Volunteer!
Responsibilities of a Volunteer
Volunteering is a rewarding experience. All of those involved in the relationship must have respect for one another and a desire to cooperate in meeting designated needs. In addition to the rights you have as a volunteer, there are accompanying responsibilities.
- Become thoroughly familiar with the mission and the goals of the program in which you are involved.
- Be prompt and reliable in reporting for scheduled work. Keep accurate records of your hours worked.
- Notify your supervisor as early as possible if you are unable to work as scheduled.
- Attend orientation and training sessions scheduled.
- Be considerate, respect the ability of the staff, and work as a member of the team.
- Carry out assignments in good spirit and seek the assistance of your supervisor in any situation requiring special guidance.
- Accept the right of the agency to dismiss any volunteer for poor performance, including poor attendance.
- Decline work that is not acceptable to you; maintain an open mind with regard to other people's standards and values.
- Communicate personal limitations--acceptable out-of-pocket costs, transportation needs, time constraints, etc.
- Provide feedback, suggestions, and recommendations to your supervisor and staff if these might increase the effectiveness of the program.
- If you have feedback about another person, convey it to your supervisor.
- Give written notice if you cannot continue in your volunteer position or if you are requesting a leave of absence from the program.
- Have the ability to work with a culturally diverse population of clients.
- Respect current agency policies (i.e. Inclusiveness, Sexual Harassment, etc.