At Compassion Ministries, we are committed to providing a safe, respectful, and empowering environment for our residents, volunteers, and staff. As a volunteer, you agree to uphold the following standards:
1. Professionalism & Respect
Volunteers must conduct themselves in a professional, respectful, and courteous manner at all times. Treat all residents, staff, and fellow volunteers with dignity and compassion, recognizing that many of the young mothers we serve have experienced trauma.
2. Boundaries & Appropriate Conduct
Respect personal boundaries at all times. Avoid inappropriate physical contact and always ask permission before initiating contact (such as a hug or handshake).
Volunteers must not engage in romantic or personal relationships with residents. Any situation that may compromise professional boundaries should be reported to staff immediately.
3. Confidentiality
All information regarding residents, staff, and volunteers is confidential. Do not share personal or sensitive information outside of approved contexts, unless required by law or directed by staff.
4. Safe & Substance-Free Environment
Compassion Ministries is a drug-, alcohol-, and tobacco-free organization. Volunteers must not use, possess, or be under the influence of these substances during any volunteer activities or while on ministry property.
Providing, offering, purchasing, or facilitating access to alcohol, tobacco, vaping products, illegal drugs, or any controlled substances for residents is strictly prohibited and will result in immediate dismissal from volunteer service.
We take allegations or suspicions of child abuse or unsafe behavior seriously and report concerns in accordance with state law.
5. Behavior & Accountability
Volunteers are expected to maintain a positive, helpful attitude and serve as role models. Bullying, harassment, threatening behavior, or abuse of any kind will not be tolerated.
Volunteers must follow through on commitments, communicate concerns promptly, and report any violations of policy to staff.
6. Teamwork & Cooperation
Volunteers serve in a support role under the direction of staff. Volunteers are not counselors, case managers, or authority figures within the program.
Work collaboratively with staff and fellow volunteers. Be open to guidance, training, and feedback, and follow all organizational policies and procedures.
If a resident shares concerning information — including (but not limited to) statements related to self-harm, harm to others, abuse, neglect, substance use, or other safety concerns — volunteers must report this information to the Volunteer Coordinator or appropriate staff member immediately. Volunteers should not attempt to handle serious situations independently.
7. Stewardship of Resources
Organization supplies, equipment, and facilities must only be used for approved volunteer purposes. Misuse or theft will result in termination.
8. Non-Discrimination
Compassion Ministries does not tolerate discrimination based on race, ethnicity, gender, age, religion, sexual orientation, or other protected characteristics.
9. Personal & Spiritual Integrity
As a Christ-centered organization, we ask volunteers to model integrity, humility, and kindness consistent with our mission. Volunteers must not impose personal beliefs on residents but should demonstrate Christ-like service and respect.
By signing below, you acknowledge that you have read, understand, and agree to uphold this Volunteer Code of Conduct. Failure to adhere to these standards may result in suspension or termination of volunteer service.