Volunteer Application

In signing this application, I understand and agree to the following:

• I agree to abide by the policies and procedures presented to me during the course of my volunteer activities. I understand that I am responsible for reviewing all the materials given to me at orientations and trainings.

• I understand that the goal of volunteering is to engage and educate the public on the mission and philosophy of the Humane Society of Douglas County (HSDC), and my actions should always further this goal. I understand that I can and should always seek guidance if I am ever unclear about the mission, philosophy or practices of HSDC.

• I authorize the Humane Society of Douglas County (HSDC) to seek emergency medical treatment in case of accident, injury, or illness. If I am injured while acting as an unpaid member of the volunteer staff, I am not covered by the Humane Society of Douglas County’s insurance carrier.

• I understand that if I am injured while acting as an unpaid member of the volunteer staff that I am not covered by Wisconsin’s state workers' compensation law.

• I understand that HSDC welcomes and relies upon volunteer feedback. If I am ever in disagreement with any philosophy, policy or practice of HSDC, I agree to use the appropriate, established communication channels to share my concerns or feedback in order to eliminate miscommunication or redundant efforts. The channels are, in order:
1) Communicate first with the Volunteer Coordinator.
2) If you feel your concern was not addressed at this level, you should then communicate it directly to the Executive Director.
3) Finally, if your concern remains unaddressed, you should bring it to the HSDC Board of Directors.

• I know that as an HSDC volunteer, I represent the Humane Society, and I promise not to engage in any activity - whether physical, verbal or written - that may cause harm to the reputation of HSDC. I agree to be a role model for the humane treatment of animals, at home as well as while working with the shelter animals.

• I understand that HSDC records or discussion regarding previous and new pet owners are to be kept confidential.

• I understand that if I am bitten or witness a bite, it is my responsibility to report the bite immediately to the Humane Society of Douglas County (to either the Volunteer Coordinator or the Shelter Director). It is the law to report any bites where the skin may be broken. Failure to report may result in termination from the Humane Society of Douglas County (HSDC) volunteer program.

• HSDC has my permission to use any and all photographs taken of me to promote Society services and programs or to publicize any event. I understand that all prints, negatives, and graphics files become the sole property of HSDC and may be used without payment or prior notification.

• I agree to accept supervision and support from the HSDC staff and understand that they will provide me with feedback to insure my safety or to help me perform my volunteer duties most effectively.

• I agree to conduct myself in an appropriate and professional manner while volunteering for HSDC, following & publicly supporting HSDC philosophies, policies and practices.

• I understand that failing to observe the above agreements along with the policies and procedures of the Humane Society of Douglas County (HSDC) could result in my dismissal from the volunteer program.