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How we expect you to serve
Compassion works best with clarity
These are the shared expectations prospective volunteers should understand. Detailed procedures come later through the handbook and applicable role training.
Select each expectation to learn what it means in practice.
01Be dependable
Choose only opportunities you can reasonably complete. Once you accept an assignment, follow through and communicate promptly if something changes. The 24-hour response expectation applies while you are actively serving on an assignment—not to every general request when you are inactive.
02Treat people with dignity
Serve neighbors, volunteers, and partners with respect, inclusion, and without judgment. Honor a neighbor’s autonomy. This is neighbor-to-neighbor service, not rescue.
Gifts are generally discouraged so no one feels obligated to give in order to receive. If a neighbor insists, a small nonmonetary item or something worth less than $5 may be accepted if it does not burden them. Decline cash and costly gifts.
03Protect privacy
Protect identifying and personal information. Use authorized Hometown Outreach communication, and never share a neighbor’s photograph, story, or identifying details without approval and proper consent.
04Maintain appropriate boundaries
Stay within your assigned role. Bring additional needs back to Hometown Outreach and do not promise services, funds, resources, or timelines. Case volunteers coordinate proposed solutions, sponsors, and partnerships through the organization.
05Prioritize safety
Closed-toe shoes are expected for deliveries, packing, lifting, and other physical work; event attire may differ. Most deliveries happen at the doorway or porch. You may place items just inside when asked and, in approved circumstances, carry them to the kitchen for a neighbor who cannot move them. Never lift or transfer a neighbor, and do not enter if conditions feel unsafe.
06Represent Hometown Outreach responsibly
Public-facing volunteers receive one branded Hometown Outreach T-shirt. Delivery drivers also receive a branded mirror hanger to use during distribution pickups. Use approved information and do not speak or make commitments beyond your authority.
07Complete role documentation
Documentation varies by role. Driving assignments track mileage and time. Companion Calls track time, a broad summary, and needs requiring follow-up. Medical accompaniment requires a visit record. Approved payments require receipts. Instructions come during onboarding or role training.
08Ask when you are unsure
Questions are welcome. Pause and contact the Volunteer Coordinator rather than guessing or acting outside your role.
Jill Spicer, Volunteer Coordinator
850-738-3113
The simple version
You choose whether to accept an opportunity. Once you say yes, we ask you to communicate and follow through.