Volunteer ManualPolicies and Procedures
Eastern Michigan University: MGMT 505 ASL ProjectAlekhya Mandadi | Jiawen Liu | Jacquelyn Manning | Maitreyee Kulkarni
Volunteer Coordinator: Mr. Jason Frenzel | [email protected]
Executive Director: Ms. Laura Rubin | [email protected]
ContentsINTRODUCTION...........................................................................................................................................3
ABOUT US....................................................................................................................................................3
Mission Statement...................................................................................................................................4
History of HRWC......................................................................................................................................4
HRWC FOCUS AREAS...................................................................................................................................6
VOLUNTEERS – THE HEART OF OUR MISSION.............................................................................................7
Benefits to HRWC Volunteers..................................................................................................................8
GETTING IN TOUCH WITH US....................................................................................................................10
RECRUITMENT...........................................................................................................................................11
FIRST TIME VOLUNTEERS...........................................................................................................................11
VOLUNTEER POLICIES AND PROCEDURES..................................................................................................11
Record Management.............................................................................................................................11
Dress Code.............................................................................................................................................12
Attendance and Time............................................................................................................................12
Project Placements................................................................................................................................12
Service Requirement.............................................................................................................................12
Altering the Requirements of the Job Description.................................................................................13
Training..................................................................................................................................................13
Youth Volunteer and/or Service Learning..............................................................................................13
Evaluation..............................................................................................................................................14
Recognition............................................................................................................................................14
Conduct.................................................................................................................................................15
Safety and Liability.................................................................................................................................16
Public Relations.....................................................................................................................................16
THANK YOU!..............................................................................................................................................16
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INTRODUCTION
This handbook is primarily for volunteers of the Huron River Watershed Council and describes the
history, mission, and projects of the Huron River Watershed Council. It contains all the information
pertaining to volunteers. This handbook will be updated every 3-5 years, so, if you come across
something you think needs to be included or something that needs updating, please let us know! Please
feel free to bring any questions or concerns to the staff.
ABOUT US
Founded in 1965, the Huron River Watershed Council (HRWC) is southeast Michigan’s oldest
environmental organization dedicated to river protection. The Huron River Watershed Council works to
inspire attitudes, behaviors, and economies to protect, rehabilitate, and sustain the Huron River System.
HRWC is a nonprofit coalition of Huron Valley residents, businesses, and local governments. The Council
bridges political boundaries by building partnerships between and among communities, community
leaders, residents, and commercial enterprises. Serving those constituencies, HRWC monitors the
Huron River, its tributaries, lakes, and groundwater, and directs multiple programs addressing pollution
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prevention and abatement, wetland and floodplain protection, citizen education, and natural resource
and land-use planning.
Since it was formed, the Council has served as a place where local units of government and citizens have
discussed problems and sought solutions to critical issues affecting the River. Even though the Council
has no enforcement powers, it has accomplished its goals through the use of technical data, factual
information and citizen stewardship to influence decisions made by various local and state agencies.
Mission Statement
The mission of the Council is to inspire attitudes, behaviors, and economies that protect, rehabilitate,
and sustain the Huron River system.
History of HRWC
The origin of the Council goes back to 1956 when a drought period caused severe water shortages in the
Detroit Metropolitan area. A controversy between Wayne County and Detroit resulted in a National
Sanitation Foundation study to survey present and future water resources and demands in the area.
At the same time, new industrial and subdivision development was occurring in Ann Arbor and eastern
Washtenaw County. Water
supply was sufficient, but
pollution in the river was a
growing problem, especially in
the narrow part below Ann
Arbor. The State Health
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Department studied the quality of the river and decided to restrict expansion of any sewage treatment
plants.
Washtenaw County Planning Department was concerned about the impact of this policy on future
watershed to help resolve water use and pollution concerns. Among the findings of the report, the
Water Resource Conditions and Use in
the Huron River Basin, was a
recommendation that an agency was
needed to evaluate the quality of the
Huron River on a continuing basis.
Public Act 200 of 1957 provided the
basis for the local units of government
to establish a cooperative information,
research and consultative agency to tackle multi-unit problems. An agency, the Huron River Watershed
Intergovernmental Committee (HRWIC), was formed in April 1958. Four counties, eight cities/villages,
and twenty townships joined.
At the same time, the technical advisory committee of the HRWIC published A Water Use Policy
Development Program that also strongly recommended the formation of an organization to maintain
surveillance of the Huron. Enabling state legislation was needed and UM Professor Lyle Craine and
others worked to get Act 253 of Public Acts of 1964 passed, the Local River Management Act.
In 1965, seventeen governmental units petitioned the Water Resources Commission to establish the
Huron River Watershed Council (HRWC). The petition was granted and in April 1965 the first Watershed
Council in Michigan was formed.
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HRWC FOCUS AREAS
HRWC concentrates on three main areas of concern:
Watershed Science: HRWC runs several scientific programs designed to gauge the health of the
land and water throughout the watershed.
Watershed
Management:
This is the area where
watershed
science meets watershed policy. HRWC engages in a number of projects to utilize data on the
health of the watershed and its component parts to focus on key stressors and develop and then
implement management plans to address problems.
Education and Stewardship: HRWC works to inspire change in attitudes and actions of the
residents of the Huron River Watershed. We desire to show residents that their actions can
make a difference for the watershed, both positively and negatively.
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VOLUNTEERS – THE HEART OF OUR MISSION
We need volunteers to help to find
creatures living in a river; measure the
speed of stream flow; join a team in listing
the variety of plants in beautiful natural
areas and more. No training required for
some activities; for more complex tasks,
training is offered. Broadly we require volunteers in the following areas:
Monitoring Activities:
o Stream Insects:
o River Roundup: Volunteer teams find insects and other creatures each Fall and Spring.
o ID Day: River scientists help volunteers ID the creatures found in the River Roundup.
o Stonefly Search: In January, volunteer teams find stoneflies in high quality streams.
o Stream Habitat: Measuring and Mapping: In August, volunteer teams map and measure
stream habitat.
o Leader/Collector Training: HRWC trains volunteers to lead the teams in the Roundup.
Clean Up and Maintenance:
o Huron River Clean up: Spring and summer. Pick up trash in and around the Huron River.
o Adopt-a-Storm Drain: Keep storm drains near your home clear of leaves and debris.
Natural Areas and Plants (Bio-service Program):
o Field Assessments: Spring and summer. Join volunteer teams to perform field
assessments on the bio-reserve sites.
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o Plant ID experts needed: Spring and summer. If you are experienced in plant
identification, we especially need your help on the field assessments.
Hydrology and Water Quality:
o Water Quality Sampling: Collect water samples from stream sites twice per month, April
through September.
o Flow Measurement: Periodically measure stream flow at stream sites, April through
September.
o Storm Runoff Sampling: Help set up and collect water samples before and after storms,
April through September.
SUDS on the RIVER:
Held annually in September, and featuring the micro-brews of the watershed and several
favorite local restaurants, HRWC always seeks help making this annual fundraiser happen.
Help in the office:
HRWC occasionally needs help with light clerical work and program management.
Benefits to HRWC Volunteers
Investing in volunteer movements at HRWC benefits not only the organization but also your personal
and professional renewal. One of the greatest rewards to volunteering can be the satisfaction of doing
the work itself and getting involved with the community.
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There are other benefits to volunteering such as:
• Exploring new interests
• Networking opportunities
• Contribution to a cause
• Sense of purpose
• Making new friends
• Developing new skills
• Recognition
• Professional growth
• Personal satisfaction
• The most important thing - FUN!
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HRWC holds several events every year that bring our volunteers, members, and interested community
folk together in order to learn more about our organization and what they can do to help the Huron
River.
Some might also get invitation to participate in activities at times to get involved in new communities
and become ready to participate in other organizations.
GETTING IN TOUCH WITH US
If you wish to join our wonderful team of HRWC Staff and other volunteers, please feel free to reach our
staff via email or phone. We can be reached at (734) 769-5123. For more information on our staff, their
email addresses and their telephone extension, please visit the following link:
http://www.hrwc.org/about/staff-of-hrwc/
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RECRUITMENT
HRWC uses various ways to get in touch with enthusiastic community members. Our method of
recruitment is a combination of traditional and latest methods. Some of these methods include reaching
out community members through social media, online, word of mouth through other volunteers etc. We
believe that every volunteer takes away a valuable work experience working with us. Therefore, we
encourage community members to work with us and help us get the word out.
FIRST TIME VOLUNTEERS
1. First time volunteers must register at the following link:
http://www.hrwc.org/registration-for-first-time-volunteers/
2. They must sign consent form and hand they may email it to the volunteer coordinator.
http://www.hrwc.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/waiver.pdf
VOLUNTEER POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
Record Management
All information pertaining to volunteers is stored in a safe and secure way at our office. Records include
dates of volunteer service, positions held, duties performed, evaluation of volunteer performance,
training attended and awards/recognitions received. Volunteer records, including application, reference
checks and background checks when appropriate, are confidential. Volunteers are responsible for
submitting and updating information contained in their files to the Volunteer Management Office.
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Dress Code
All volunteers are requested to dress comfortably for all outdoor tasks. Volunteers who work in the
office are requested to wear business casual.
For more information about dress code, please discuss with your supervisor or the volunteer
coordinator.
Attendance and Time
Volunteer attendance is important to the operation and success of each program. Volunteers should
notify their supervisor in advance if they are unable to be present on their scheduled day or
presentation. HRWC understands the time constraints of our volunteers and when possible will work
with volunteers to schedule tasks in way that fits with our volunteers’ schedule. Please feel free to reach
out to your supervisor or volunteer coordinator in order to discuss your schedule.
Project Placements
Upon completion of a project, HRWC encourages volunteers to work on various other projects during
their volunteer service. If a volunteer elects to be re-assigned, the volunteer must apply or register for
the volunteer position and receive all appropriate training. Please feel free to reach out to your
supervisor or volunteer coordinator in order to discuss various opportunities that HRWC has to offer.
Service Requirement
Each project at HRWC has a specific time commitment. By volunteering for the specific project you are
agreeing to dedicate the time required for the project. You may work with your supervisor or the
volunteer coordinator in order to clearly understand what is required of you in terms of service
requirement.
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Altering the Requirements of the Job Description
Volunteers may request to alter their current job description with the approval of their supervisor. This
change will not alter or extend beyond the previously agreed ending date of service.
Training
Potential volunteers who will be interning, leading projects or working on advanced projects are
interviewed by the volunteer coordinator.
Volunteers receive training for specialized activities as part of their volunteer service with HRWC. All
volunteers must complete an orientation, on-the-job or program training and specialized training for
leadership position or any other position in which there is a level of technical skill and ability.
Volunteer Orientation provides an overview of HRWC, its mission, history and goals. Each volunteer will
receive orientation as a part of the interview process with the volunteer coordinator and the supervisor.
The orientation is designed to provide a framework for volunteering. Volunteer Assignment or Program
Training is provided by the supervisor or trainer for a particular placement. The training details the skills
and knowledge necessary to perform their volunteer assignment.
We encourage our volunteers to learn about watershed science to get actively involved with the
community. Volunteers can read more about watershed science at the following location:
http://www.hrwc.org/our-work
Youth Volunteer and/or Service Learning
Volunteers, under 18 years, must have written consent of a parent or guardian before volunteering.
Students volunteering for service learning credit hours for their school must submit school name and
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contact information before volunteering. We require of our volunteers to fill out the liability form before
joining our team.
http://www.hrwc.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/waiver.pdf
Evaluation
All advance volunteer positions receive periodic evaluations to review their performance. Typically these
are done at the end of the season of a specific project. The evaluations allow for a volunteer and
supervisor to suggest changes, seek improvements and enhance the relationship between the
volunteer, staff and HRWC. The evaluation is an open discussion forum, and both supervisor and
volunteer should establish an open line of communication.
Recognition
Volunteers are the heart of our mission and we are honored to have so many volunteers care so
passionately about the community. There are recognition events for volunteers to highlight the
contributions of volunteers to the organization. Continuing recognition of volunteers is vital and will
occur throughout the year.
There is an annual volunteer appreciation event in which the data from the project is presented which is
followed by a recognition event. This particular event takes place in Winter. There is also an annual
awards section at the annual meeting in the spring.
Stay tuned by following our social media and also our events page as below:
http://www.hrwc.org/events/
Please contact the volunteer coordinator for more information on HRWC events.
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Conduct
Volunteers are expected to follow rules of conduct that will protect the interest and safety of all
volunteer, staff, and HRWC’s Mission. The following are only some examples of expected conduct:
o We encourage volunteers to seek permission from the concerned authority when dealing with
removal or possession of HRWC’s property or that of any HRWC volunteers, staff, agent or
visitor, including failing to cooperate fully in any HRWC investigation.
o We encourage volunteers to seek permission when working with records so as to maintain
integrity of such documents.
o HRWC is proud to be a smoke-free and drug-free workplace.
o For the safety at workplace, we require that volunteers are not under the influence of alcohol.
o We encourage volunteers to maintain a peaceful, professional behavior on HRWC premises and
at sponsored activities.
o We expect our volunteers to abide by the HRWC, federal, state, and local safety and health
codes.
o We encourage volunteers to seek permission to use HRWC’s telephones, computer equipment
and systems, mail, e-mail, facsimile machines, or other HRWC-owned equipment.
o We ask our volunteers not to disclose HRWC proprietary or confidential information.
o We seek volunteers who are cooperative and respectful towards our staff, other volunteers and
the community. We expect high standards or conduct, high levels of enthusiasm, and quality
work of our volunteers.
Safety and Liability
HRWC aims to provide a safe and healthy environment for all volunteers and staff. If a volunteer is
injured in the course of the volunteer’s service, it is important that the volunteer notify their supervisor
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immediately. Volunteers should also complete an incident report and submit the report to the
volunteer’s supervisor. If you witness any unsafe situations, or understand ways for us to improve,
please contact the volunteer coordinator.
Contact the Volunteer Coordinator with questions or for more information about safety and liability.
Our first time volunteers are required to fill out the liability form which can be found in the following
location:
http://www.hrwc.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/waiver.pdf
Public Relations
As a Volunteer, you are associated with HRWC from the perspective of the public. In all your dealings
with the public, present yourself in a manner that creates a positive image of you, the program and the
organization.
THANK YOU!
We sincerely thank you for your interest in volunteering with HRWC. We look forward to working with
you to better serve our community. We hope you find this document useful in finding pertinent
information about what we do and what we hope to achieve with passionate volunteers such as
yourself. Please direct your questions, concerns and feedback to the volunteer coordinator who will
address them as soon as possible. Once again, thank you for your time and we look forward to giving
you a fulfilling volunteering experience at HRWC.
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