Volunteer Code of Conduct

[ORGANIZATION NAME] Adopted: _______________ | Last Reviewed: _______________

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1. Purpose

Volunteers are essential to the mission of [Organization Name] (the “Organization”). This Code of Conduct establishes clear expectations for volunteer behavior to protect the people we serve, our staff, our fellow volunteers, and the Organization itself.

By volunteering with the Organization, you agree to uphold the standards in this policy. This document applies to all volunteer activity — whether on-site, off-site, or while representing the Organization in the community.

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2. Who This Policy Covers

This policy applies to all individuals who volunteer with the Organization in any capacity, including recurring volunteers, one-time event volunteers, board volunteers, and remote volunteers.

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3. Mission Alignment

Volunteers represent the Organization in the community. While serving, you are expected to:

• Act in a manner consistent with the Organization’s mission and values
• Speak respectfully about the Organization, its staff, clients, and fellow volunteers
• Refrain from using your volunteer role to promote personal, political, or commercial interests
• Refer media inquiries or official communications to designated staff rather than speaking on the Organization’s behalf

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4. Respect and Inclusion

The Organization is committed to a safe, welcoming environment for everyone. Volunteers are expected to:

• Treat all people — staff, clients, fellow volunteers, and the public — with dignity and respect
• Refrain from harassment, discrimination, or intimidation of any kind
• Respect differences in background, culture, ability, and perspective
• Use inclusive, appropriate language in all interactions

Harassment includes unwanted physical contact, offensive comments, threats, and any conduct that creates a hostile environment. Violations will result in immediate removal from volunteer service.

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5. Confidentiality

Volunteers may have access to sensitive information about clients, donors, staff, or organizational operations. You are expected to:

• Keep all client, donor, and organizational information strictly confidential
• Not share, discuss, or disclose confidential information outside of your volunteer duties
• Not take photographs or recordings of clients without explicit written consent
• Maintain confidentiality obligations even after your volunteer service ends

When in doubt, do not share. Ask a staff member if you are unsure what information is appropriate to discuss.

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6. Conflicts of Interest

Volunteers must avoid situations where personal interests conflict — or appear to conflict — with the interests of the Organization or the people it serves. This includes:

• Accepting gifts, money, or personal benefits from clients or donors
• Using your volunteer position to conduct personal business
• Soliciting clients, donors, or fellow volunteers for personal gain

If you believe a conflict of interest may exist, disclose it to your volunteer supervisor promptly.

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7. Boundaries with Clients

Volunteers who interact directly with clients must maintain appropriate professional boundaries at all times:

• Do not pursue personal relationships with clients outside of your volunteer role
• Do not provide clients with your personal contact information unless explicitly authorized
• Do not provide financial assistance, loans, or personal gifts to clients
• Do not transport clients in personal vehicles unless specifically authorized by the Organization
• Report any boundary concerns to a staff member immediately

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8. Safety and Conduct

To maintain a safe environment for everyone:

• Follow all safety procedures, emergency protocols, and staff instructions
• Do not perform tasks outside the scope of your assigned volunteer role
• Do not come to volunteer activities under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Report any unsafe conditions, accidents, or injuries to staff immediately
• Firearms, weapons, and illegal substances are strictly prohibited at all volunteer activities

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9. Use of Organization Resources

Organizational resources — including equipment, supplies, vehicles, and digital systems — are to be used only for authorized volunteer activities. Volunteers must not:

• Use organizational resources for personal purposes
• Access organizational systems, files, or data beyond what is required for their role
• Represent the Organization on social media or in public communications without authorization

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10. Reliability and Commitment

The Organization depends on volunteers to show up when scheduled. Volunteers are expected to:

• Honor commitments and arrive on time for scheduled activities
• Notify your volunteer supervisor as early as possible if you are unable to fulfill a scheduled commitment
• Complete assigned tasks with care and follow through on responsibilities

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11. Reporting Concerns

Volunteers are encouraged to report any concerns about safety, misconduct, or policy violations. Reports may be made to:

• Volunteer Supervisor / Coordinator: [Name / Contact]
• Executive Director: [Name / Contact]

The Organization will not retaliate against any volunteer who raises a concern in good faith. All reports will be handled with appropriate confidentiality.

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12. Violations and Removal

Violations of this Code of Conduct may result in:

• A verbal or written warning
• Reassignment to a different volunteer role
• Suspension or permanent removal from volunteer service
• Referral to law enforcement if the conduct involves illegal activity

The Organization reserves the right to remove any volunteer from service at any time.

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Disclaimer: This template is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Adapt this policy to fit your organization’s specific context, programs, and applicable state laws. If your volunteers work with vulnerable populations — including children, the elderly, or individuals with disabilities — consult a nonprofit attorney to ensure your policies meet all applicable legal requirements.

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Volunteer Acknowledgment

I have read and understand the Volunteer Code of Conduct of [Organization Name]. I agree to abide by these standards throughout my volunteer service and understand that violations may result in removal from the volunteer program.