Interview with Marga Smith, Front Host (Calgary)

How long have you been volunteering with RMHC Alberta? 

I began in November 2021 as a Front Host. 

What brought you to RMHC Alberta and why do you choose to stay? 

I had been home with my kids for 14 years and did a lot of volunteer work in their schools. I was thinking about going back to work and my husband showed me an email about volunteering with RMHC Alberta. My friend had volunteered at the House and I knew she had a good experience, so I decided to give it a try and it has been great. 

Why have you dedicated your volunteer time to RMHC Alberta?  

RMHC Alberta is a great organization and I have enjoyed my time here. The staff and families are great to deal with and very welcoming. I enjoy my time so I try to never miss a shift, and I have even taken a few extra on.  

Has your experience volunteering at RMHC Alberta matched your expectations from when you joined the organization? How? 

Yes, my experience has definitely met and exceeded my expectations. I don’t know what I really expected, but it has exceede my expectations because I feel like I have gotten to appreciate what the organization does. All the volunteers and staff I meet are great. Everyone is helpful. 

Can you share one of your most memorable moments volunteering at RMHC Alberta? 

It’s really exciting when you see families with their babies who get to go home. You can see the families are always so thankful for their time at the House and they’re so happy when going home. 

Can you share one of your most memorable moments volunteering at RMHC Alberta? 

At Christmas when we brought the very first family through the North Pole for Christmas gifts, they burst into tears and gave me a hug. The mom told me she was so thankful for the services we had provided her family. 

What advice would you give to encourage someone to volunteer with RMHC Alberta? 

I would say I was a bit nervous to volunteer when I first started, but you have to just jump in and do it. It is very worthwhile for sure.  

Is there anything else you want to discuss or share? 

I would encourage people to think about volunteering. It is very rewarding being able to give your time to an organization that needs help.