Volunteer Policy – Allen Bailey Foundation & Sapelo Strong

Effective Date: May 2024

Updated and Adapted, Effective: May 2024 from allenbaileycharities.org, abfchampions.org
Updated: October 2024

The Allen Bailey Foundation (ABF) and its affiliated initiative, Sapelo Strong, are volunteer-based nonprofit programs dedicated to empowering youth, communities, and providing relief to the Sapelo Island community through sports, education, cultural preservation, and disaster recovery. Our success depends on the commitment and dedication of volunteers like you. This policy outlines the guidelines and expectations for all volunteers to ensure a positive, effective partnership.

Introduction

Volunteers play a critical role in all ABF programs, including the Sapelo Strong initiative, which was launched to support the recovery efforts for Sapelo Island following the Marsh Landing tragedy. Volunteers are engaged in a variety of roles that contribute to both immediate relief and long-term community building.

Purpose of the Volunteer Policy

This Volunteer Policy provides clear guidelines for volunteers to understand their roles and responsibilities while representing the Allen Bailey Foundation and Sapelo Strong. It also ensures volunteers are aware of the support and resources available to them.

Volunteer Eligibility

The Allen Bailey Foundation reserves the right in the foundation’s sole discretion to withdraw the volunteer from their role.

  • Age Requirement: Volunteers must be at least 16 years of age. Volunteers under 18 must have parental or guardian consent.
  • Background Check:
    • Volunteers working directly with vulnerable populations (such as children or those affected by the Sapelo Strong initiative) must consent to a background check.
    • The scope of the volunteer role will determine the need for the background check. Consent is required prior to participation in certain volunteer activities.
  • Skills and Experience: While no specific skills are required, certain roles may require specialized skills or certifications (e.g., first aid, trauma-informed care, crisis management, etc.).

Volunteer Roles and Responsibilities

Volunteers may serve in a variety of roles across the Allen Bailey Foundation’s programs and the Sapelo Strong initiative. These roles may include:

  • Event Setup and Teardown (e.g., fundraisers, community events)
  • Registration and Information Desks
  • Coaching or Mentoring Youth (through sports and educational programs)
  • Food and Beverage Assistance (e.g., community meals, relief supplies)
  • Rebuilding and Repairing Homes (as part of Sapelo Strong recovery efforts)
  • Counseling and Support Services (for impacted individuals and families, if qualified)
  • Medical Aid Support (if appropriately certified)
  • Administrative Assistance

Responsibilities:

  • Commitment: Volunteers are expected to adhere to the hours agreed upon and notify their supervisor if they are unable to fulfill their commitment.
  • Professionalism: Volunteers must treat all participants, staff, and fellow volunteers with respect and courtesy.
  • Confidentiality: Volunteers must protect sensitive information related to participants, particularly in the Sapelo Strong initiative.
  • Safety: Volunteers must follow all safety guidelines provided during training and orientation.

Volunteer Support and Training

  • Orientation:
    All volunteers will receive an orientation that includes the mission and values of the foundation and, where applicable, the specific goals of the Sapelo Strong initiative. Volunteers will also be informed about their roles and responsibilities.
  • Training:
    Role-specific training will be provided to ensure volunteers are prepared to carry out their duties. Volunteers engaged in sensitive roles, such as counseling or rebuilding efforts, will receive specialized training where necessary.
  • Supervision:
    Each volunteer will be assigned a supervisor who will provide guidance, support, and feedback throughout their service.

Code of Conduct

All volunteers are expected to:

  • Act in the best interest of the foundation and the Sapelo Strong initiative.
  • Maintain a high standard of integrity and ethics.
  • Refrain from any form of discrimination, harassment, or abuse.
  • Dress appropriately for the task or event at hand.
  • Report any concerns or incidents to their supervisor immediately.

Volunteer Rights

Volunteers have the right to:

  • Be treated with respect and dignity.
  • Receive the necessary training and support to perform their duties effectively.
  • Work in a safe and welcoming environment.
  • Be recognized and appreciated for their contributions.
  • Withdraw from their role at any time, with notice to their supervisor.

Volunteer Dismissal

While the Allen Bailey Foundation values the contributions of its volunteers, it reserves the right in its sole discretion to dismiss a volunteer if they:

  • Violate the code of conduct.
  • Fail to adhere to the foundation’s policies and procedures.
  • Engage in behavior that is harmful to participants, staff, or the reputation of the foundation and its programs, including Sapelo Strong.

Recognition and Appreciation

The Allen Bailey Foundation and Sapelo Strong recognize the efforts of their volunteers through:

  • Regular appreciation events and acknowledgments.
  • Certificates of service for significant contributions.
  • Opportunities for skill development, leadership roles, and personal growth.

Volunteer Consent for Background Check

For roles that involve interaction with vulnerable populations or require handling sensitive data, volunteers must agree to a background check. This applies to specific roles within the Sapelo Strong initiative, such as:

  • Working with children and families affected by the disaster.
  • Providing counseling or mental health support.
  • Handling sensitive personal data.

Consent:
By signing up for these roles, volunteers consent to the background check process. If the background check reveals issues that may affect the volunteer’s ability to serve, the foundation reserves the right to withdraw the volunteer from their role.

Waiver of Liability for Volunteers

By participating in volunteer activities, you agree to the following:

  • You waive all claims and hold harmless the Allen Bailey Foundation, Sapelo Strong, and all affiliated organizations (Sapelo Island Cultural and Revitalization Society, The Sapelo Project, Save Our Legacy Ourself, and Hog Hammock Community Foundation) from any liability related to injuries, damages, or losses incurred while volunteering.
  • Volunteers acknowledge that they are participating voluntarily and assume all risks associated with their roles.

Contact Information

For any questions, concerns, or more information about our volunteer program, please contact:

Allen Bailey Foundation
Email: volunteers@abfchampions.org
Phone: (912) 689-6324

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