What is Orientation? 

Volunteer Orientation is the process of volunteer onboarding or training new volunteers to be confident and knowledgeable volunteers. 

Building a Foundation 

Risk Management 

Risk Management is a systematic process of identifying, accessing, and prioritizing risks, followed by coordinated resources to minimize the risk. In our programs, the primary types of risks we are concerned with are those to participants either physically or emotionally. 

Why do we need to manage risk? 

If we manage the risk, we increase the participants' safety and knowledge of those risks. We cannot eliminate risk, nor do we want to. Taking risks is part of what makes our programs fun and educational. But we do want to manage risks to reduce the chances of any serious injury or harm. Furthermore, if we do manage those risks, we can also reduce the risk of liability to our volunteers and organization. Our role as volunteer managers is to train and evaluate our volunteers on their risk management skills.  One way we do this is through policies and procedures. 

Volunteer Code of Conduct & Agreement 

Policies and Procedures vary between each of the land grant universities. Although there are differences, the topics are similar and essential for volunteers to understand. 

The bottom line is each volunteer should be aware of and have access to the policies and procedures they need to reduce the risk while they are volunteering. 

Each orientation "house" may be built in a different location, but the foundation must always be strong and reliable—whether it’s made of concrete and rebar or blocks and cement. Orientation is one of the most essential components for volunteers, providing the stability needed to protect all.