OPEN HAND ATLANTA VOLUNTEER WAIVER

I have read, understood, and agree to abide by the Open Hand Volunteer Handbook, located here:

CONFIDENTIALITY/LIABILITY AGREEMENT: As a volunteer representative of Open Hand Atlanta, Inc. I, the undersigned, acknowledge that the unauthorized disclosure of information designated as confidential violates the right to privacy of the client and Open Hand Atlanta, Inc. and do hereby recognize that it is my responsibility to hold such information in confidence. The violation of confidentiality may result in my immediate termination as an Open Hand Atlanta volunteer and may also lead to legal action. I hereby have read and agree to all the terms and conditions set forth to be a volunteer.

I, the undersigned, acknowledge that I hereby volunteer my services to Open Hand Atlanta, Inc. In connection with my voluntary involvement in activities undertaken for, and with the participation and support of Open Hand Atlanta, I hereby agree to release and discharge Open Hand Atlanta, its officers directors, employees, agents, and volunteers from all claims, demands, and actions for injuries sustained to me and/or my property as a result of my participation and involvement in such activities, whether or not resulting from the negligence of Open Hand Atlanta, Inc., and I also agree to release, indemnify and hold harmless Open Hand Atlanta, Inc., its officers and directors, employees, agents and volunteers from any cause or action, claim, or suit arising there from. By my signature below, I also authorize my likeness and/or image to be used by Open Hand Atlanta, Inc.

DELIVERY VOLUNTEERS: If delivering on behalf of Open Hand Atlanta, Inc., I, the undersigned, acknowledge and hereby state that I have both a valid driver’s license and a valid automobile insurance policy with limits of liability of not less than $100,000 per accident for bodily injury and property damage. I agree to provide a picture copy of my driver’s license and I agree to provide Open Hand Atlanta with notice if there is any change in the status of my driver’s license. I acknowledge and agree with this auto insurance requirement and provide my assurances that this insurance coverage does exist and is in place. I agree to maintain said license and insurance while I am delivering meals to clients of Open Hand Atlanta, Inc. Further, I am knowledgeable of the traffic laws of the State of Georgia, including the laws prohibiting those under the influence of alcohol or other intoxicating substances from operating a motor vehicle, and I agree to abide by these laws while driving for Open Hand Atlanta. I agree not to use a cellular phone while driving whether for texting, verbal communications, or GPS purposes. I also agree to adhere to strict food safety and food sanitation policies when delivering meals as instructed by Open Hand Atlanta. I agree to permit Open Hand Atlanta, Inc. to obtain Motor Vehicle Reports (MVRs) and to make background checks on me. I, the undersigned, acknowledge, and hereby state that if I am going to volunteer as a delivery driver, I am 25 years of age or older. I acknowledge that I am not authorized to enter a client’s residence and agree that I will adhere to this policy.

PHOTO RELEASE: I hereby authorize Open Hand Atlanta, Inc., its representatives and enterprises, the right to take photographs or video of me and to publish these photographs or video, along with use of my name, as noted below, in broadcast media, printed publications and/or digital communications, including the Open Hand Atlanta website. I acknowledge that, since my participation in these broadcasts, publications, videos and/or digital communications is voluntary, and I will receive no financial compensation. I further agree that my participation in any such broadcast, publication, video and/or digital medium confers upon me no rights of ownership whatsoever. I agree that Open Hand Atlanta may use such photographs, video footage and audio with or without my name and for any lawful purpose including, for example, publicity, illustration, advertising, marketing and internet content.
I release Open Hand Atlanta, its contractors and enterprises from liability for any claims by me or any third party in connection with my participation.

Open Hand Volunteer Code of Conduct
As a volunteer with Open Hand, you are a valued part of our mission to support and uplift the community through service and compassion. In order to ensure a positive, productive, and respectful environment, we ask that you adhere to the following guidelines while representing our organization.
1. Commitment to the Mission: Volunteers are expected to align with Open Hand’s core values of kindness, respect, and service. You should strive to treat all individuals—whether they are clients, fellow volunteers, or staff—with dignity and empathy. Your role is integral to our goal of providing assistance to those in need, and we ask that you remain dedicated to this purpose during your volunteer activities.
2. Non-Financial Compensation: As a volunteer, you acknowledge that your time and contributions to Open Hand are provided without financial compensation. This is a voluntary role, and while you are offering your skills and effort, no monetary remuneration will be provided for your work. However, Open Hand is committed to offering meaningful experiences that allow you to grow personally and professionally, and we appreciate the dedication and commitment you provide.
3. Behavior and Professionalism: Volunteers are expected to act in a professional manner at all times. This includes respecting Open Hand’s policies, maintaining confidentiality when necessary, and ensuring that all interactions—whether with clients, other volunteers, or staff—are conducted in a manner that reflects positively on the organization. Any form of disruptive behavior, disrespect, or failure to follow the guidelines may result in the immediate termination of volunteer privileges.
4. Termination of Volunteer Status: Open Hand reserves the right to terminate volunteer involvement at any time, at our sole discretion. If a volunteer’s actions are deemed incompatible with Open Hand’s mission or standards, or if their presence is disruptive to the functioning of the organization, their volunteer status may be revoked without prior notice. Termination should follow this process:
1. Evaluate the Situation
Before taking any action, assess the volunteer's behavior or performance to ensure termination is warranted. Common reasons for termination might include:
• Consistent failure to meet responsibilities or performance standards
• Harassing other employees of Open Hand employees
• Inappropriate behavior or lack of professionalism
• (2) consecutive “no call / no-show” instances for their opportunity
Ensure that all issues have been documented and that you have given the volunteer a reasonable opportunity to improve or address concerns.
2. Schedule a Private Meeting
Arrange a private, face-to-face meeting with the volunteer. This should be done in a respectful and confidential environment. Avoid delivering termination news in public or in front of other volunteers. Acknowledge their contributions and explain the situation clearly and calmly. If possible, have a supervisor or another representative from HR present for support.
3. Communicate the Termination Decision
During the meeting, clearly explain the reasons for termination. Be honest but tactful in your communication. Avoid placing blame and focus on specific behaviors or actions that led to the decision. Offer the volunteer an opportunity to ask questions or express their feelings, but remain professional and empathetic. If applicable, explain any consequences (such as losing volunteer access to programs) and provide any necessary documentation.
4. Offer Transition Support and Exit Process
Provide the volunteer with support in their transition. Offer to assist them with finding other volunteer opportunities, if appropriate, or refer them to other organizations. Ensure they return any Open Hand property (e.g., ID badge, equipment, uniforms) and that their volunteer record is updated accordingly. If appropriate, offer an exit interview to gather feedback on their experience at Open Hand.

We thank you for your commitment to Open Hand and for helping us make a positive impact on the community. Your participation is valued, and we look forward to the difference we can make together.