Each year, thousands of volunteers dedicate their time and efforts to help housing organizations fulfill their mission of addressing critical community needs. Volunteers can be invaluable—whether they serve as officers on a Board of Commissioners or assist with community outreach programs. However, their involvement brings potential risks, including damage, injury, or liability for the organization. What happens if a volunteer is hurt, or if they inadvertently cause harm to a resident or another party? This guide outlines how to best manage these risks and protect both volunteers and your organization.

What you'll learn

  • The benefits of a structured volunteer program
  • How to define volunteer roles and responsibilities
  • Risk management strategies for engaging volunteers
  • Best practices for volunteer recruitment and retention
  • Legal and ethical considerations when managing volunteers

Why this matters

Having a robust volunteer program and policy allows organizations to maximize the positive impact of volunteers, ensuring that both volunteers and organizations are protected. With clear guidelines in place, housing organizations can avoid potential pitfalls and create a structured, supportive environment where volunteers can thrive.

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Be sure to explore the full range of resources we’ve curated in our Resource Center, designed to help you stay informed, prepared, and proactive in managing maintenance-related risks.

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