HSSW Volunteer Policy and Agreement
Hello!
We're excited that you've decided to volunteer at the Humane Society for Southwest Washington for the Foster Care Program. The shelter could not function without the support of our nearly 800 dedicated volunteers. The first step to becoming a volunteer is to complete this application starting with reading and signing the Volunteer Policy below. Our rules are intended to protect you and the animals. At orientation, we'll explain in greater detail why it's essential that everyone follow HSSW rules.
If at any time you have questions or need further information, please don't hesitate to contact Volunteer Services. Thank you again for taking the time to apply.
Thank you for taking the time to carefully read through our Volunteer Policy.
By checking the box below, I certify that all statements in this volunteer application are true and have been given voluntarily.
I understand that my participation in any of the above named volunteer positions is strictly on a volunteer basis and that volunteers are not classified as employees, agents or servants of the Humane Society for Southwest Washington (HSSW) and thus any injuries I might sustain during the course of my volunteer activities are not entitled to coverage under the Humane Society for Southwest Washington’s worker’s compensation policy. I agree to release and hold harmless the Humane Society for Southwest Washington from and against any and all loss, damage, claims, liability, costs and expenses of any nature whatsoever, including without limitation, attorney’s fees and disbursements, arising from or occasioned by my participation in the Humane Society for Southwest Washington’s volunteer program.
I understand there are certain risks inherent in handling animals and/or handling donated items in a retail/resale environment, and I accept these risks.
I understand that my volunteer service is an integral part of the daily operations of the shelter and/or thrift store. I agree to the best of my ability to fulfill the weekly and monthly service commitment requested by HSSW. I agree to notify the Volunteer Office immediately of any schedule changes or if I wish to discontinue my volunteer services.
I agree to hold absolutely confidential all information that I may obtain concerning patrons or animals. I understand that an intentional or unintentional violation of confidentiality may result in disciplinary action, including termination of volunteer services and/or possible legal action by others (i.e. patrons).
I fully understand that the Humane Society for Southwest Washington expects high standards of moral and ethical treatment of animals. I agree to adhere strictly to these standards in my voluntary capacity and exercise compassion, care, and positive training methods with all animals.
I agree to treat patrons, staff, volunteers and other guests of the Humane Society for Southwest Washington with courtesy, sensitivity, and professionalism. I will seek management help for any questions or situations beyond my knowledge or training.
I agree to advise my supervisor of relevant information regarding an animal or patron in a timely manner. I will communicate volunteer service-related problems, concerns, differences of opinion, conflicts or suggestions to a staff supervisor or the Volunteer Programs staff.
I agree to limit my activity to my assigned work area unless otherwise directed by the Volunteer Programs staff or staff supervisor.
I agree to adhere to my schedule and to follow sign-in and out procedures. I will notify my department supervisor or Volunteer Programs staff when I am unavailable for my shift or I must leave my shift early.
I agree to maintain appropriate volunteer attire and a well-groomed appearance for all assignments.
I understand that the Humane Society for Southwest Washington reserves the right to terminate my volunteer status at any time, for any circumstances which, in the judgment of the Volunteer Programs Manager, Director of Shelter Operations, Director of Human Resources or President, would make my continued service as a volunteer contrary to the best interest of the agency. I have read and understand each of the above conditions.
I agree that upon receiving electronic access to the HSSW volunteer manuals I will read the applicable manuals in their entirety, and I agree to abide by the policies and procedures outlined within.
Media Release: I grant permission to the Humane Society for Southwest Washington to use my likeness in photograph(s) and/or video in any and all of its publications and in any and all other media, whether now known or hereafter existing, controlled by the Humane Society for Southwest Washington in perpetuity. I will make no monetary or other claims against the Humane Society for Southwest Washington for the use of said photograph(s) and/or video.
