Volunteer Policy
Volunteer Policy
Last Updated: 4/11/2025
At Allan Children's Foundation, we believe that volunteers are the heart of our mission.
Their time, skills, and compassion make it possible to reach more children, families, and communities with love, care, and opportunity.
This Volunteer Policy outlines our commitment to creating a safe, respectful, and rewarding experience for all volunteers, while ensuring that their contribution supports the Foundation's goals and values.
1. Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to:
Clear Guidelines
Provide clear guidelines for the recruitment, training, and management of volunteers.
Fair Treatment
Ensure that all volunteers are treated fairly, respectfully, and consistently.
Welfare Protection
Protect the welfare of both volunteers and the children or families they serve.
Strengthen Impact
Strengthen accountability, transparency, and effectiveness within our volunteer program.
2. Definition of a Volunteer
A volunteer is any individual who freely offers their time, skills, and effort to support the work of Allan Children's Foundation without financial compensation.
Volunteers may participate in:
3. Equal Opportunities
Allan Children's Foundation is committed to providing equal opportunities for all volunteers regardless of gender, age, race, religion, disability, or background.
We encourage applications from people of diverse cultures and experiences who share our vision and values.
4. Recruitment and Selection
Suitability Assessment
All volunteers are selected based on their suitability, skills, and commitment to the Foundation's mission.
Application Process
Every volunteer must complete a simple application and, where required, provide references.
Background Screening
Volunteers working directly with children or vulnerable individuals must undergo background screening or provide a valid character reference.
Management Discretion
Acceptance as a volunteer is at the discretion of the Foundation's management.
5. Orientation and Training
Before starting, every volunteer will:
Foundation Orientation
Receive an orientation about Allan Children's Foundation's mission, values, and programs.
Safety Briefing
Be briefed on child protection, safety, and ethical conduct.
Supervision Assignment
Be assigned a supervisor or team leader for guidance and support.
Role Clarity
Be given clear instructions about their role, duties, and expectations.
Additional training may be provided depending on the nature of the volunteer's role.
6. Roles and Responsibilities
Volunteers Agree To:
The Foundation Agrees To:
7. Volunteer Conduct and Ethics
All volunteers must:
Violation of these standards may lead to immediate dismissal from the volunteer program.
8. Health, Safety, and Welfare
Allan Children's Foundation is committed to maintaining a safe and healthy environment for all volunteers.
Volunteers must follow safety instructions and report any hazards or injuries immediately.
Volunteers participating in fieldwork or outreach activities are covered by safety briefings and, where applicable, insurance arrangements.
First aid and emergency contacts are available at all program sites.
9. Child Protection and Safeguarding
Since our work involves children and vulnerable individuals, all volunteers must:
10. Confidentiality
Volunteers must treat all information about children, families, staff, and the Foundation as confidential.
Such information should never be shared publicly or on social media without written permission from management.
Breach of confidentiality may result in termination of volunteer service.
11. Supervision and Support
Each volunteer is assigned a supervisor or program coordinator to provide guidance, monitor progress, and offer support.
Regular feedback and communication help ensure that volunteers feel valued and effective in their roles.
12. Recognition and Appreciation
Allan Children's Foundation values every volunteer's contribution.
We recognize volunteer efforts through:
13. Ending a Volunteer Placement
An exit meeting may be held to discuss the volunteer's experience and feedback.
14. Review of Policy
This policy is reviewed annually to ensure it remains current, effective, and aligned with the Foundation's goals and legal requirements.
15. Contact Information
For questions, volunteer applications, or more information, please contact: