Guidelines for 'Big Sisters'

1. All Volunteer jobs are important! Choose those that you are comfortable with and will enjoy.
2. CONFIDENTIALITY - Please keep personal information shared by a resident or staff to yourself. Only exception: If information shared by a resident is potentially harmful to her or anyone else then by all means tell a staff member.
3. CARE but BE AWARE - the population of young women that we serve have a variety of issues to deal with; many have survived by their wits. Honesty and truthfulness are not always their strong suits. Don't necessarily believe everything that you hear, and protect your personal property.
4. HOUSE RULES must always be supported. This is important for consistency. If you have a question concerning our rules, discuss this privately with staff but not with the residents.
5. Clear all volunteer activities with the Staff Volunteer Coordinator first. This will save disappointment.
6. FOLLOW THROUGH
   
   • Please be here when you say you will; we depend on you.
   • Be careful not to make promises you may not be able to keep, especially to the girls.
   • If you cannot fulfill a commitment, alert the Staff Volunteer Coordinator as early as possible.
7. Volunteer phone numbers and addresses will never be given to residents by staff. If you choose to share this information with residents, you do so at your own discretion.
8. Staff Volunteer Coordinator can be reached during daytime office hours. Please COMMUNICATE. All questions are important and all suggestions are valued.
9. Monthly training and/or discussion groups will be held at the shelter.
10. The residents may not show it or ever say it, but YOU ARE APPRECIATED!!!