Creating a volunteer handbook

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Abstract

A volunteer handbook can serve as an important part of orientation and as a convenient reference tool for those in community service and volunteering. There are several service organizations that have already created useful handbooks. This effective practice draws on the experience of two of those organizations by outlining the important elements of their volunteer manuals. Refer to the Augusta, Georgia Senior Corps handbook and the RSVP of South Central Texas handbook for information and ideas for your program.

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Issue

Creating a volunteer handbook that contains useful and practical information for volunteers.

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Action

Volunteer handbooks should include most, if not all, of the following information:
  • General information
    • Office locations
    • Volunteer stations
    • Current programs
    • Contact information
  • Welcome message from the program director
  • Definition of terms or acronyms
  • Introduction that includes both a local and national history
  • Sample forms
    • Work contracts or assignments
    • Timesheets — importance of reporting hours of service
    • Travel log or expense voucher
    • Volunteer registration form
  • Explanation of organizational structure (chart or diagram)
  • Listing of advisory council or board members
  • Account of financial structure or funding sources
  • Enrollment policies and procedures
  • Volunteer rights and responsibilities
  • Volunteer training
    • Pre-service orientation
    • Confidentiality
    • On the job orientation
    • In-service training
    • Volunteer station training
  • Rewards and benefits to volunteers; include information on
    • Stipend (if applicable)
    • Transportation
    • Meals
    • Medical and other leaves
    • Holidays
  • Insurance: accident and liability
  • Recognition: events, newsletter, other
  • Volunteer Separation
    • Resignation
    • Disciplinary action
    • Loss of funding
    • Termination of benefits
  • Information for volunteers with disabilities: inclusion and accessibility

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Context

Volunteers in all areas of service appreciate the convenience and accessibility of having a handbook where they can get information on volunteer and programmatic issues.

Depending on size and need of the program, volunteer handbooks may or may not contain all of the elements listed in this practice. Program directors should assess program needs individually to make this determination.

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Outcome

Creating a handbook for volunteers allows volunteers to be better informed and consequently, more effective service members.

For program directors, putting together a volunteer handbook can be a great opportunity to consolidate information, forms, and to renew and refocus on program goals.

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Posted On

August 26, 2002

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Resources

Generic Volunteer Orientation Manual: Your Guide to Developing an Orientation Manuals for Volunteers
Resource Center Library item number: R0926

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