Purpose:

The purpose of this policy is to establish guidelines and expectations for volunteers at Homes & Hope Community Land Trust (HHCLT). Volunteers are essential to the success of our events, programs, and activities. This policy ensures that volunteers are supported, treated with respect, and have clear expectations to foster a positive and productive environment for all parties involved.

  1. Volunteer Role and Expectations
    Volunteers at HHCLT are engaged to assist in the planning, coordination, and execution of events and activities. They are not directly compensated for their time but are a valued part of the team. Volunteers must uphold the following expectations:
    • Be punctual and reliable for scheduled shifts and duties.
    • Perform assigned tasks to the best of their ability and seek assistance if needed.
    • Follow all safety guidelines, organizational procedures, and protocols.
    • Treat all individuals with respect, courtesy, and professionalism.
    • Maintain confidentiality regarding sensitive information.
    • Adhere to the values and mission of HHCLT.
    • Shifts no longer than 4 hours, and this includes possible role changes during the 4-hour volunteer day.
  2. Eligibility and Application
    To become a volunteer, individuals must:
    Complete a volunteer application form. (see below)
    Provide necessary personal information, including emergency contact details.
    Submit any required background checks (depending on the nature of the role or event).
    Be at least 16 years old, or as per specific event requirements.
    Attend any required training sessions or orientations, if applicable.
  3. Volunteer Roles
    Volunteers may assist in various roles during events, including but not limited to:
    • Registration and check-in
    • Event set-up and breakdown
    • Construction demolition
    • Invasive plant removal and native plant restoration
    • Assisting attendees or guests
    • Managing social media or communications during events
    • The responsibilities of each role will be communicated clearly prior to the event, and volunteers should feel comfortable asking questions to ensure clarity.
  4. Training and Support
    HHCLT will provide necessary training, guidance, and support to volunteers. This may include:
    • Pre-event orientation sessions
    • Task-specific training
    • Access to a volunteer coordinator or manager for ongoing support
    • A point of contact for addressing concerns or questions during events
  5. Code of Conduct
    Volunteers must maintain a high standard of conduct, which includes:
    • Demonstrating respect for all individuals, including staff, other volunteers, and event participants.
    • Using appropriate language and behavior at all times.
    • Avoiding any actions that may damage the reputation of HHCLT.
    • Abiding by any applicable laws, regulations, and event-specific rules.
  6. Health, Safety, and Liability
    • Volunteers must prioritize their own health and safety and report any hazards, accidents, or injuries immediately to the event coordinator.
    • Volunteers, when performing demo work at properties, must wear protective gear including gloves, masks, pants, closed-toed shoes, and long-sleeve shirts.
    • Volunteers are required to follow safety guidelines provided during training or orientation.
    • Volunteers must adhere to all relevant COVID-19 protocols or health guidelines as directed by HHCLT or relevant authorities.
    • Volunteers may be required to sign a liability waiver prior to participation.
  7. Communication and Feedback
    We value the input of our volunteers and encourage open communication. Volunteers can:
    • Provide feedback on their volunteer experience through surveys or direct communication with the volunteer coordinator.
    • Report any issues or concerns about their role, colleagues, or the event to the volunteer coordinator.
    • Offer suggestions for future events or improvements to the volunteer program.
  8. Recognition and Appreciation
    HHCLT values and appreciates the time and effort of all volunteers. Recognition of volunteers may include:
    • Volunteers who pursue Homeownership through HHCLT will be credited $40/hour volunteered toward closing costs on future home purchase.
    • Letters of Recommendation for places of employment or college applications.
    • A thank-you note or acknowledgment during events.
    • Certificates or letters of recognition for long-term volunteers or those who have made outstanding contributions.
    • Annual volunteer appreciation events or celebrations.
  9. Termination of Volunteer Agreement
    HHCLT reserves the right to terminate the volunteer relationship at any time if:
    • A volunteer fails to meet the expectations outlined in this policy.
    • A volunteer engages in inappropriate behavior or violates the Code of Conduct.
    • The volunteer is unable to fulfill the responsibilities of their role due to unforeseen circumstances.
    • Volunteers may also discontinue their volunteer service at any time by notifying the volunteer coordinator or manager.
  10. Confidentiality
    Volunteers may have access to sensitive information about the organization, participants, or event details. Volunteers are expected to respect the confidentiality of all proprietary or personal information and not disclose such information to unauthorized parties during or after their volunteer engagement.
  11. Equal Opportunity
    HHCLT is committed to providing a volunteer program that is open and accessible to all individuals. We do not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by law.
  12. Amendments to Policy
    This Volunteer Policy may be amended or updated as necessary. Volunteers will be notified of any significant changes.

For any questions or additional information, please contact:
Kim Toskey at kimt@homesandhopclt.org