Volunteer Policies and Standards of Conduct

1. Welcome to AnimalKind! We are thrilled to have you as a volunteer. Your contribution plays a critical role in our mission to improve the lives of animals in our community. In order to ensure a positive, respectful, and safe experience for all volunteers, animals, and staff, we’ve outlined the following Volunteer Policies and Code of Conduct.

By volunteering with AnimalKind New York, you are agreeing to abide by these policies and guidelines. Thank you for your commitment to our cause!

2. Volunteer Policies

2.1. Eligibility & Application Process

  • Volunteers must be at least 18 years old (under 18 must have parent or legal guardian consent, under 16 must have parent or legal guardian accompaniment — volunteers younger than 16 will be approved on a case-by-case basis).

  • All volunteers must submit a completed volunteer application, which includes providing contact details, emergency contacts, and any relevant experience or skills.

  • All volunteers are expected to attend an orientation session to become familiar with AnimalKind New York’s policies, programs, and procedures.

2.2. Volunteer Roles & Responsibilities

  • Volunteers are expected to fulfill the duties outlined in their role description. Roles may include tasks like animal care, event assistance, fundraising, administrative support, and public outreach.

  • If a volunteer has chosen to volunteer in any non-animal handling roles or has not completed the FearFree™ Shelters Certification, they must not interact or handle any animals at our facility.

  • Volunteers must only be present on-site during our open volunteer hours between Tuesdays-Sundays 9am-4pm.

2.3. Health & Safety

  • All volunteers are required to follow safety protocols as outlined during their orientation. This includes proper handling of animals and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) as needed.

  • Volunteers should report any injuries, accidents, or unsafe conditions immediately to a staff member.

  • Volunteers should not engage in activities that may put themselves, animals, or others at risk. If a volunteer feels unwell or is injured, they should inform a staff member immediately.

2.4. Communication

  • Volunteers should maintain open and respectful communication with AnimalKind staff and other volunteers.

  • Volunteers should check in with staff if they have any questions or concerns.

2.6. Respect for Animals

  • Volunteers should always show respect and kindness to the animals in our care.

  • Volunteers must follow instructions for the safe and humane handling of animals.

2.7. Alcohol & Drug Use

  • The consumption of alcohol or drugs is strictly prohibited during volunteer shifts.

  • Any volunteer found violating this policy will be immediately dismissed from their volunteer role.

2.8. Discrimination and Harassment

  • AnimalKind is committed to a zero-tolerance policy regarding discrimination, harassment, or abuse of any kind. Volunteers are expected to treat each other, staff, and animals with dignity and respect at all times.

  • Discriminatory, harassing, or inappropriate behavior will not be tolerated, and any instances should be reported to a staff member immediately.

3. Code of Conduct

  • The following Code of Conduct is designed to maintain a safe, respectful, and productive environment for all volunteers, staff, and animals.

3.1. Respect for Others

  • Volunteers are expected to interact with fellow volunteers, staff, and visitors in a professional, respectful, and supportive manner.

  • Disrespectful or aggressive behavior toward others is not acceptable and may result in disciplinary action, including termination of volunteer status.

3.2. Accountability & Integrity

  • Volunteers must perform their duties with integrity, honesty, and commitment.

  • Volunteers should avoid conflicts of interest, and should not engage in any activities that might undermine AnimalKind’s mission or reputation.

3.3. Respect for Diversity

  • Volunteers are expected to respect and embrace diversity, including differing backgrounds, beliefs, and experiences.

  • AnimalKind celebrates inclusivity and strives to provide a safe space for all individuals, regardless of race, religion, gender, or sexual orientation.

3.4. Responsibility & Professionalism

  • Volunteers are expected to maintain a high standard of professionalism at all times, including during shifts, in communication with the public, and when representing the organization in any capacity.

  • Volunteers should follow instructions given by staff members and ask for clarification if needed.

  • Volunteers should be reliable, punctual, and prepared to complete the tasks assigned to them.

3.5. Conflict Resolution

  • If a volunteer encounters a conflict or disagreement with a fellow volunteer, staff member, or a client, they should address it in a respectful and constructive manner.

  • If the situation cannot be resolved independently, volunteers should escalate the issue to a staff member.

3.6. Use of Social Media

  • Volunteers are encouraged to promote AnimalKind New York through social media, but they must do so in a manner that reflects the organization’s values.

  • Volunteers should refrain from making negative or controversial statements related to AnimalKind on social media.

  • Volunteers are not authorized to speak on behalf of AnimalKind unless granted specific permission.