Creative Powr Volunteer Handbook V2.1 - 20241104
Table of Contents
Introduction
Welcome Letter
Charity Overview (Mission, Vision, Values)
Importance of VolunteersVolunteer Policies and Code of Conduct
Conduct Expectations
Confidentiality and Data Protection
Dress Code and Professionalism
Roles and Responsibilities
Volunteer Role Descriptions
Expectations and Goals
Procedures and Guidelines
Daily Operations
Communication Channels
Health and Safety Protocols
Training and Development
Orientation Process
Ongoing Training Opportunities
Performance Feedback
Administrative Procedures
Timesheets and Scheduling
Reimbursements and Expenses
Leaving or Transitioning
Legal Compliance
GDPR and Data Handling
Working with Vulnerable Groups
Emergency and Safety Information
Emergency Contacts
Incident Reporting Procedures
Acknowledgment Page
1. Introduction
Welcome Letter
Dear Volunteer,
Welcome to Creative Powr! We are genuinely thrilled to have you join us. Your decision to volunteer your time, energy, and expertise means the world to us—and to the many charities that benefit from your efforts. You are joining a vibrant community of compassionate, talented individuals who are united by a common goal: to use technology and innovation to make a real difference in the world.
At Creative Powr, we believe that technology and compassion together can solve some of society’s most pressing challenges. As a volunteer, you are at the core of our mission—bringing innovative AI solutions and digital services to charities that need them the most. Your unique skills and dedication help these organisations thrive, and we couldn’t do it without you.
Throughout your journey with us, you’ll have opportunities to grow, learn, and connect with like-minded people who share your passion for giving back. Whether you’re helping a charity develop their digital presence, supporting crucial IT projects, or contributing in other impactful ways, know that your work is essential, valued, and celebrated.
We hope your experience here is as rewarding for you as it is transformative for the communities you help. Our team is here to support you every step of the way—never hesitate to reach out if you need guidance or just a friendly chat. Together, we’re creating something truly special.
Once again, thank you for being here. Let’s unite technology and compassion for a better world!
Warmest regards,
The Creative Powr Team
Charity Overview (Mission, Vision, Values)
Our mission at Creative Powr is dedicated to enhancing the effectiveness of charities worldwide. We provide innovative AI solutions and comprehensive digital services, cultivate strategic collaborations, and build essential digital competencies to drive meaningful and lasting change. Our vision is championing innovative solutions for charities, creating a world where technology and compassion unite to solve society’s most pressing challenges. Our values—collaboration, innovation, inclusivity, and respect—are what drive us each day, and we invite you to embrace these values as a member of our team.
Importance of Volunteers
Volunteers are the backbone of Creative Powr. Your contributions help us deliver meaningful projects to charities in need, and your unique skills and energy are what allow us to achieve our mission. We recognise and appreciate your efforts through regular acknowledgment, including thank-you letters, certificates of appreciation, volunteer spotlights in our community updates, and special recognition events.
We hope that through volunteering with us, you will grow personally and professionally while having a positive impact on the communities we serve.
2. Volunteer Policies and Code of Conduct
Conduct Expectations
We expect all volunteers to conduct themselves in a manner that reflects the values of Creative Powr. This means treating others with respect, communicating effectively, and contributing positively to the community. Please be mindful that your actions represent Creative Powr both inside and outside of our projects.
Confidentiality and Data Protection
Volunteers may have access to sensitive information during their service. It is important that you maintain the confidentiality of any personal or organisational data, in accordance with our data protection policies and the UK GDPR.
Dress Code and Professionalism
As a fully remote charity, we do not have a formal dress code. However, we encourage all volunteers to dress appropriately for virtual meetings, considering the professional nature of our work.
3. Roles and Responsibilities
Volunteer Role Descriptions
Volunteers at Creative Powr can take on a variety of roles, from IT project support to outreach and community engagement. Each role is designed to match your skills and interests with the needs of our partner charities.
Expectations and Goals
We will provide you with specific goals and expectations related to your role. Our aim is to help you succeed and make the most out of your experience while contributing to the success of our projects.
4. Procedures and Guidelines
Daily Operations
Our daily operations are focused on collaboration, communication, and efficiency. We use a range of digital tools to stay connected and organised, including Slack for chat-style communication, Google Workspace for document collaboration, and Google Meet for virtual meetings. We encourage all volunteers to stay engaged through these platforms.
If you have any questions or need support, don’t hesitate to reach out to your supervisor or the community support team.
Health and Safety Protocols
Although we operate remotely, your health and well-being are a priority for us. Please take care of your physical and mental health while volunteering. We recommend maintaining a good ergonomic setup, taking regular breaks, and avoiding prolonged screen time. Let us know if there are ways we can support you better.
5. Training and Development
Orientation Process
All new volunteers will receive an orientation to help them understand Creative Powr’s mission, policies, and volunteer roles. This orientation is designed to give you the knowledge and tools you need to get started confidently.
Ongoing Training Opportunities
We believe in continuous learning and development. Throughout your time with us, you will have access to various training opportunities to enhance your skills and knowledge in areas relevant to your volunteer role.
Performance Feedback
Your growth is important to us. We provide regular feedback to help you understand your strengths and areas for improvement. Feel free to ask for feedback at any time, and let us know how we can support your development.
6. Administrative Procedures
Timesheets and Scheduling
We ask volunteers to keep track of their hours and activities using our online timesheet system. This helps us measure our impact and recognise your contributions accurately.
Reimbursements and Expenses
Creative Powr operates as a fully remote charity and does not cover expenses. We appreciate your understanding and commitment despite this limitation.
Leaving or Transitioning
If you decide to take a break or conclude your time as a volunteer, please notify us in advance. We would love to hear about your experiences and any suggestions you may have for improving our volunteer programme.
7. Legal Compliance
GDPR and Data Handling
We take data privacy seriously. All volunteers must adhere to our data handling policies, ensuring that personal data is processed in line with UK GDPR requirements.
Working with Vulnerable Groups
Some volunteer roles may involve working with vulnerable populations. We provide specific guidelines and training for these roles to ensure that all interactions are safe and respectful.
8. Emergency and Safety Information
Emergency Contacts
If you encounter an emergency while volunteering, please contact the designated support person listed in your orientation materials. For different types of emergencies, follow these guidelines:
Health Issues: Contact your healthcare provider and inform your supervisor.
Technical Problems: Notify your supervisor or the community support team for assistance.
Incidents Involving Beneficiaries: Report the incident immediately to your supervisor, following the procedures outlined during your orientation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do I log my volunteer hours?
You can log your volunteer hours through our Google Calendar by using specific codes when booking time for work done. These hours (or codes) are then accumulated across all volunteers in our weekly, monthly, quarterly, and annual reporting to track time spent and the areas of the charity that benefit most.Whom should I contact if I have a problem?
For any issues or concerns, reach out to your supervisor or the community support team via email or Slack.What should I do if I can’t attend a scheduled meeting?
Please notify your supervisor as soon as possible if you are unable to attend a scheduled meeting.
If you encounter an emergency while volunteering, please contact the designated support person listed in your orientation materials. For different types of emergencies, follow these guidelines:
Health Issues: Contact your healthcare provider and inform your supervisor.
Technical Problems: Notify your supervisor or the community support team for assistance.
Incidents Involving Beneficiaries: Report the incident immediately to your supervisor, following the procedures outlined during your orientation.
We are here to help you navigate any challenges you may face.
Incident Reporting Procedures
All incidents, including health and safety concerns, should be reported immediately to your supervisor. We take all reports seriously and will work with you to address any issues promptly.
9. Acknowledgement Page
Confirmation of Understanding and Agreement
By signing below, you acknowledge that you have read and understood the Creative Powr Volunteer Handbook and agree to abide by its policies and procedures.
Signature: _______________________________________
Date: ___________________________________________
Signature: _______________________________________
Date: ___________________________________________