It is the organization’s policy to provide a pleasant working environment for all. This is achieved by developing and maintaining cooperative working relationships among paid and non-paid staff, based on mutual respect and understanding. Suggestions for improving the work flow are always welcome and should be discussed with your supervisor at a time when he/she is able to give it full attention.

Misunderstandings or conflicts can arise in any organization. To ensure effective working relationships, it is important that such matters be resolved before serious problems develop. Most incidents resolve themselves naturally: however, should a situation persist that you believe is detrimental to you or to the organization, you should follow the procedure described below:

First, discuss the problem with your immediate department supervisor. If the complaint concerns your supervisor, and you don’t think discussion with him/her will be productive, proceed to the next step.

Should the problem not be solved, you are encouraged to discuss the matter with the Volunteer Program Manager.

Finally, if the problem continues, notify the Volunteer Program Manager so that a Grievance Committee of staff and volunteers may be scheduled to meet to resolve the matter.

The Volunteer Office maintains records on each volunteer. These files contain documentation regarding all aspects of the volunteer’s tenure with the organization, such as the volunteer application form, resume ( if forwarded), letters of reference, training records, new volunteer checklist, performance evaluations and letters of commendation or awards. Volunteers are responsible for advising the Volunteer Office of any change in address, phone number, email or name.

These files are available for review by yourself, your supervisor, Volunteer manager and any appropriate Corporate Officer of the A.R.E. They are also available to other areas of management if the volunteer is actively seeking a position in their area. Otherwise, these files are considered strictly confidential and are not available to others.