Volunteer Policies
This Volunteer Agreement and Waiver of Liability ("Agreement") is made and entered into by and between Animal Humane New Mexico ("Organization") and the undersigned volunteer ("Volunteer"). This Agreement outlines the terms and conditions related to the Volunteer’s participation in the Organization’s volunteer program.
1. Purpose and Scope
The Volunteer acknowledges their commitment to participate in the Organization’s volunteer program. This Agreement sets forth the Volunteer’s understanding of the waiver of liability and their responsibilities while volunteering.
2. Volunteer Responsibilities
The Volunteer agrees to perform their duties in a manner consistent with the Organization’s policies and guidelines. The Volunteer understands that their involvement is voluntary and agrees to contribute their time and effort in accordance with the needs of the Organization. At any time, if the Volunteer has questions about their duties or related expectations, they should speak with a member of the Volunteer Services team.
3. Waiver of Liability
To the fullest extent permitted by law, the Volunteer hereby releases, waives, and discharges the Organization, its officers, directors, employees, agents, and affiliates (collectively, the "Releasees") from any and all claims, demands, actions, or causes of action, whether known or unknown, arising out of or in any way connected with the Volunteer’s participation in the volunteer’s duties. This release includes, but is not limited to, claims for personal injury, property damage, or any other loss.
a. Indemnification
The Volunteer agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the Releasees from any claims, liabilities, damages, costs, or expenses (including legal fees) arising out of or in connection with the Volunteer’s actions or omissions during their participation.
b. General Waiver
In consideration of the opportunity to participate in the Organization’s volunteer program, the Volunteer agrees to waive, release, and discharge the Organization, its officers, directors, employees, agents, and representatives from any and all claims, liabilities, demands, or causes of action of any kind that may arise out of or be related to their participation in the volunteer program.
c. Scope of Waiver
This waiver of liability includes, but is not limited to:
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Personal Injury: Any physical or emotional injury that the Volunteer might experience while participating in the volunteer program.
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Property Damage: Any damage or loss to personal property that may occur during the course of volunteer activities.
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Medical Expenses: Any medical expenses or costs related to injuries sustained while volunteering.
d. Acknowledgment of Risk
The Volunteer acknowledges that volunteering in a shelter environment may involve certain risks, including but not limited to physical injury or emotional distress. By signing this Agreement, the Volunteer accepts these risks and agrees that the Organization is not liable for any adverse effects that may result.
4. Confidentiality
The Volunteer agrees to maintain confidentiality regarding any sensitive or proprietary information they may encounter during their volunteer activities. This includes, but is not limited to, confidential data, personal information of others, and organizational strategies.
The Organization agrees to maintain confidentiality of Volunteer information including but not limited to contact information, schedule, and duties, except when the organization is, by law, to disclose this information.
5. Volunteer Handbook
The Volunteer agrees to review and adhere to the policies and procedures outlined in the Organization’s Volunteer Handbook. The Volunteer acknowledges that the Handbook contains important information regarding their role, responsibilities, and the Organization’s expectations. It is the Volunteer’s responsibility to familiarize themselves with the Handbook and to seek clarification from the Volunteer Services team if needed.
6. Termination of Participation
The Organization reserves the right to terminate the Volunteer’s participation in the program at any time, for any reason, including but not limited to non-compliance with organizational policies. Likewise, the Volunteer can terminate their volunteer participation for any reason at any time.
7. Acknowledgment and Acceptance
By signing this Agreement, the Volunteer acknowledges that they have read and understood the terms outlined herein. The Volunteer voluntarily agrees to the waiver of liability and to participate in the Organization’s volunteer program in accordance with the policies specified in the Volunteer Handbook.
8. Contact Information
For any questions or additional information regarding this Agreement or the Volunteer Handbook, please contact the Volunteer Services team at Volunteer@AnimalHumaneNM.org.