VC Roles, Differentiating Volunteers & Paid Staff, Ethical Boundaries

Question 1

Identify 5 key roles and responsibilities of a Volunteer Coordinator and give 2 examples each

(Common functions)

Answer 1

a) Recruitment and selection of volunteers

* Planning how, when and where to recruit volunteers
* Organising interviews to select volunteers.

b) Orientation/induction for volunteers

* Coordinating volunteer orientation programmes 
* Demonstrating and providing training in the use of office equipment or specific tools if any.

c) Organisation and support of volunteers

* Evaluating performance of volunteers
* Counselling volunteers when required

d) Administration

* Maintaining records of volunteer bio-data
* Preparing correspondences and notices for volunteers

e) Communicating with and motivating volunteers

* Liaising with volunteers in matters pertaining to volunteers' activities or tasks
* Resolving conflicts between volunteers, or with paid staff, if any

Question 2

Describe 2 ways to differentiate Volunteers and Paid Staff

Answer 2

1. Involve paid staff when drawing up roles for volunteers. Ask them specifically in what areas they would like volunteers to be involved.
   
   2. Ensure there is clear distinction between the tasks to be performed by paid staff and volunteers. Roles of volunteers and the paid staff should supplement or complement each other and must not be familiar.

Question 3

Describe 6 Ethical Boundaries

Answer 3

1. Refrain from using profane and abusive language
   
   2. Keep personal information about paid staff and fellow volunteers confidential
   3. Refrain from abusive behaviours - sexual harrassment, telling inapropriate or offensive jokes
   4. Refrain from preaching or discussing sensitive topics like political, cultural, religious contents
   5. Being truthful to everyone
   6. Displaying honest behaviours at all times