DCT Volunteer Application

Volunteer Guidelines

I acknowledge that my involvement as a volunteer with Designers and Creative Teams Against Domestic Violence (DCT) is voluntary, allowing either party, myself or the organization, to end the volunteer arrangement at any time and for any reason in accordance with applicable state or federal laws. Volunteers must be 18 years or older, with exceptions possible.

I grant DCT permission to conduct a comprehensive background check, examining both my professional and personal history, and to verify the information provided in this application and during interviews. If I volunteer with DCT Against Domestic Violence, I understand the obligation to comply with Florida laws and regulations related to childcare agencies.

Florida law mandates that Designers and Creative Teams Against Domestic Violence gather a minimum of three personal references to assess my moral character. Additionally, DCT is required to check for criminal convictions through the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and local law enforcement authorities, as well as consulting the Child Abuse Registry Information System. I hereby authorize DCT to carry out these checks.

By providing this authorization, I release DCT and its representatives or agents from any liability arising from the background investigation. I also authorize named individuals, schools, and organizations to disclose any requested information, holding them harmless from any liability associated with providing such information.

The Organization commits to

• Clearly define expectations in written form.
• Encourage, motivate, and adequately train volunteers to ensure a confident start in their roles.
• Offer volunteers a comfortable and supportive environment, along with necessary resources.
• Provide constructive feedback on volunteer performance at appropriate and regular intervals.
• Honor your skills, dignity, and individuality.
• Value and consider your feedback and suggestions.
• Acknowledge and appreciate your contributions, and community hours.
• Treat you as a collaborative partner.

The Volunteer commits to

• Thoroughly familiarize themselves with the Organization’s written and verbal policies and procedures.
• Attend and successfully complete all required training to maintain active volunteer status.
• Be punctual and reliable in reporting for scheduled volunteer work, signing in and out accurately to record service hours. Note:
  • Two unscheduled absences within any two consecutive months will prompt a meeting to discuss expectations and responsibilities.
  • Three unscheduled absences within any two consecutive months may lead to the volunteer's release from the Program. An unscheduled absence is defined as not showing up without notice, excluding those who provide advance notice.
• Notify the Training Specialist and assigned department supervisor if unable to perform services as scheduled, preferably as early as possible to allow reassignment of another volunteer if necessary.
• Respect the roles of the Organization's paid staff and actively contribute to maintaining a harmonious working relationship between paid staff and volunteers.
• Acknowledge the Organization's right to release any volunteer for any reason, in accordance with applicable law.
• Exercise caution when representing the Organization and uphold the confidentiality of all information related to the Organization.
• Understand and adhere to the appropriate channels of communication and grievance procedures outlined in the Volunteer Policy.