Introduction Friends of the Dillon Ranger District (FDRD) and its network of partners work to protect and enhance the White River National Forest-Dillon Ranger District by encouraging our community to practice stewardship through responsible recreation, volunteer opportunities, and educational programs. We align our work with the United States Forest Service (USFS), meaning our volunteers not only represent FDRD but the USFS as well. The following guidelines ensure that all FDRD volunteers and staff have a safe and positive volunteer experience with FDRD. This agreement is intended to help guide our actions and foster a shared commitment to the National Forest and our community. This applies to all those who volunteer on behalf of FDRD and is based on the following values: a. Safety: We prioritize safety in all activities and is our shared responsibility b. Inclusive Community: We are committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment where everyone—regardless of background, ability, or experience—feels welcome and valued. c. Respect: We treat each other with kindness and understanding, creating a respectful and supportive environment for volunteers, partners, staff, and the public. We respect the public lands we serve, as well as the wildlife and ecosystems that depend on them. Conduct Expectations a. Prioritize safety for yourself and others during volunteer activities. Follow all safety guidelines provided by FDRD and our programs’ United States Forest Service (USFS) Risk Assessment. Report any hazards or unsafe work conditions. b. Follow all rules and regulations of the public lands we work on, including trail guidelines, wildlife closures, etc.. Practice Leave No Trace (LNT) principles during all volunteer activities to protect the environment and ensure the sustainability of natural spaces. c. Be on time, reliable, and committed to your volunteer role. Represent FDRD with integrity, honesty, and professionalism. Avoid any actions that could harm FDRD's reputation or mission and keep personal opinions/beliefs to yourself while representing the organization. d. Treat fellow volunteers, FDRD staff, partners and community members with respect and courtesy e. FDRD is committed to creating an inclusive environment where all volunteers feel safe and valued. We expect all volunteers to: - Actively promote a welcoming space that celebrates diversity and inclusion.
- Avoid any behavior that discriminates or excludes based on race, gender, ability, age, sexual orientation, or background.
f. Handle all FDRD property, materials, and supplies with care and respect. This includes tools, equipment, educational materials, and any other resources provided during volunteer activities. g. Volunteers are expected to recognize and respect that FDRD staff have the authority in all decisions related to volunteer activities, safety protocols, and organizational policies. If a volunteer has questions or concerns about a decision made by staff, they are encouraged to address these constructively and respectfully through appropriate channels after the project/program has concluded. h. Volunteers who are assigned to handle money or assist with retail sales must do so with integrity, accuracy, and professionalism. - All transactions should be conducted following FDRD procedures, and any discrepancies must be reported to FDRD staff immediately.
- Volunteers are not permitted to use FDRD funds, cash, or retail inventory for personal purposes under any circumstances.
- Retail inventory and cash must be secured and accounted for at all times, and volunteers should consult FDRD staff if they have questions or encounter issues.
i. Volunteers are expected to accept feedback gracefully from partners, FDRD staff, and USFS staff, understanding that constructive input helps improve the volunteer experience and effectiveness of the program. j. Volunteers must not use, possess, or be under the influence of drugs or alcohol during any FDRD-sponsored projects and programs. k. Protect and maintain the confidentiality of any sensitive information obtained through volunteering. This includes, but is not limited to, personal information about community members, volunteers, and staff. l. Wear a clean and designated FDRD uniform or appropriate attire during all volunteer activities. This helps identify volunteers as representatives of FDRD and promotes professionalism. - Uniforms should be kept clean and in good condition throughout the program.
- Upon completion of the volunteer program, or if no longer participating in volunteer activities, volunteers are required to return their uniform and any other FDRD-issued gear or materials in good condition.
m. Volunteers must report any injuries to themselves or volunteers under their supervision to FDRD staff within 24 hours and to U.S. Forest Service (USFS) staff within 72 hours. - Timely reporting is essential to ensure eligibility for coverage under the USFS volunteer workman’s compensation program.
n. Volunteers must not solicit or accept tips, gratuities, or any form of compensation from tour guests or members of the public. - If a guest wishes to contribute to FDRD, volunteers should direct them to visit fdrd.org or provide a QR code business card to facilitate donations.
3. Misconduct Actions in violation of the conduct’s expectations. The following are examples of misconduct but not an exhaustive list. - Physical and/or sexual assault, including violence and threats of violence towards others
- Harassment, bullying, or discriminatory actions toward fellow volunteers, staff, or community members
- Disregard for personal or group safety
- Disregard for LNT and USFS rules/regulations
- Failure to represent FDRD and USFS in respectful manner
Reporting misconduct - A volunteer who observes or is subjected to any of the above misconduct by a FDRD employee or volunteer, should report it as soon as possible to an FDRD manager or FDRD Executive Director. If staff have confirmed the individual or group has violated the policies, FDRD will take corrective action. FDRD volunteer opportunities are not guaranteed. Any volunteer may be disqualified from an opportunity at any time for misconduct, as outlined above.
By adhering to this Volunteer Agreement, we demonstrate our commitment to creating a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment that enables us to work together effectively in support of FDRD’s mission to protect and maintain our public lands. This agreement is effective for the duration of the volunteer’s participation in any Friends of the Dillon Ranger District (FDRD) activities. By signing this document, volunteers agree to uphold the expectations and standards outlined in this agreement throughout their involvement with FDRD. |