Volunteer Sign-Up & Liability Waiver
Volunteer Agreement, Release of Liability, and Indemnification
In consideration of being permitted to participate in any way as a volunteer with Active Helping Hands, a California nonprofit organization (the "Organization"), including any of its programs, events, activities, transportation, or use of facilities (collectively, "Volunteer Activities"), I, the undersigned volunteer, acknowledge, agree, and represent the following:
1. Assumption of Risk. I understand that Volunteer Activities may involve risk of personal injury, illness (including communicable disease), property damage, or death. I voluntarily assume full responsibility for any and all risks of loss, damage, or injury that may be sustained by me, or any loss or damage to property owned by me, as a result of participating in Volunteer Activities.
2. Release and Waiver of Liability. I hereby release, waive, discharge, and covenant not to sue the Organization, its directors, officers, employees, agents, volunteers, and affiliates (collectively, the "Released Parties") from any and all liability, claims, demands, actions, and causes of action whatsoever arising out of or related to any loss, damage, injury, or death that may be sustained by me while participating in Volunteer Activities, whether caused by the negligence of the Released Parties or otherwise, to the fullest extent permitted by law.
3. Indemnification. I agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless the Released Parties from any loss, liability, damage, or cost, including reasonable attorneys' fees, that they may incur due to my participation in Volunteer Activities, whether caused by my negligence or otherwise.
4. Medical Authorization. I authorize the Organization to obtain or provide emergency medical treatment on my behalf if I am unable to consent, and I accept responsibility for the cost of any such treatment. I confirm I am physically able to perform volunteer duties and have disclosed any relevant medical conditions below.
5. Code of Conduct. I agree to follow all Organization policies, safety instructions, and reasonable directions from staff. I will treat clients, staff, and fellow volunteers with respect and confidentiality. I will not be under the influence of drugs or alcohol while volunteering, and I will not use volunteer status to solicit business, funds, or personal relationships. I understand that volunteering is at-will and may be ended by either party at any time.
6. Independent Status; No Employment. I understand I am serving as an unpaid volunteer, not an employee, agent, or independent contractor of the Organization. I am not entitled to wages, workers' compensation, unemployment benefits, or any other employee benefit.
7. Confidentiality. I agree to keep confidential all non-public information about clients, staff, donors, and program participants that I learn during Volunteer Activities, both during and after my service.
8. Photo & Media Release. I grant the Organization permission to use my likeness in photographs, video, and audio recordings taken during Volunteer Activities for educational, promotional, and fundraising purposes, without compensation.
9. Background Check Consent. I understand certain volunteer roles may require a background check, and I agree to complete one if requested.
10. Governing Law; Severability. This agreement is governed by the laws of the State of California. If any provision is held unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall remain in full force.
11. Parent/Guardian Consent (Minors). If the volunteer is under 18, a parent or legal guardian must sign on their behalf and agrees to all terms above on the minor's behalf.
I have read this agreement in full, understand it, and sign it freely and voluntarily.