LBACS Volunteer Policy Form and Release Agreement
City of Long Beach Animal Care Services Volunteer Agreement and Release
1. Voluntary Participation and Assumption of Risk
I acknowledge and agree that I am volunteering with Long Beach Animal Care Services ("LBACS") of my own free will. I understand that volunteering may involve contact with animals and exposure to unpredictable conditions that carry risks of personal injury, property damage, illness, or death. These risks include, but are not limited to, animal bites, scratches, slips and falls, exposure to diseases (e.g., ringworm, giardia) cleaning agents, and emotionally stressful situations.
I assume full responsibility for any injuries, illnesses, losses, or damages that I may suffer in connection with my volunteer activities, regardless of cause, including those resulting from the negligence of the City of Long Beach or its employees, agents, and other volunteers, except for injuries caused by the gross negligence or willful misconduct of such parties.
I affirm that I am physically and mentally capable of safely performing the duties assigned to me as a volunteer. I accept responsibility for consulting a physician regarding any relevant health concerns, including tetanus vaccination.
2. Release and Waiver of Liability
In consideration of being permitted to volunteer with LBACS, I, on behalf of myself, my heirs, executors, and assigns, hereby release, waive, and discharge the City of Long Beach, its officers, employees, agents, and volunteers ("Released Parties") from any and all claims, demands, actions, or causes of action, known or unknown, arising out of or in connection with my volunteer service, except to the extent caused by the gross negligence or willful misconduct of the Released Parties.
3. Indemnification
I agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless the Released Parties from any and all claims, liabilities, damages, or costs (including attorney's fees) arising from or attributable to my negligent or intentional acts or omissions, including any transportation of animals, except where such claims arise from the gross negligence or willful misconduct of the Released Parties.
4. Transportation of Animals
If I transport any LBACS animals in my personal vehicle, I agree to:
(a) Maintain at least the state-required minimum levels of auto insurance;
(b) Accept all liability for incidents involving the transported animal(s); and
(c) Indemnify and hold harmless the City of Long Beach for any claims or damages related to such transport.
5. Medical Treatment and Insurance
I authorize LBACS staff to seek emergency medical treatment on my behalf in the event of an accident or illness. I understand that I am not covered by the City of Long Beach's Workers' Compensation or any other insurance policy for volunteer activities. I acknowledge that I am responsible for my own medical and health insurance coverage.
6. Photography and Media Release
I grant the City of Long Beach the right to use photographs and video images of me and/or any animals in my care during volunteer activities for purposes including publicity, education, and fundraising. I understand I will not receive compensation or recognition and waive any rights to such images.
7. Confidentiality and Conduct
I agree to:
- Maintain the confidentiality of all LBACS-related information including other volunteers, customers, animals, donors, and staff.
- Refrain from creating unofficial LBACS websites or social media accounts.
I further agree to:
- Fulfill assigned volunteer duties reliably and professionally.
- Seek prior authorization before bringing guests to any LBACS facility or function.
- Follow LBACS rules and procedures regarding animal care and facility safety.
- Report unsafe conditions or injuries immediately.
- Accurately record volunteer hours.
- Update the Volunteer Coordinator with any changes in personal information.
- Attend required trainings and meetings.
- Provide two weeks' notice if ending my volunteer service.
8. Termination
I understand that my participation in the volunteer program is at the discretion of the Animal Services Director and may be terminated at any time for any reason.
9. General Provisions
- Governing Law: This Agreement shall be governed by and construed under the laws of the State of California.
- Severability: If any provision of this Agreement is found invalid or unenforceable, the remainder shall remain in effect.
- Entire Agreement: This document represents the full agreement between me and LBACS concerning volunteer service.
IMPORTANT NOTICE
THIS DOCUMENT WAIVES LEGAL RIGHTS, INCLUDING THE RIGHT TO SUE FOR NEGLIGENCE.
