Benefits of Volunteering
VOLUNTEERS are active in the community that they live in.
VOLUNTEERING is a great way to gain experience in a working environment. You can make new contacts and mix with people of different ages, maybe even mix with those that have a different background than yours. You’ll feel part of the work force and beat the unemployment blues.
VOLUNTEERING will help you with your self-confidence.
VOLUNTEERING will enhance your life experience.
VOLUNTEERING will strengthen your network with career choices and help you practice your communication skills. It will give you up to-date referees for job interviews.
VOLUNTEERING will help you explore different avenues towards gaining paid employment and your decision to volunteer will also benefit the organisation you choose to work for.
VOLUNTEERING is a ticket in...Volunteering gives you access and participation in a range of places and activities.
You can see that, VOLUNTEERING is a two way street benefiting both volunteer and organisation alike. VOLUNTEERING is mutually rewarding.
Definition of Formal Volunteering
Formal volunteering is an activity which takes place in not for profit organisations or projects and is undertaken:
- to be of benefit to the community and the volunteer;
- of the volunteer’s own free will and without coercion’
- for no financial payment; and
- in designated volunteer positions only.
Principles of Volunteering
- Volunteering benefits the community and the volunteer.
- Volunteer work is unpaid.
- Volunteering is always a matter of choice.
- Volunteering is not compulsorily undertaken to receive pensions or government allowances.
- Volunteering is a legitimate way in which citizens can participate in the activities of their community.
- Volunteering is a vehicle for individuals or groups to address human, environmental and social needs.
- Volunteering is an activity performed in the not for profit sector only.
- Volunteering is not a substitute for paid work.
- Volunteering respects the rights, dignity and culture of others.
- Volunteering promotes human rights and equality.
VOLUNTEERS RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
As a volunteer you have rights to:
- information about the organisation for which you are volunteering
- a clearly written job description
- know to whom you are accountable
- be recognised as a valued team member
- be supported and supervised in you role
- a healthy and safe environment
- be covered by insurance
- say no if you are being exploited
- be reimbursed for out of pocket expenses
- be advised for the organisation's travel reimbursement policy
- be informed and consulted on matters which directly or indirectly affect you and your work
- be made aware of the grievance procedure within the organisation
- orientation and training
As a volunteer you need to:
- be reliable
- respect confidentiality
- carry out the specified job description
- be accountable
- be committed to the organisation
- undertake training as requested
- ask for support when you need it
- give notice before you leave the organisation
- value and support other team members
- carry out the work you have agreed to do responsibly and ethically
