1 / 19

Addressing Volunteer Behavior

Addressing Volunteer Behavior. Youth Emphasis Wisline January 6, 2005 Melanie Miller and Sue Pleskac. It’s a PRIVILEGE to volunteer - not a right. Discipline and Dismissal. Discipline and Dismissal of Volunteers are no longer optional.

akira
Download Presentation

Addressing Volunteer Behavior

An Image/Link below is provided (as is) to download presentation Download Policy: Content on the Website is provided to you AS IS for your information and personal use and may not be sold / licensed / shared on other websites without getting consent from its author. Content is provided to you AS IS for your information and personal use only. Download presentation by click this link. While downloading, if for some reason you are not able to download a presentation, the publisher may have deleted the file from their server. During download, if you can't get a presentation, the file might be deleted by the publisher.

E N D

Presentation Transcript

  1. Addressing Volunteer Behavior Youth Emphasis Wisline January 6, 2005 Melanie Miller and Sue Pleskac

  2. It’s a PRIVILEGE to volunteer - not a right.

  3. Discipline and Dismissal • Discipline and Dismissal of Volunteers are no longer optional. • However, conflicts and differences in perceptions do occur.

  4. Discipline and Dismissal • The values, ethics and integrity of a program director and the volunteer are at stake. The termination of volunteers is a part of the ethical responsibility which volunteer managers must shoulder. It is a process which begins with the initial orientation of the volunteer and continues throughout the volunteer process. • Ann Cook, 1992

  5. When a problem exists or is brought to your attention… • Your response to each situation should be • This issue may become a bigger problem • Further steps may become necessary • You may be called on to defend your actions now that you are informed Caution

  6. Because problems can develop... • Maintain professional relationships with volunteers • There is a “line” • Balance is importance • Have established policies Caution

  7. So what do I do? • Make sure you have the facts – investigate • Talk with the person face-to-face if possible – it’s the best • Remain as neutral as possible • Maintain confidentiality • Take good notes

  8. Discipline and Dismissal • Steps in a progressive discipline process • Verbal warnings • Written warnings • Suspension • Dismissal • Example: UWEX /4-H model

  9. Outline for a Verbal Warning • 1. Describe alleged deed. • 2. Cite policy which is violated. • 3. Explain reason for policy. • 4. Ask volunteer if perceived problem exists to them. • 5. Ask volunteer what should be done. • 6. Reaffirm importance of compliance. • 7. Express importance of compliance and confidence. they can change their behavior. • Linda Graff and Associates

  10. A Written Warning should include... • Elements of Verbal Warning • Plus - time frame for change and end of opportunity • Plus - Consequences for no change

  11. How do we contribute to disciplinary problems? ? • Inadequate orientation • Didn’t monitor work • Thought if ignored problem, it would go away • Minimized seriousness of situation • Accepted any volunteer –even if they weren’t right for the job • Didn’t want to scare them off with actual expectations

  12. Grounds for Dismissal • Identified unacceptable actions • Abuse of power • Inability or failure to meet expectations • Inability to work within the mission • Inability to change ( self or program) • Linda Graff and Associates

  13. How to discipline.. • Act ethically and compassionately • Act quickly • Document every step • Use steps in verbal warning • Be prepared to listen to volunteers perspective • Establish time frame • Follow through

  14. Rightful Dismissal • Must be able to prove charges • Charges must be sufficient to warrant dismissal • Cause must be related to job performance • Procedures must have been followed Linda Graff and Associates

  15. IMMEDIATE DISMISSAL • Any behavior or action which is detrimental to the health, safety or reputation of agency personnel, clients or the agency itself.

  16. If safety concerns exist.. • Assess personal risk • Have a plan • Notify authorities if possible • Never handle a dismissal situation alone Be Careful

  17. Volunteer Legal Issues • Stay Calm • You have the University and the State of Wisconsin behind you • Apply Best practices

  18. Best Practices • Keep the discussion to a minimum

  19. You are not alone.. • Work with your liaison • Remember to follow best practices • Keep your focus on a quality youth program

More Related