Habitat for Humanity of Kent County

  Volunteer Code of Conduct

 

Becoming a Habitat for Humanity of Kent County (Habitat Kent) volunteer comes with great rewards and responsibilities. Volunteers like you are representatives of Habitat Kent and its mission. When you accept a volunteer role with Habitat Kent, whether at construction sites, the ReStores or any other Habitat Kent events and sites, you are committing to act in a way that promotes Habitat Kent’s mission, respects the local community, and ensures the safety of all participants. In addition to complying with all local laws, regulations and Habitat Kent policies, all volunteers are expected to follow the volunteer code of conduct outlined below.

 

1. Promote a respectful community.

• Treat all volunteers, employees and community members with respect, courtesy, and dignity.
• Avoid the use of offensive, or otherwise insensitive language.
• Refrain from engaging in intimidation, physical, sexual, and/or emotional violence toward others.
• Promote a welcoming, respectful environment for people of all backgrounds.
• Respect the privacy and dignity of Habitat Kent beneficiaries by avoiding posts on social media that would result in beneficiaries being identified and/or traced.

 

2. Respect the human rights of all people and protect beneficiaries and community members from exploitation and abuse.

• All volunteers must model behavior that respects the human rights of all people and protects beneficiaries and children from exploitation and abuse.
• Inappropriate physical or sexual relationships with other volunteers, staff, and community members is prohibited.

 

3. Prioritize site safety.

• Follow the instructions of team leaders and the safety protocols established by Habitat Kent.
• Avoid any activities that pose a safety risk to yourself or others.
• Promptly report any unsafe working conditions to the onsite supervisor or the Volunteer Services department at Habitat Kent.

 

4. Uphold a zero-tolerance policy for alcohol, drugs and weapons:

• The purchase or possession of drugs or weapons is strictly prohibited on Habitat Kent property and volunteer sites.
• The purchase or possession of alcohol is strictly prohibited on all Habitat Kent sites unless previously approved by organizational leadership.
• All Habitat Kent sites are smoke-free.

 

5. Follow the gift giving policy.

• Do not exchange gifts with Habitat Kent beneficiaries, staff members or community members without consulting Habitat Kent leadership.
• Speak with a staff member about appropriate ways to exchange gifts. Staff is also happy to suggest gifts that will benefit the entire community.

 

6. Protect ministry assets.

• Use care to protect all Habitat Kent resources.
• Stealing, misappropriation or diversion of Habitat Kent resources for personal benefit is not permitted.

 

7. Maintain confidentiality.

• Build trust with other volunteers and Habitat Kent by respecting the confidentiality of volunteers, staff, Habitat Kent beneficiaries, and community members.

 

8. Speak up!

• Habitat Kent embraces a “see something, say something” culture. If you become aware of potential misconduct, help reinforce our culture of courage and accountability by sharing your concerns with Habitat Kent staff.
• Volunteers may also anonymously report potential misconduct through MySafeWorkplace.com

 

I acknowledge that I have read, understand and agree to be guided by this volunteer code of conduct.

I commit to helping safeguard the rights and dignities of all people I encounter during my volunteer service with Habitat Kent.

 

I understand that Habitat Kent has the right to release me from my volunteer position at its discretion. I also understand that I am responsible for any costs that I may incur due to a violation of the code of conduct.