2024 Release and Waiver of Liability

PLEASE READ CAREFULLY! THIS IS A LEGAL DOCUMENT THAT AFFECTS YOUR LEGAL RIGHTS!

This Release and Waiver of Liability (the “Release”) is executed on this of [type date above] by [type name above], (the "Volunteer") in favor of Loveland Habitat for Humanity, Habitat for Humanity International, Inc. and any other Habitat for Humanity affiliated organization1, and their respective affiliates, directors, officers, trustees, employees, sponsors, donors, volunteers and agents (collectively, the “Released Parties”).

I, the Volunteer, desire to work as a volunteer for one or more of the Released Parties without compensation and engage in the activities related to being a volunteer. I understand that my activities may include but are not limited to the following: working at Habitat for Humanity offices and worksites; working in or for Habitat for Humanity ReStore operations; loading and unloading materials; traveling to and from work sites, towns, cities or countries; consuming food available or provided; living in housing provided for volunteers; assisting in disaster relief areas; constructing, repairing, and rehabilitating residential buildings; other construction-related activities; and other volunteer activities ("Activities").

I, the Volunteer, understand that my Activities may include work that may be hazardous to me, including, but not limited to, exposure to lead, asbestos and mold, which may cause or worsen certain illnesses, especially if I do not wear protective equipment, am exposed for extended periods of time, or have a pre-existing immune system deficiency.

I also understand there is some inherent risk in consuming local foods and living in local accommodations in the city(ies) or country(ies) visited. I further understand I may be traveling to and from locations where there is a risk of terrorism, war, insurrection, criminal activities, instability, inclement weather or other circumstances that could threaten my health or safety. I also understand that it is the policy of the Released Parties not to pay ransom or make any other payments to secure the release of hostages.

I, the Volunteer, hereby freely, voluntarily and without duress execute this Release under the following terms:

Release and Waiver. I, the Volunteer, acknowledge and understand that participation in the Activities may involve certain risks, including, but not limited to, personal injury(ies), bodily injury, illness, permanent disability, property damage, loss and/or death (“Risks”). These Risks include, but are not limited to, exposure to and/or infection with COVID-19 and/or other viruses and/or bacterial infection even in ideal conditions, and despite any and all reasonable efforts made to mitigate such Risks. I further acknowledge and agree that, due to the nature of the Activities, social distancing of six feet per person will not always be possible and that my participation in the Activities may result in an elevated risk of contracting COVID-19 and/or other viruses and/or bacterial infection.

I, the Volunteer, further confirm that prior to engaging in the Activities, I may be required to complete a COVID-19 health screening questionnaire provided by one or more of the Released Parties. I agree that I will answer all questions on the questionnaire truthfully. I agree to not participate in any Activities if, at such time and to the best of my knowledge, I am a carrier of COVID-19 or infected with COVID-19. I further agree to follow all safety precautions outlined by any Released Party while volunteering.

In consideration of and in order to be allowed to participate in the Activities, I do hereby release and forever discharge and hold harmless the Released Parties and their successors and assigns from any and all liability, claims, demands, costs and damages of any kind, whether arising from tort, contract or otherwise, which I or my heirs, assigns, next of kin or legal representatives may have or which may hereinafter accrue, arise from, or are in any way related to my Activities with any of the Released Parties, including but not limited to Risks, whether caused wholly or in part by the simple negligence, fault or other misconduct of any of the Released Parties or of other volunteers, other than their intentional or grossly negligent conduct. In addition, the Released Parties shall have the benefit of any future liability protection for businesses as relating to the COVID-19 pandemic passed by any governmental entity to which the Released Parties are subject.

I understand and acknowledge that by signing this Release I knowingly assume the Risks associated with the Activities. I also understand that the Released Parties do not assume any responsibility for or obligation to provide financial assistance or other assistance, including but not limited to medical, health or disability insurance in the event of injury, illness, death or property damage. Regarding any illness or virus, including COVID-19, I, the Volunteer, understand that even if I follow all guidelines for the prevention and handling of any illness or virus, including COVID-19, there is still a risk that Volunteer could contract such virus or illness.

I understand and acknowledge that children under the age of 16 are not allowed on Habitat for Humanity worksites while construction is in progress. While minors between the ages of 16 and 18 may be allowed to participate in some types of build site activities, solely as outlined by the Released Parties, I understand that using power tools, excavation, demolition, working on rooftops and similar activities are not permitted for anyone under the age of 18. I agree it is my responsibility to communicate these requirements to any of my minor children who will attend and/or participate in the Activities.

Consent to Transportation and Medical Treatment. I consent to the use of first aid treatment and the use of generic and over-the-counter medications and treatments as directed by manufacturer labels, whether administered by the Released Parties or first aid personnel. In an emergency, I understand the Released Parties may try to contact the individual listed below as an emergency contact. If an emergency contact cannot be reached promptly, I hereby authorize the Released Parties to act as an agent for me to consent to any examination, testing, x-rays, medical, dental or surgical treatment for me as advised by a physician, dentist or other health care provider. This includes, but is not limited to, my assessment, evaluation, medical care and treatment, anesthesia, hospitalization, or other health care treatment or procedure as advised by a physician, dentist or other health care provider. I also authorize the Released Parties to arrange for transportation of me as deemed necessary and appropriate in their discretion. I, the Volunteer, do hereby release, forever discharge and hold harmless the Released Parties from any liability, claim, demand, and action whatsoever brought by me or on my behalf which arises or may hereafter arise on account of any transportation, first aid, assessment, care, treatment, response or service rendered in connection with my Activities with any of the Released Parties.

If the Volunteer is less than 18 years of age, the parent(s) having legal custody and/or the legal guardian(s) of the Volunteer also hereby release, forever discharge and hold harmless the Released Parties from any liability, claim, demand and action whatsoever brought by such volunteer or on his/her behalf which arises or may hereafter arise on account of the decision by any representative or agent of the Released Parties to exercise the power to transport, administer first aid, and consent to assessment, examination, x-rays, medical, dental, surgical or other such health care treatment as set forth in the Parental Authorization for Treatment of, and Travel With, a Minor Child.

Insurance. I understand that, except as otherwise agreed to by the Released Parties in writing, the Released Parties are under no obligation to provide, carry or maintain health, medical, travel, disability or other insurance coverage for any Volunteer. Each Volunteer is expected and encouraged to obtain his or her own health, medical, travel, disability or other insurance coverage.

I understand that I am and remain responsible for payment of such hospital, physician, ambulance, dental, medical or other services obtained for me or my child. I agree that the Released Parties do not assume any responsibility for the payment of such fees or expenses which may be incurred. If I have health insurance, I understand my personal health insurance is my primary coverage.

Confidentiality. I agree that in the course of my participation in the Activities, I may have access to personal and/or health care information of other persons. I agree to maintain the confidentiality of such information, to use such information only as necessary to do my job as a volunteer, and to comply with Habitat for applicable policies regarding such information.

Photographic/Recording Release. I hereby grant and convey unto the Released Parties all right, title and interest in any and all photographs and video/audio/electronic recordings of me, including as to my name, image and voice, made by or on behalf of any of the Released Parties during my Activities with the Released Parties, including, but not limited to, the right to use such materials for any purpose and to any royalties, proceeds or other benefits derived from them. I understand that I will not have any ownership interest in or to such photographs, images and/or recordings, I have not been provided or promised any compensation to me, and I hereby waive any rights, privileges or claims based on any right of publicity, privacy, ownership or any other rights arising, relating to or resulting from the photographs, images and/or recordings. I understand and agree that this paragraph also applies to my minor child(ren) who are volunteering.

Other. I expressly agree that this Release is intended to be as broad and inclusive as permitted by state law. I further agree that in the event any clause or provision of this Release is held invalid by any court of competent jurisdiction, the invalidity of such clause or provision shall not otherwise affect the remaining clauses or provisions of this Release, which shall continue to be enforceable. Further, a waiver of a right under this Release by a Released Party does not prevent the exercise of any other right.

Safeguarding. LHFH is committed to the highest ethical standards and oppose all forms of exploitation and abuse. LHFH creates and maintains a work environment that is safe, productive and respectful for colleagues and must prevent and respond to harm caused by physical or sexual abuse or exploitation, harassment, or bullying of the people in the communities we serve (especially vulnerable adults and children). Habitat for Humanity is opposed to any form of discrimination, exploitation and abuse, including slavery, coerced conscription, prostitution, trafficking of people for any purpose, vulnerable adult or child abuse, and dangerous or exploitative child labor. In the design and implementation of programs and policies, we seek always to work without bias, to do no harm, and to eliminate (rather than contribute to) the harm of discrimination, exploitation and abuse.

I understand that Habitat for Humanity screens all potential staff (whether paid or unpaid), board members, and applicant families on the sex offender registry and performs criminal background checks on key volunteers. By signing this waiver, I am submitting to such inquiry. 

I have carefully considered my decision, the benefits and risks involved, and hereby give my informed consent to participate in all volunteer Activities. I have read and understand this Release and Waiver of Liability, I acknowledge that any questions of mine have been answered, and I voluntarily agree to the above provisions. It is my intent to bind my heirs, next of kin, assigns and legal representative.

FOR VOLUNTEERS UNDER THE AGE OF 18:

IMPORTANT: If the Volunteer is less than 18 years of age, all parents or guardians must initial the below. If only one parent or guardian signs these forms on behalf of a Volunteer who is under 18 years of age, then the undersigned parent or guardian of the Volunteer hereby covenants, warrants, represents and agrees that he or she is executing these forms on behalf of, and as an agent for, any other individual who may be a parent or guardian of the Volunteer, that he/she is fully authorized to do so, and that by executing such Release and Parental Authorization, the undersigned is binding himself/herself, the Volunteer, and any other parent or guardian of the Volunteer, and all of their heirs, next of kin, assigns, and legal representatives to such Release and Parental Authorization.

I have carefully considered my decision, the benefits and risks involved and hereby give my informed consent, on behalf of the above listed minor child, for him/her to participate in all Activities as set forth in the above Volunteer Agreement, Release and Waiver of Liability, and such terms are incorporated herein. I have read and understand the above Volunteer Agreement, Release and Waiver of Liability, any questions of mine have been answered, and I voluntarily agree to all such provisions. It is my intent to bind my and the minor Volunteer's heirs, next of kin, assigns, and legal representatives. Furthermore, I understand that the above Volunteer Agreement, Release and Waiver of Liability is made on behalf of my minor child(ren) and/or legal wards and I represent and warrant to Habitat for Humanity International, Inc. or its affiliated organizations that I have the full authority to sign this on behalf of such minor(s).

1 Each Habitat for Humanity affiliate is an independently owned and operated non-profit corporation. Habitat for Humanity International, Inc. does not own, operate, or control the activities of Habitat for Humanity affiliated organizations.

Revised 1/1/24

Habitat for Humanity Volunteer Code of Conduct

Becoming a Habitat volunteer comes with great rewards and responsibilities. Volunteers like you are representatives of Habitat for Humanity and its ministry. When you accept a volunteer role with Habitat for Humanity, you are committing to act in a way that promotes Habitat’s mission, respects the local community, and ensures the safety of all participants. In addition to complying with all laws, regulations and Habitat for Humanity policies, all volunteers are expected to follow the volunteer code of conduct outlined below.

1. Promote a respectful community: Treat all volunteers, employees and community members with respect, courtesy, and dignity. This includes avoiding the use of humiliating, demeaning, offensive, degrading or otherwise insensitive language that fails to respect the dignity of the person. Volunteers are also expected to refrain from engaging in intimidation, discrimination, physical, sexual, and/or emotional violence toward others. Volunteers will not engage in any abuse of authority, position or influence by withholding/restricting access to support/support services, manipulating selection or targeting processes for those we intend to serve. Promote a welcoming, respectful environment by making efforts to understand and honor the local culture and by following all rules and policies set forth by a Habitat program staff member or supervising volunteer. Use of social media should be governed by the principles of respecting and protecting vulnerable populations while preserving their dignity and privacy. You are discouraged from posting anything on social media that permits beneficiaries being identified and/or traced.

2. Respect the human rights of all people and protect beneficiaries and community members from exploitation and abuse. All Habitat volunteers must model behavior consistent with the Habitat for Humanity International Safeguarding Policy which protects staff, beneficiaries, and community members (especially vulnerable adults and children) from exploitation and abuse. Inappropriate physical or sexual relationships with other volunteers is prohibited. Under no circumstances, may volunteers engage in sexual activity with a child (a person under the age of 18, regardless of the legal age of consent and local laws), any Habitat staff or beneficiaries, or any community members. This includes not procuring commercial sex acts, even where such activities are permitted by local laws.

3. Prioritize site safety: Safety rules and guidelines on the volunteer site have been created to keep you and others safe as you volunteer and must be followed. Activities that pose a safety risk to yourself or others should be avoided. Report any unsafe working conditions to the onsite supervisor.

4. Uphold a zero-tolerance policy for alcohol, drugs and weapons: The purchase or possession of drugs or weapons is strictly prohibited on Habitat for Humanity property and volunteer sites. The purchase or possession of alcohol is also strictly prohibited on Habitat for Humanity volunteer sites, even if permitted by local laws or by the laws of the volunteer’s home country.

5. Follow the gift giving policy: To avoid potential misunderstandings, embarrassment, injured feelings or jealousy, volunteers are asked not to exchange gifts with Habitat beneficiaries, staff members or community members without consulting Habitat staff. Volunteers may speak with a staff member about appropriate ways to exchange gifts and our staff is happy to suggest gifts that will benefit the entire community.

6. Protect ministry assets: Use reasonable care to protect all Habitat for Humanity resources. Stealing, misappropriation or diversion of Habitat for Humanity funds, property, or other assets for personal benefit is not permitted, nor is otherwise engaging in fraudulent activity regarding Habitat for Humanity’s assets, operations, or beneficiaries.

7. Maintain confidentiality: Build trust with other volunteers and Habitat for Humanity by respecting the confidentiality of volunteers, staff, Habitat beneficiaries, and community members. Unless you receive prior written approval from HFHI, you will not disclose confidential HFHI information or confidential information given to you by others.

8. Speak up!: Habitat for Humanity embraces a “see something, say something” culture. If you become aware of potential misconduct, help reinforce our culture of courage and accountability by sharing your concerns with an appropriate Habitat staff or supervising volunteer. You can also anonymously report potential misconduct by reporting a claim to the confidential Habitat Ethics and Accountability Line..

May 2022
 

I acknowledge that I have read, understand and agree to be guided by this volunteer code of conduct.

I commit to helping safeguard the rights and dignities of all people I encounter during my volunteer service with Habitat.

I understand that I have a responsibility to report any potential misconduct to an appropriate Habitat staff or through the Habitat Ethics and Accountability Line.

I understand that HFHI has the right to release me from my volunteer position at its discretion. I also understand that I am responsible for any costs that I may incur due to a violation of the code of conduct.