Seeking additional experience? Consider helping your community. Offer your time to organizations that rely on volunteers to function. Gain and graduate with the experience that will help you find a job. Volunteering may be a part of your life whether in school or when you graduate. Consider these five simple reasons to make volunteering part of your college experience:
- You can make a difference, and contribute to things you care about.
- Volunteering may help you find a career path and explore new interests.
- Volunteering provides opportunities to work with diverse populations. Meet other students and members of your community.
- Employers seek students who have leadership skills and experience. Volunteering is an opportunity to gain just that.
- Short or long-term commitment that allows you to improve your community and gain real-world experience.
Guidelines For a Successful Volunteering Experience:
Understand Your Community Needs
- Be open and flexible to new experiences and expectations
- Assist with the community needs that exist independently from you own expectations
- Opportunities will arise unexpectedly, and not at the time/manner you would anticipate
Your Rights
- It is important that you have a positive volunteer experience
- You have the right to say no if you are uncomfortable
- Be oriented/trained to the organization (background check may be included)
- Have your service hours documented and be supervised
Your Responsibilities
- Represent Bauer and UH professionally
- No need to accept gifts or give gifts to clients
- Volunteer with enthusiasm and commitment
Avoid Injuries
- In case of serious injury, contact your manager
- Be properly trained to use any equipment
- Wear protective clothes/equipment
- Be aware of your environment
Always Be Prepared
- Arrive on time
- Dress appropriately
- Take responsibility for any missed shifts
Sexual Harassment
- Is illegal and will not be tolerated
- Seek out the program coordinator about any unwelcomed situation
- Contact the Rockwell Career Center
Transportation
- Never take clients in your vehicle (unless it is part of your program and you have clearance with all parties involved)
- In the event of an accident or incident you may be held liable
- Seek out the program coordinator if you have questions
Confidentiality and Personal Information
- Do not disclose any personal information about clients
- Maintain client and agency information with confidentiality
- Respect the privacy of clients, be mindful of records laws (FERPA)
Termination of Your Service
- Give at least two weeks notice
- Be respectful and professional