Be A Volunteer

Volunteers, and the contributions they make through volunteering, significantly enhance the quality of life, community spirit and leisure time opportunities in the City of Kawartha Lakes. When involved with Humane Society Kawartha Lakes volunteers improve the life of the animals that come into the care of the organization and help to educate the community regarding issues related to appropriate animal care.

Volunteers are accorded the same dignity and respect as staff. They are valued for their input and called upon for their opinions. Volunteers have the opportunity to effect change in the services provided by the HSKL through their general involvement, through their input on the board, committees, events and participation in Adoption Centre operations.

A HSKL volunteer is someone who without compensation beyond reimbursement for out of pocket expenses, performs a task at the direction of and on behalf of the organization. A volunteer must be registered and oriented prior to performance of any Humane Society Kawartha Lakes volunteer activity.

Humane Society Kawartha Lakes volunteers are considered team members working with staff in fulfilling the organization mission.

Download our Volunteer Form to apply.

Volunteer Rights and Responsibilities

Volunteers of Humane Society of Kawartha Lakes have Rights and Responsibilities. These Rights and Responsibilities are in keeping with HSKL's mission and vision and promote respectful and rewarding relationships among, volunteers, staff and the community.

Procedure

1. The Coordinator will provide each new volunteer with a copy of the Volunteer Rights and Responsibilities during the orientation process. The Coordinator will review the rights and responsibilities to ensure volunteer understanding.


2. Each volunteer will have opportunities to ask questions to ensure understanding.

Volunteer Rights

1. You will be treated with dignity and respect.


2. You will be treated as a co-worker.


3. You will have the support of other volunteers and staff.


4. You will be given a suitable assignment with consideration for personal preference, skills and education.


5. You may request help if a job is too large or strenuous.


6. You will receive orientation when starting the position and on-going training to update and refine skills.


7. You will receive guidance and direction.


8. Your comments and concerns regarding working conditions or clients will be addressed by your Coordinator/Manager.


9. You will be heard, have a part in planning, and be shown respect for your opinion.


10. You will be appreciated and recognized for your service.


11. Your personal information will be kept confidential.


12. You will work in a safe environment.


13. You may refuse to do any task that you feel to be unsafe.

Volunteer Responsibilities

As a volunteer, you have the responsibility to:

1. Understand your volunteer role.


2. Carry out the duties promptly and reliably to the best of your ability.


3. Be sincere in the offer of service. Be loyal to the organization.


4. Maintain the dignity and integrity of the organization.


5. Maintain standards of confidentiality regarding organization information.


6. Participate in orientation and ongoing training.


7. Accept the guidance and decisions of your Coordinator/Manager.


8. Maintain a positive working relationship with others and work within the boundaries of the volunteer position description.


9. Collect specified fees and remit according to organization policy.