of meals do you offer at The Door?
    Various snacks and meals are served daily, and we make sure to have alternative dishes available for vegetarians, halal-only or youth with specific allergies.
2

Youth FAQs

  1. 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 prove your age.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. What kind of rules are youth expected to follow?
    All youth are expected to follow the code of conduct, help when asked, ensure the emergency contact is updated, and if present during a workshop, attend and be respectful of all guests.
  5. What kind of outdoor activities do you provide?
    There is a basketball court outside our building. We also set up various games including floor hockey and badminton.
  6. 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 here to help as well.
  7. 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 than a previous one, you also get a gift card.
  8. I hear you have a clothing exchange or a boutique — can I simply take anything I want?
    Yes you can.
  9. I do not eat pork — is this a problem?
    We always have alternative dishes for people with restricted diets.
  10. 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.
3

Volunteer FAQ's

  1. What is the process and requirements to become a volunteer?
    Email info@thedooryouthcentre.com your resume along with a brief description of your skills or the program you're interested in. Within a week, someone will confirm if the centre is recruiting. If so, you'll be invited for a brief meeting, then a detailed interview. Upon succeeding, you'll undergo an orientation and be put on schedule. Note: all volunteers must submit a Police Check for Vulnerable Sector.
  2. Is there any specific skills needed to become a volunteer at The Door?
    It varies. In many cases volunteers are happy to be staff assistants, allowing them to participate in all programs offered to youth members.
  3. 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.
  4. Do you provide reference letters to volunteers?
    Reference letters are only provided to volunteers who complete a minimum of one year. They must be requested no longer than two months after completing volunteer work at The Door.
  5. Regarding police checks, would you provide a letter indicating I am volunteering so I can get a cheaper rate?
    Yes we can.
  6. I would like to volunteer only on special events — is that possible?
    Yes, we have many volunteers who assist in activities such as outreach, fundraising, or administrative tasks.
  7. 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.
  8. What is the dress code at the centre?
    Casual.
  9. Can I take a vacation if I become a volunteer at the centre?
    Yes, of course, but please give the staff a heads up on your plans.
  10. Can I complete my placement at the centre?
    Yes you can. Many students complete their Co-op and Placement hours at The Door.
4

Donor FAQ's

  1. Why should I support The Door Youth Centre through my donation?
    The Door runs on a modest annual budget of less than $250,000. Despite pandemic challenges, we averaged 15 youth a night in 2022. We receive approximately $152,000 from the City of Ottawa, meaning our small team must fundraise the difference year-round — without dedicated fundraising staff. The budget covers programming and salaries for 4 part-time and 2 full-time employees. We are always grateful for any donations.
  2. Is The Door a Registered Charity?
    Yes, our charity number is 896041563RR0001.
  3. How do I make a donation to your organization?
    You can donate via our website or by sending a cheque directly to The Door Youth Centre.
  4. Do you provide tax receipts?
    Yes, for donations of $20 and up.
  5. Where would my money go — does it go to a specific program?
    All funds received go towards program delivery.
  6. Can I indicate where my donation goes?
    Yes, simply indicate which program you wish to support.
  7. Can I fundraise on behalf of The Door?
    Yes, but you need to discuss it with the Executive Director prior to the event.
  8. Can I make ongoing donations to the centre?
    Yes, you can do that through CanadaHelps.
  9. I am planning to get married and would like guests to donate to The Door instead of giving gifts — can this be done?
    Yes, simply ask your guests to send a cheque directly to the centre, or donate online via our website or CanadaHelps.
  10. Can someone from the centre come to my workplace and speak about your services?
    Yes, we are more than happy to do this.