Homelessness 101
RULES
In order to protect the youth and our volunteers there are some rules that we require our volunteers abide by.
1.Never be alone with a youth.
2.No inappropriate touching, no hugs, hands on shoulders, or anything of the like.
3.Do not give a youth a ride in your car.
4.Do not agree to communicate or contact youth outside of the workshop/agency.
5.If you are uncomfortable with something don’t do it.
6.Respect their personal space; don’t touch youth’s belongings without permission.
7.Keep language appropriate, no potty mouth.
8.Respect confidentiality; consider yourself a guest in their home.
9.Dress casually and come with few belongings. Leave the ‘Bling’ at home.
10.Respect everyone and claim respect for yourself.
11.Treat youth equally.
12.Show up on time and follow through.
13.Be encouraging of their willingness to participate regardless of skill level or talent.
14.Participate in activities with youth.
15.Conversations should center around the planned activity.
16.Discourage youths dependency upon you.
17.Give full attention when youth are talking to you, non judgmental listening is the key to forming positive respectful relationships.
18.It is not your responsibility to ‘save’ or ‘fix’ people. Offer no advise of life experience.
19.Maintain healthy boundaries, you are not their friend or parent, you are a volunteer.
20.Don’t share overly personal information.
21.Don’t give gifts.
22.Exhibit compassion and caring consistent with your temporary position.
23.Do not talk about youth with other youth.
24.Law mandates that you report: abuse or neglect for those under 18, suicide, homicide or planned attacks. Never keep secrets with client. See agency personal with reports and please refer client to agency personal.
25.Self care: maintain balance in your life, listen to yourself.
26.Talk with agency contact if any situations develop that you are uncomfortable with or can’t handle.
27.If issues arise within you seek the support of another Sierra Dove or Arts in the Making volunteer for counsel.
