Privacy & Volunteer Safety Policy
Ensuring the well-being of our community and volunteers.
Volunteer Safety Policy
Purpose: To ensure the safety, dignity, and well-being of both volunteers and the individuals and families
we serve during outreach and delivery services.
1. General Safety Guidelines
- Volunteers must always represent ASSIST with professionalism, respect, and integrity.
- All interactions should remain appropriate, respectful, and service-focused.
- Volunteers should never place themselves in unsafe or uncomfortable situations.
2. Buddy System Requirement
- Volunteers must never conduct home visits or deliveries alone.
- A minimum of two volunteers must be present for all deliveries.
3. No Home Entry Policy
- Volunteers are not permitted to enter a client’s home under any circumstances.
- All deliveries must take place at the doorstep, or in a mutually agreed outdoor location.
4. Delivery Boundaries
- Keep interactions brief and respectful.
- Avoid sharing personal contact information.
- Not accept money, gifts, or favors from clients.
5. Scheduling & Verification
- All deliveries must be scheduled in advance and verified with the recipient prior to arrival.
- Volunteers should never respond to unscheduled or unknown requests independently.
6. Time of Service
All home deliveries must take place during daylight hours unless otherwise approved.
7. Emergency & Incident Protocol
- If a volunteer feels unsafe: Leave immediately and contact the ASSIST team lead.
- Any incidents must be reported and documented as soon as possible.
8. Confidentiality & Privacy
- All client information must remain confidential.
- Volunteers may not take photos, videos, or share client information without written consent.
9. Transportation Safety
- Volunteers using personal vehicles must have a valid driver’s license and insurance, and follow all traffic laws.
- ASSIST is not responsible for personal vehicle incidents.
10. Commitment to Dignity
Volunteers must approach every individual with compassion, non-judgment, and respect for their
situation.
Home Delivery Protocol Checklist
Before the Delivery
- Confirm client’s name, address, and contact information
- Verify items being delivered (food, hygiene kits, etc.)
- Schedule delivery time with client
- Assign at least 2 volunteers
- Assign at least 2 volunteers
- Phone fully charged
- Directions/location confirmed
- Emergency contact info
Upon Arrival
- Park in a safe, visible area
- Notify client of arrival (call/text if needed)
- Deliver items to doorstep OR outside meeting point
- Maintain respectful and brief interaction
- Do NOT enter the home
During Interaction
- Be kind, professional, and respectful
- Do not ask intrusive questions
- Do not accept money, gifts, or invitations inside
- Provide any additional resource information if applicable
If Something Feels Off
- Leave immediately
- Stay with your partner (never separate)
- Contact team lead if necessary
After Delivery
- Mark delivery as complete
- Note any concerns or follow-up needs
- Report any incidents
