Protecting Your Non-Profit: A Guide to Volunteer Liability

As a non-profit organization, you rely on the dedication and hard work of volunteers to achieve your mission. However, with this reliance comes a certain level of risk. In this guide, we'll explore the concept of volunteer liability and provide you with the tools you need to protect your non-profit and its volunteers.

What is Volunteer Liability?

Volunteer liability refers to the potential legal liability that a non-profit organization may face as a result of the actions or omissions of its volunteers. This can include situations where a volunteer causes harm to someone or damages property, or where a volunteer fails to perform their duties in a way that causes harm to the organization or its reputation.

Why is Volunteer Liability Important?

Volunteer liability is important because it can have a significant impact on your non-profit's reputation, finances, and ability to operate. If a volunteer causes harm or damages property, your organization may be held liable and forced to pay damages. This can be a significant financial burden, especially for smaller non-profits.

How Can You Protect Your Non-Profit from Volunteer Liability?

There are several steps you can take to protect your non-profit from volunteer liability:

• Screening and Selection: Conduct thorough background checks and interviews to ensure that you are selecting volunteers who are suitable for the role and who have the necessary skills and experience.

• Training and Orientation: Provide volunteers with comprehensive training and orientation to ensure that they understand their roles and responsibilities, as well as the organization's policies and procedures.

• Supervision and Oversight: Ensure that volunteers are supervised and monitored to prevent them from engaging in activities that may cause harm or damage property.

• Insurance: Consider purchasing liability insurance to protect your non-profit and its volunteers in the event of an accident or injury.

• Policies and Procedures: Develop and implement clear policies and procedures for volunteers to follow, including guidelines for behavior, communication, and reporting.

• Communication: Ensure that volunteers understand their roles and responsibilities, as well as the organization's expectations and policies.

• Reporting and Documentation: Maintain accurate and detailed records of volunteer activities, including any incidents or accidents that may occur.

In conclusion, volunteer liability is an important consideration for non-profit organizations. By taking steps to screen, train, and supervise volunteers, and by implementing clear policies and procedures, you can protect your non-profit and its volunteers from potential liability.