YMCA of Greater Toronto workshop D6 at the 20th IAVE World Volunteer Conference, Panama 2008

Workshop: Building a Strong Volunteer Programme: Core Values and Programme Components

Presenter: Wendy Stratton, Manager, Volunteer Development, YMCA of Greater Toronto

Citizenship and Philanthropy 

• The importance of a personal, coherent philosophy of volunteerism for the person responsible for working with others in developing volunteer programs
• Create a social climate through which human needs can be met and human values enhanced

Respect 

• Involve people in decisions that directly affect them
• Promote understanding and the actualization of mutual benefits inherent in any act of volunteer service
• The development of volunteer programs and initiatives that respect and enhance the human dignity of all persons involved
• Respect the privacy of individuals and safeguard information received as confidential

Inclusiveness 

• Understand and respect individuals from diverse backgrounds

Responsibility 

• Develop a volunteer program that will enhance and extend the work of the organization’s mission, vision and values
• Commit to reflective decision-making with the intent of advancing the long term greater good.

Caring 

• Be kind, compassionate and generous in all actions so as to minimize the harm done to others in the performance of one’s duties

Justice and Fairness 

• Have an open and impartial process for collecting and evaluating information critical for making decisions
• Have impartial and objective standards that avoid discriminatory or prejudicial behaviours
• Treat all individuals equitably.

Honesty and Integrity 

• Commit to the truth and ensure that all interactions with volunteers and other paid staff are founded on the premise of open and honest interaction.
• Treat all volunteers with sincerity, never operate in a deceptive manner, and continually promote that principle throughout the organization
• Commit to fairness and forthrightness
• Assure clear communication regarding commitments on behalf of the organization, staff, or volunteers
• Understand the importance of confidentiality and work to protect confidential information
• Understand what a conflict of interest is and know how to address it properly