The Volunteer Program

Avenues in Motion delivers programs that improve mobility, the environment, and quality of life in northwestern New Jersey. To this end, Avenues in Motion accepts and encourages the involvement of volunteers within all appropriate programs and activities. Avenues in Motion staff is encouraged to assist in the creation of meaningful and productive roles in which volunteers might serve and to assist in the recruitment of volunteers from the community.

 

Purpose and Scope of Volunteer Policies

The purpose of these policies is to provide overall guidance and direction to management, staff, and volunteers. They do not constitute, either implicitly or explicitly, a binding contractual or personnel agreement. Avenues in Motion reserves the right to change any of these policies and to expect adherence to the changed policy. Unless specifically stated, these policies apply to all volunteers in all programs and projects undertaken on behalf of Avenues in Motion.

 

What is a Volunteer?

A "volunteer" is anyone who chooses to perform services for Avenues in Motion without compensation or expectation of compensation, (beyond reimbursement for pre-approved specified expenses) and who performs a task at the direction of and on behalf of the organization. A "volunteer" must be officially accepted and enrolled by Avenues in Motion staff prior to performance of the task. Volunteers are not employees of Avenues in Motion.

 

Role of Volunteer

The productive utilization of volunteers requires a planned and organized effort. The function of a volunteer is to assist staff efforts to provide more productive services. (See specific job descriptions)

Please be on time!  We are counting on you!

 

Dress Code

For most events dress code is casual or casual business. Some guidelines:

·         Dress comfortably, yet look well dressed

·         Soften your style, but don’t lose it

·         Choose clothing that fits well – not too snug, not too loose

·         Consider appropriate shoes

·         Outdoors – consider sunblock, hats, etc.

 

Drug and Alcohol Use

The possession, use, purchase, sale or distribution of illegal drugs or unauthorized prescription drugs by a volunteer is prohibited. Likewise reporting to volunteer while intoxicated or under the influence of alcohol is prohibited. These actions will result in immediate dismissal from the program.

 

Smoking

Smoking is prohibited during any Avenues in Motion event or function. 

 

Sexual Harassment Policy

All volunteers and employees of Avenues in Motion are entitled to a work atmosphere free from all forms of prohibited discrimination, including sexual harassment. Sexual harassment infringes on a person’s right to a dignified, professional and comfortable environment and undermines the integrity of Avenues in Motion. No person should be subjected to unsolicited and unwelcome sexual overtures or conduct, either verbal or physical, from anyone. 

If you believe that you have been the victim of sexual harassment, or have witnessed someone else being harassed, you should report this to the Volunteer Coordinator or Vice President immediately.  

 

Attendance/Promptness

Punctuality is an important factor to make Avenues in Motion events possible. Please be on time. If you are going to be late, please contact the Volunteer Coordinator as soon as possible, so other arrangements can be made. 

 

Accidents
A volunteer who is injured must notify the Volunteer Coordinator IMMEDIATELY regardless of the degree of injury. 

 

Photographs

Almost all of Avenues in Motion events are recorded or photographed. By volunteering, permission is granted to Avenues in Motion to copyright photographic portraits, video or pictures of said volunteer. Volunteers consent to the use of any printed matter in conjunction there within. The volunteer waives any right that they may have to inspect or approve the finished product(s), advertising copy or any other matter that may be used in connection therewith or the use to which it may be applied.

 

Participation Waiver

In consideration for participating in an Avenues in Motion event, I assume responsibility for all my actions while at event facilities, traveling to and/or from any such facility, or engaged in an activity under the supervision of my team leader, and/or Avenues in Motion staff and volunteers.

Furthermore, I assume responsibility for any loss, personal injury, accident, misfortune or damage to myself or my property, with the understanding that reasonable precautions shall be taken to ensure the health and safety of myself and my property.

I currently have no known mental or physical condition that would impair my capability for full participation as intended or expected of me.                                                                                                                                                               

I, the undersigned, am at least 18 years of age or I am the parent or guardian of a participant who is less than 18 years of age. I have read this Performance Authorization, Release, and Waiver of Liability and understand all its terms. I execute it voluntarily and with full knowledge of its significance.