During this National Emergency, we understand that those who are not suffering from the virus or who may have already recovered from the virus, may want to help. However, all volunteer activities should adhere to critical health and safety protocols in order to protect Volunteers, Residents, Clients, and Service Agencies

 

General Guidelines for Volunteers:

DO NOT attempt to volunteer if you have:

  • Have experienced symptoms that could be related to COVID-19 in the last 14 days
  • Been around anyone who has COVID-19 in the last 14 days
  • Traveled to any foreign country in the last 14 days
  • Been on a cruise or been in an airport in the last 14 days
  • Been to an event where more than 50 people were in attendance in the last 14 days 

DO NOT show up to volunteer for any activity without confirming that there is a need for the activity, that it will be conducted, and that volunteer support is needed and expected.

DO NOT consider volunteering if you live with or are in frequent contact with people in the higher-risk categories for the virus.

DO ask about any risk that may be associated with the task and DO NOT take part if you are uncomfortable with the level of risk.

DO practice universal infection control precautions.

  • Clean and wash your hands before, during, and after volunteering for a minimum of 20 seconds.
  • Bring your own hand sanitizer and mask. We are not able to supply these at the moment.
  • Avoid physical contact with others and maintain a social distance of 6 feet.
  • Cover your cough and sneezes with your elbow or tissue.
  • If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.

DO call ahead to the service agency and ask if any additional safety precautions should be taken before, during and after the shift.

DO allow for extra time for additional screening from volunteer organizations or agencies to make sure you are cleared to volunteer for the task.

DO clean and sanitize gathering spaces or meal distribution sites regularly. Dispose of cleaning materials properly and contain any contaminated materials.

DO clean any used spaces thoroughly before and after, including table top surfaces and door knobs/handles.

DO use proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) if needed/provided for the task.

DO maintain the social distancing of 6ft apart ESPECIALLY when interacting with general public through meal pickups and deliveries. This is critical given the shortage of masks.

DO expect that shifts or opportunities may be cancelled; especially volunteer opportunities working with the vulnerable populations. Please be gracious and understanding.

DO realize that traditional services may shift.

DO register your capabilities and availability or find volunteer opportunities that may be available in your area.

ALL volunteers need to wear cloth face coverings. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends wearing cloth face coverings in public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain, especially in areas of significant community-based transmission. Volunteers should fashion face coverings from household items or common materials, such as clean T-shirts or other clean cloths that can cover the nose and mouth area. Medical personal protective equipment such as N95 respirators or surgical masks will not be necessary or be provided for this purpose as these should be reserved for the appropriate personnel.

IF we are feel you are not following safety protocols, we may ask you to leave.