Hypothetical volunteer agreement

Our Mission:

Hypothetical Volunteer Agreement 1. Name, Address, Contact, yada,yada….

You’ll probably start with the usual contact information, people are accustomed to seeing this first and it helps with filing (our eyes tend to start at the top and work down). We all know the drill here, name, preferred nicknames, addresses (possibly permanent and temporary), phone numbers, email address and preferred contact.

Great space to outline the organization’s mission. Depending on how you feel ,you might include value statements too.

Did you know….

2. More About You….

In thinking about my own experiences the organization’s I resonate with most, and consequently work the most for, are those who take an authentic interest in who I am and what makes me tick. Who treat the volunteer experience as a mutual exchange. So applicants might list a few hobbies, or explain what draws them to volunteering. You might even ask about past volunteer experiences.

What did they like about past volunteer experiences, and what wasn’t so fun?

Good opportunity to throw in an interesting fact or three highlighting the need for your organization, its impact or why it does what it does.

Volunteer Value Statements

Tell Us About Yourself Please list 3 hobbies you enjoy: 1.__________ 2.___________ 3. ________ Volunteered before? Tell us about it. What did you enjoy? How could it have been better? _____________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________

3. Looking for Anything in Particular….

What 3 to 5 things do you expect of all volunteers? If there’s a code of conduct, you might mention that here. If not, this is an opportunity to be upfront about the values every volunteer must have. Or the values the organization holds toward its volunteers.

Here you could dive into what the applicant is looking for with your organization.

There are all kinds of ways to go about this. You might list open opportunities and let them choose (a great way to fill lesser known or harder to fill positions) or include a blank in case someone has something else in mind. Even ask what few things (maybe 3) they hope to accomplish volunteering with you. Or you could take the complete opposite approach. Have applicants list skill sets, current employment, and place them yourself.

4. Does This Fit? One thing I’d make sure to get at, in addition to talent, is what other skill-sets, network, perspective, etc applicants have to offer. Think about what matters ] to the organization. Anything that’s a priority ask. Example? If your primary demographic speaks another language ask whether applicants can speak it. Why not know off the bat how comfortable an applicant will be, or make others? If you’re technologically focused ask about basic computer skills. If an applicant thinks an emoji is a rare disease that’s something to consider. BUT, bear in mind these answers shouldn’t be used to discriminate. That someone can’t or doesn’t know something doesn’t mean they have no use. But it gives really important context as you try to figure where someone might fit in.

Before You Go….

Please check all that apply.

Do You: Speak Fluent Spanish Know how to use the Microsoft Office Suite Have a certification in First Aid/CPR?

5. Thank You, Thank You, Thank You….

Lastly, I like to close applications with a big ol’ thank you. Not sure about you, but I don’t wake up looking for an application to fill out. It takes time and energy. So I thank applicants not only for getting out of bed, putting on pants and showing up, but for their willingness to give up a little of their time. I’m also a fan of keeping people in the know. Include a summary of what happens next. What does the recruiting process look like and generally how long does it take? What happens if they’re not recruited right now? Answer questions you have when filling out an application.

Thank You, Thank You, Thank You! We know your time is precious, and appreciate you taking the time out to apply for a volunteer position with our organization.

5. Other Things to Think About it Totally get not wanting the process to resemble taking out a mortgage. But bear in mind volunteers are asking to work on your property with your clients. Serious business. Keeping this in mind, ask as much information up front you need to be comfortable with the relationship.

Depending on how much information you make accessible during the process, decide whether you should have applicants sign a confidentiality agreement in addition to the application.

Think carefully about other attachments. For example, if there’s a background check did you attach any necessary fair credit or reporting notices required by law?

The size, complexity and number of questions should coincide with the general education level of your demographic and volunteers.