Sonoma Garden Park Volunteer Policies
Welcome to Sonoma Garden Park!
Sonoma Garden Park, operated by Sonoma Ecology Center, relies heavily on our dedicated volunteers. Volunteers keep the Garden Park active and flourishing for the community to enjoy. Please complete the necessary waiver below, along with this application to join our amazing community of volunteers.
The Waiver form will be automatically sent to the Volunteer Coordinator upon completion.
Please review our Volunteer Handbook.
Volunteer Mission Statement
We, the volunteers of Sonoma Garden Park, have committed to work with our community to lead actions that achieve and sustain ecological health in Sonoma Valley through education, access to organic food, and acting as a model of drought and fire wise gardening.
Your Rights
As a volunteer, you should expect the following from us:
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Appropriate training for the activity you are performing
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Supervision and staff support when needed
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A safe environment, free of harassment and free of judgment
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Support from our Volunteer Coordinator and SEC staff in resolving issues
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Recognition and gratitude for your time and efforts
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A letter of reference for volunteers with 100 or more hours of service
Your Responsibilities
As a volunteer, you will join a team of dedicated individuals who make a tremendous difference to our organization, community, and nature. The following list highlights your responsibilities and what we expect from our volunteers:
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Agree to our volunteer policies and procedures
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Understand the time commitment involved (if ongoing), and be sure that your schedule will allow for such a commitment
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Attend orientation or training related to your duties
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Understand your assignment, ask questions if unclear, and provide feedback about your experience
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Share your feedback with us from a volunteer's perspective. We know that we can always improve!
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Be honest about your skills, intentions, and your goals
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Respect confidentiality
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Keep your emergency and contact information up to date
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Please do not communicate political views while volunteering
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View SEC staff members as allies, mentors, and friends
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Act as an ambassador for Sonoma Garden Park and the Sonoma Ecology Center
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Be open to new ideas, new assignments, and new volunteers
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Participate as a team member and “buddy-up” when asked