SOS Volunteers

SOS VOLUNTEER GUIDELINES and POLICIES

1. Volunteers provide a valuable service to Shelter Our Sisters (SOS). The Coordinator of Volunteer Services supervises each volunteer, however, all coordinators and counselors are expected to assist in supervising.
   
   
2. Volunteers must complete a formal volunteer training prior to beginning work at SOS.
   
   
3. Volunteers must adhere strictly to confidentiality guidelines. The location of the shelter facility as well as all client information MUST be kept strictly confidential.
   
   
4. Volunteers must maintain the ethical standards of SOS as well as be familiar with SOS policies and procedures. Please remember that you represent SOS to the community. It is essential that your conduct reflect the philosophy and standards of the agency.
   
   
5. No medical, legal, or personal advice is to be given without supervisor's approval.
   
   
6. Once the schedule is established, the staff depends upon your presence. Should you not be able to meet your scheduled commitment, you must give as much notice as possible.
   
   
7. Volunteers must complete an activity sheet each time they perform a volunteer service on behalf of SOS. These forms are located in the office and are collected at the end of each month.
   
   
8. As a volunteer interacting with clients, your role is to be an "advocate", a "helping hand", or a "listening ear". You are not to become personally involved with callers or clients. You are not to give clients money or call them when you are not at the shelter, unless approved by the supervisor or in the capacity of a trained mentor. You are responsible to refer clients to their counselor or supervisor for issues/problems with which you are unable to assist.
   
   
9. Volunteers are asked to report any problems or concerns to the Coordinator of Volunteer Services, a supervisor, or staff immediately.