Volunteer Agreement (in volunteer management): A document outlining expectations and responsibilities.
Volunteer agreement
A volunteer agreement is a formal document that establishes the relationship between a nonprofit organization and its volunteers, outlining expectations, responsibilities, and commitments for both parties. This essential document helps create clear understanding and prevents misunderstandings while protecting both the organization and its volunteers.
Common questions about volunteer agreements
Is a volunteer agreement legally binding?
While not an employment contract, a volunteer agreement can have certain legally binding elements, particularly regarding confidentiality and safety procedures. However, its primary purpose is to establish clear expectations rather than create legal obligations.
It should prevent issues like a volunteer assuming they have more responsibility than defined, or conversely, a volunteer feeling unsupported due to a lack of clarity on their duties. Providing this guidance through a contract emphasizes professionalism and respect for all contributors while fostering a supportive and inviting environment.
When should organizations use a volunteer agreement?
Organizations should implement volunteer agreements for all regular volunteers, particularly those involved in sensitive work, handling confidential information, or representing the organization publicly.
Key components of a volunteer agreement
When drafting a volunteer agreement, focus on clear, straightforward language that both parties can easily understand. Include specific details about the volunteer role while maintaining flexibility for occasional changes in duties or schedules.
Think of it as the “user manual” for your volunteers. Within this agreement, you’ll outline specific duties to be performed, time commitments expected, and organizational policies that volunteers must adhere to. For instance, if a volunteer is responsible for organizing community events, specify the number of hours required each week and any necessary reports or evaluations.
An effective volunteer agreement should include:
- Role description and specific responsibilities
- Time commitment expectations and scheduling
- Training requirements and support provided
- Confidentiality and data protection policies
- Health and safety guidelines
- Volunteer rights and benefits
- Organization’s responsibilities and commitments
- Termination procedures
How we can help
Zelos is a volunteer management app that encourages organizations to clearly detail both general house rules as well as job descriptions for volunteers, and allows for ongoing communication—essential for addressing any concerns or updates.
Sign up for a free account on our website to see how it fits with your needs!