Volunteer Application - Marthas Table Kingston

• Volunteers are vital to Martha’s Table, and this policy reflects our high regard for them.
• Volunteers are valued for their skills, energy, and time, supporting our mission to provide meals and a sense of community.
• We believe volunteering goes beyond tasks; it fosters personal growth and benefits our community.

Our Commitment to Volunteering:

We aim to maintain mutually beneficial relationships with volunteers.
Volunteers are integral to our work and are treated with respect and gratitude.

Equal Opportunities and Diversity:

We promote equal opportunities and welcome diversity.
Disclosure required for certain criminal convictions. Anyone with a criminal conviction/pending charges related to violence, arson, assault, sexual assault or conditions that prevent someone from being in the presence of a minor must disclose to the Operations Manager as required on the Martha’s Table application form.

The Executive Director reserves the right to ask for a CPIC (police background check) for information purposes. Your volunteer application may require further review by the Executive Director. 

Volunteers are expected to represent our values positively.

Who is a Volunteer?

A volunteer at Martha’s Table is someone who donates their time and skills without expecting financial compensation beyond expense reimbursement.  We distinguish volunteering from employment, emphasizing flexibility and informality to complement paid staff.

The volunteer relationship is built on trust and mutual understanding; there's no enforceable obligation to attend. We don't provide payment for volunteer work. Our partnership is not a legally binding contract but represents a voluntary commitment where everyone benefits from being part of Martha’s Table.

Scope of Volunteering:

Volunteers assist with meal preparation, kitchen tasks, serving, deliveries, and off-site events.
The Board of Directors consists of volunteers providing strategic advice.

The Martha’s Table Volunteer Commitment:

• We aim to match volunteer skills with needs.
• Volunteers should feel valued and receive training.
• We encourage two-way communication and a supportive atmosphere.
• Safety and welfare of volunteers are priorities.
• Continuous improvement is part of our commitment.

Code of Conduct:

• Every individual has the right to be treated fairly and with dignity and the corresponding responsibility to respect others and to treat them with dignity.
• Every individual has the right to a safe and nurturing environment and the corresponding responsibility to respect and maintain this environment.
• Every individual has the right to use and enjoy the facilities and services at Martha’s Table and the corresponding responsibility to show respect for these facilities.

Recruitment and Selection:

• We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds and do not discriminate.
• We welcome volunteers 14 years of age or older.
• Volunteers under 18 must have the consent of a parent or legal guardian.
• Volunteers that are 14 and 15 years of age must be accompanied by a parent or guardian during their entire shift.

Training and Development:

• New volunteers receive orientation and relevant training.
• Skill development is encouraged, and training opportunities are provided.

Volunteer Roles: Volunteers can commit to regular shifts.
Tasks include food prep, meal packing, sorting donations, laundry, dishwashing, and more.

Communication and Feedback: We ensure effective communication with volunteers. Feedback is welcome to improve our processes and systems.

Public Statements and Public Appearance: Only designated representatives speak on behalf of the organization. Approval is required for media interactions and official statements.

When Things Aren’t Right: We have complaint procedures for staff and volunteer issues. 
Moving On: Volunteers can end their involvement at any time, and their feedback is appreciated. We request that volunteers let the operations manager know if they are no longer interested or able to continue volunteering.

Health and Safety: We prioritize safety for volunteers, staff, and visitors. Volunteers must follow safety policies and report injuries.

Data Protection: We handle personal data with care and adhere to privacy laws.

Confidentiality Policy: All employees, volunteers, and students must maintain strict confidentiality. Breaches of confidentiality may result in disciplinary actions.

• Supervision, Support, and Recognition: 
  Volunteers are entitled to supervision and support. 
• Communication about attendance and time off is essential.
• We appreciate and recognize volunteers for their contributions.
• Martha’s Table is open to volunteers from 9 am to 4 pm, 7 days-a-week!
• Most volunteers choose to come in for shifts of 3 to 5 hours.

 We ask volunteers to commit to a certain day and time (weekly, bi-weekly or monthly) let the Operations Manager know if you are unable to come in or are going to be away.

From the Executive Director:

Thank you for considering volunteering at Martha’s Table. We value your time and commitment to making our community better. We look forward to welcoming you to our team.