• Volunteer Job Descriptions
• Volunteer Acknowledgment Form
• Training

<

>

 Volunteer Job Descriptions and Civil Rights Requirements 
Volunteer Position: Intake and Registration Assistant
Program: Shopper’s Choice food pantry
Reports to: Pantry Director
Time commitment: 10:30am – 4:30pm on Fridays or as able to serve.
Position Summary
The Intake and Registration Assistant welcomes pantry guests, supports the check-in process, and helps maintain accurate records. This role is often the first point of contact and sets the tone for a respectful, low-stress experience. All interactions must prioritize privacy, consent, and a guest’s right to control what information they share.
Core Responsibilities

• Greet guests in a calm, respectful manner and explain the check-in process.
• Ask permission before collecting any personal information or beginning registration.
• Assist with sign-in, verification, or required program forms as directed by staff.
• Clearly explain why information is requested and how it will be used.
• Respect a guest’s choice to decline optional questions or assistance.
• Maintain orderly records according to pantry procedures.
• Protect confidentiality of all personal information.
• Direct guests to the appropriate waiting or shopping area once check-in is complete.
• Refer questions, concerns, or eligibility issues to staff or the shift lead.

Consent, Privacy, and Autonomy Standards
Beginning intake

• Ask permission before starting:
  • “May I help you check in today?”
  • “Is it okay if I ask a few questions for our records?”
• If a guest declines or prefers staff assistance, respect the decision immediately and notify staff.

Handling personal information

• Only request information required by pantry policy or program guidelines.
• Do not ask for additional personal details out of curiosity.
• Explain confidentiality simply:
  • “Your information is kept private and only used for pantry services.”
• Speak quietly and avoid discussing personal information within hearing of others.

Physical documents and devices

• Ask before handling a guest’s paperwork, phone, or identification.
• Example: “May I take this to enter it into our system?”
• Return all documents promptly.

Personal space and physical contact

• Maintain appropriate physical distance.
• Do not initiate physical contact such as hugs or guiding touch.
• If assistance requires proximity (for example, helping with a form), ask first:
  • “Would you like help filling this out?”
• Respect all boundaries without question.

Professional Conduct

• Use neutral, nonjudgmental language.
• Avoid commenting on a guest’s circumstances, income, or household situation.
• Keep lines moving while ensuring each guest feels respected and not rushed.
• Stay calm during busy periods and seek staff support when needed.
• Follow all nondiscrimination and confidentiality policies.

Skills and Qualifications

• Friendly, composed communication style.
• Ability to handle sensitive information discreetly.
• Basic comfort with forms, tablets, or simple data entry (if applicable).
• Willingness to follow established procedures and ask questions when unsure.

Training Provided

• Pantry intake procedures and required documentation
• Confidentiality and data privacy practices
• Consent-based communication
• Trauma-informed service approach
• De-escalation basics and when to refer to staff

Key Principle
Check-in should feel safe, private, and respectful. Guests choose how much assistance they want, what information they share within program requirements, and how they move through the process. The Intake and Registration Assistant supports that autonomy at every step.
 
Volunteer Position: Shopping Assistant
Program: Shopper’s Choice food pantry
Reports to: Pantry Director
Time commitment: 10:30am to 4:30pm on Fridays or as able to serve.
Position Summary
The Shopping Assistant supports pantry guests as they select food and household items in a client-choice environment. The role prioritizes dignity, independence, and informed consent. Assistance is offered—not assumed—and all interactions must respect personal boundaries, cultural differences, and individual autonomy.
Core Responsibilities

• Greet shoppers in a friendly, calm, and respectful manner.
• Offer assistance clearly and wait for verbal consent before helping.
• Support shoppers who request help with locating items, reading labels, carrying items, or navigating the pantry.
• Respect a shopper’s decision to decline assistance without follow-up pressure.
• Maintain awareness of accessibility needs and adjust support accordingly.
• Keep aisles organized and stocked while remaining attentive to shoppers who may request help.
• Refer any concerns, conflicts, or special needs to staff or the shift lead.

Consent and Autonomy Standards
This role requires strict adherence to personal-space and consent practices.
Offering assistance

• Use clear, neutral language:
  • “Would you like any help today?”
  • “I’m available if you’d like assistance finding items.”
• If a shopper declines, respond with:
  • “Of course. I’ll be nearby if you change your mind.”
• Do not continue offering help after a decline unless the shopper later requests it.

Physical assistance

• Always ask permission before touching a cart, mobility device, personal belongings, or a person.
• Example: “May I help carry that for you?”
• Wait for a clear yes before acting.

Physical contact and personal space

• Physical contact, including hugs, hand-on-shoulder gestures, or guiding touch, must never be initiated without explicit permission.
• Many guests have trauma histories, health concerns, cultural norms, or personal preferences that require distance.
• Appropriate language:
  • “Would you like a handshake or a hug, or would you prefer no contact?”
• If permission is not clearly granted, do not initiate contact.
• Respect all boundaries immediately and without question.

Professional Conduct

• Treat all shoppers with dignity and without judgment.
• Avoid intrusive questions about personal circumstances.
• Maintain confidentiality regarding shoppers’ situations.
• Follow all pantry policies related to safety, equity, and nondiscrimination.
• Use calm, neutral communication even in stressful situations.

Skills and Qualifications

• Comfortable interacting with diverse populations.
• Able to follow direction and pantry procedures.
• Willingness to learn trauma-informed and consent-based service practices.
• Ability to stand, walk, and lift light to moderate items (with accommodation as needed).

Training Provided

• Client-choice pantry model
• Consent and boundary practices
• Trauma-informed service
• Cultural respect and communication
• Safety procedures

Key Principle
The pantry is a dignity-centered environment. Assistance is offered with permission. Personal space and bodily autonomy are always respected. Every shopper directs their own experience.

Volunteer Position: Bagger and Carry-Out Assistant
Program: Shopper’s choice food pantry
Reports to: Pantry Director
Time commitment: 10:30am to 4:30pm on Fridays or as able to serve
Position Summary
The Bagger and Carry-Out Assistant helps shoppers pack their selected items and, when requested, transport groceries to vehicles or designated pick-up areas. This role supports efficiency and safety while maintaining a dignity-centered environment. All help must be offered with permission. Shoppers decide what assistance they want and how close volunteers may be.
Core Responsibilities

• Offer bagging assistance in a respectful, nonintrusive manner.
• Pack groceries carefully to protect food quality and shopper preferences.
• Ask before lifting, carrying, or handling personal carts or belongings.
• Provide carry-out support to vehicles only when the shopper requests or agrees.
• Follow safe lifting practices and use carts or dollies when available.
• Keep bagging and exit areas organized and clear of hazards.
• Return carts and maintain order after each carry-out.
• Notify staff of any safety concerns, mobility needs, or incidents.

Consent, Personal Space, and Autonomy Standards
Offering help

• Use clear permission-based language:
  • “Would you like help bagging today?”
  • “May I carry these to your vehicle?”
• Wait for a clear yes before assisting.
• If a shopper declines, respond simply:
  • “Of course. Let me know if you change your mind.”
• Do not insist or repeat offers after a decline unless the shopper asks later.

Handling items

• Ask before touching a cart, reusable bags, purse, backpack, or personal belongings.
• Confirm preferences when bagging:
  • “Are there items you’d like bagged separately?”
• Respect food handling preferences when possible.

Physical contact and proximity

• Maintain appropriate distance unless assistance is requested.
• Never initiate physical contact such as hugs, guiding touch, or hand-on-shoulder gestures.
• If close assistance is needed for mobility or lifting, ask clearly:
  • “Would you like an arm for balance, or would you prefer I carry items only?”
• Accept all boundaries without comment or pressure.

Safety and Carry-Out Procedures

• Use proper lifting technique and request help for heavy loads.
• Follow traffic and parking safety practices.
• Do not enter a shopper’s vehicle unless explicitly directed by staff policy.
• Place items where the shopper requests and confirm before leaving.
• Return promptly to the pantry after carry-out.
• If you must cross a public street you must follow all laws pertaining to pedestrians in the roadway.

Professional Conduct

• Treat every shopper with dignity and neutrality.
• Avoid personal questions or commentary about a shopper’s selections.
• Maintain confidentiality regarding who uses the pantry.
• Work cooperatively with other volunteers and staff to keep flow moving.
• Stay attentive during busy times while maintaining respectful communication.

Skills and Qualifications

• Able to stand, walk, and lift moderate loads with accommodation as needed.
• Friendly, calm communication style.
• Willingness to follow direction and safety procedures.
• Comfortable working outdoors briefly in varying weather conditions.

Training Provided

• Safe lifting and carrying practices
• Consent-based service expectations
• Client-choice pantry model
• Traffic and parking safety
• Boundary and confidentiality standards

Key Principle
Assistance is always optional. Shoppers determine what help they receive, who handles their items, and how close volunteers may be. Respect for personal space, autonomy, and dignity takes priority over speed or convenience.

Volunteer Position: Stocking Assistant
Program: Shopper’s Choice Food Pantry
Reports to: Pantry Director
Time commitment: Typically 2–4 hours per shift
Position Summary
The Stocking Assistant ensures shelves, coolers, and storage areas remain organized, safe, and well supplied. This role supports an efficient client-choice environment while maintaining respect for shoppers’ space and autonomy. Stocking work often happens around guests, so volunteers must be attentive, unobtrusive, and responsive to consent and personal-space expectations.
Core Responsibilities

• Stock shelves, coolers, and freezers according to pantry layout and rotation procedures.
• Check dates and follow first-in, first-out (FIFO) practices.
• Keep aisles clear and accessible for shoppers using carts, walkers, or wheelchairs.
• Break down boxes and maintain clean, safe storage areas.
• Monitor inventory levels and inform staff when items run low.
• Assist with receiving donations or deliveries as directed.
• Pause stocking when needed to allow shoppers safe and comfortable access to items.

Respect for Shoppers and Shared Space
Working around shoppers

• Be aware of personal space and avoid blocking access to shelves.
• Step aside promptly when a shopper approaches.
• Use simple language when necessary:
  • “Please go ahead. Let me know if you need anything moved.”
• Do not assume a shopper wants help reaching items. Offer assistance only if appropriate and with permission.

Offering assistance while stocking

• If a shopper appears to need help, ask:
  • “Would you like a hand reaching that?”
• Accept a no immediately and continue stocking without comment.
• Do not touch a shopper’s cart or items without permission.

Physical contact and boundaries

• Maintain appropriate distance in aisles and work areas.
• Do not initiate physical contact such as guiding touch or hugs.
• If close proximity is unavoidable while stocking, acknowledge politely and give space as soon as possible.

Safety and Handling

• Use proper lifting techniques and request help with heavy items.
• Follow food safety guidelines for refrigerated and frozen goods.
• Report damaged items, spills, or hazards immediately.
• Keep exits and walkways clear at all times.

Professional Conduct

• Maintain a calm, neutral presence on the floor.
• Avoid discussing donations, quantities, or shortages in ways that could create concern for shoppers.
• Respect confidentiality regarding who uses pantry services.
• Follow all pantry procedures and direction from staff or shift leads.

Skills and Qualifications

• Able to lift, carry, and shelve moderate-weight items with accommodation as needed.
• Comfortable working in storage areas, coolers, and public pantry space.
• Attention to organization and detail.
• Willingness to follow established layout and stocking systems.

Training Provided

• Pantry layout and stocking procedures
• Date checking and food-safety basics
• Safe lifting and equipment use
• Consent and boundary expectations
• Accessibility awareness in shared spaces

Key Principle
Stocking supports the shopping experience without interrupting it. Volunteers maintain an organized environment while ensuring shoppers retain full control of their space, movement, and choices.
 
Civil Rights and Equitable Treatment Policy
Applies to all pantry services supported by USDA (TEFAP and CSFP) and Community Services Block Grant (CSBG)
Our pantry receives federal support through USDA nutrition programs and the Community Services Block Grant. All volunteers and staff must provide services in a manner that ensures equal access, fair treatment, and respect for every participant. These standards apply to all interactions with pantry guests and to all services funded in whole or in part by these programs.
1. Nondiscrimination and Equal Treatment
Services must be provided without discrimination or unequal treatment. No participant may be denied service, treated differently, delayed, discouraged, or harassed based on protected civil-rights categories under applicable federal law.
Volunteers must:

• Provide the same level of courtesy, service, and information to all participants.
• Follow the same procedures for all households.
• Avoid comments, actions, or assumptions that could be perceived as biased or judgmental.
• Never create additional requirements or barriers for certain individuals or households.

2. Dignity, Autonomy, and Respect
Equitable treatment includes protecting a participant’s dignity and personal autonomy.

• Offer assistance; do not assume it is wanted.
• Ask permission before touching a person, mobility aid, cart, or personal belongings.
• Respect personal space and boundaries.
• Avoid intrusive questions about a participant’s circumstances.
• Maintain a welcoming and neutral environment for all guests.

3. Public Notification
Participants must be informed of their civil-rights protections.

• The “And Justice for All” poster must be displayed in a visible public area.
• Required nondiscrimination language must be used on applicable program materials referencing USDA programs.
• Participants must be informed that they have the right to file a discrimination complaint.

4. Language Access
Participants with limited English proficiency must be able to access services.

• Do not turn anyone away due to language barriers.
• Notify the shift lead if interpretation or translation support is needed.
• Use available translated materials when provided.

5. Disability Access and Reasonable Accommodations
Participants with disabilities must have equal opportunity to receive services.

• Provide reasonable assistance when requested.
• Keep pathways and service areas accessible.
• Notify staff if additional accommodation is needed beyond standard volunteer support.

6. Confidentiality
Information collected for eligibility or service delivery must be handled discreetly.

• Speak quietly when assisting with forms or personal information.
• Do not discuss participant information outside of pantry operations.
• Follow pantry procedures for handling documents and data.

7. Civil Rights Complaints
Any participant has the right to file a complaint if they believe they have been treated unfairly.
If a participant expresses a concern:

• Remain calm and respectful.
• Notify the shift lead or pantry staff immediately.
• Provide information on how to file a complaint if requested.
  Volunteers must not attempt to investigate or resolve civil-rights complaints independently.

8. Training Requirement
All volunteers who interact with participants must follow civil-rights training and pantry policies. Training covers nondiscrimination, equitable treatment, confidentiality, accessibility, and proper response to concerns or complaints.
9. Standard of Practice
When multiple funding sources apply, the pantry follows the most protective civil-rights standard to ensure equitable treatment for all participants. Every participant must be able to access services in an environment that is fair, welcoming, private, and respectful.
 

• Consent Training
• Trauma Informed Training
• Safety Training

<

>

Consent and Boundaries Training
For Food Pantry Volunteers
This training explains how volunteers interact with guests in a way that respects dignity, autonomy, and personal space. Every volunteer is expected to follow these practices at all times.

1. Why Consent and Boundaries Matter
​People who visit a pantry may have different comfort levels with help, conversation, and physical space. Some may have experienced trauma, health concerns, cultural differences, or simply prefer independence.
Respecting consent and boundaries:

• Protects dignity
• Builds trust
• Prevents misunderstandings
• Supports a calm environment
• Meets civil-rights and equitable-treatment expectations

Every guest has the right to decide:

• What help they want
• How close volunteers stand
• Whether they want conversation
• Whether they want physical contact

2. The Core Rule
Offer help. Do not assume help is wanted.
Always ask first.
Wait for a clear yes before assisting.
If the answer is no, respect it immediately.

3. Offering Assistance
Use simple, neutral language:
Would you like help today
May I assist you
Let me know if you would like a hand
If a guest declines:
Of course. I’ll be nearby if you change your mind.
Do not:

• Repeat the offer multiple times
• Pressure the guest
• Show disappointment
• Step in anyway

4. Physical Contact
Never initiate physical contact without permission.
This includes:

• Hugs
• Touching a shoulder or arm
• Guiding someone physically
• Taking hold of a cart
• Handling personal belongings

If a situation might involve contact, ask clearly:
Would you like help carrying that
Would you like an arm for balance
If permission is unclear, do not proceed.

5. Personal SpaceMaintain appropriate distance when speaking with guests.
Stand at a respectful conversational distance.
Avoid crowding or stepping too close.
Be especially mindful in:

• Lines
• Tight aisles
• Registration areas

Step aside when possible to give guests room.

6. Respecting Autonomy
Guests are in control of their shopping experience.
Volunteers should not:

• Choose items for guests
• Rearrange their selections
• Direct them unless asked
• Push assistance after a decline

Your role is to support, not direct.

7. Communication Boundaries
Keep interactions friendly but professional.
Avoid:

• Personal questions about finances or living situation
• Advice about life decisions
• Religious or political discussions
• Physical affection without permission

Appropriate topics include:

• Pantry process
• Item locations
• Safety
• Neutral conversation

8. Cultural and Personal Differences
Comfort with touch and conversation varies widely.
What feels friendly to one person may feel intrusive to another.
When unsure, default to:

• Asking permission
• Keeping distance
• Using neutral language

9. Responding to Stress or EmotionSome guests may feel overwhelmed, embarrassed, or frustrated.
If someone seems upset:

• Stay calm
• Speak gently
• Offer help once
• Give space if needed

If a situation escalates:

• Notify staff or the shift lead
• Do not attempt to manage conflict alone

10. When Volunteers Need to Adjust Behavior
If a volunteer tends to be very physically expressive or highly social, they must still follow pantry standards.
This means:

• No hugging unless requested
• No touching without permission
• No over-assisting
• No taking control

Friendly presence is welcome.
Physical contact is optional and guest-directed.

11. Confidentiality and Respect
Respecting boundaries also includes protecting privacy.
Do not:

• Discuss a guest’s situation with others
• Share names or details outside pantry operations
• Talk about guests in public areas

12. If a Boundary Concern Occurs
If a guest appears uncomfortable:

• Step back
• Apologize briefly
• Give space

Example:
I’m sorry about that. I’ll give you space. Let me know if you need anything.
If a complaint is made:

• Notify staff or leadership immediately
• Do not argue or explain
• Do not attempt to resolve alone

13. Key Reminders
Ask before helping
Ask before touching
Respect “no” immediately
Maintain personal space
Support independence
Stay professional
When unsure, step back

Trauma-Informed Service Training
For Food Pantry Volunteers
Applies to TEFAP, CSFP, and CSBG service environments

1. Purpose of This Training
This training helps volunteers provide service that is calm, respectful, and supportive of all guests. Many people who visit a pantry are experiencing stress. Some may be dealing with financial pressure, health concerns, housing instability, grief, or past trauma.
Trauma-informed service means we interact in ways that avoid causing additional stress and help guests feel safe and respected.
The goal is not to provide counseling.
The goal is to provide food in a way that preserves dignity and reduces stress.

2. Core Principles
Trauma-informed service in a pantry setting focuses on five simple practices:
Safety
Create an environment that feels calm and predictable.
Choice
Let guests make their own decisions whenever possible.
Respect
Use neutral, nonjudgmental communication.
Trust
Be consistent and clear about procedures.
Boundaries
Respect personal space and autonomy.

3. Understanding Stress in Pantry Settings
Guests may feel:

• Embarrassed
• Anxious
• Overwhelmed
• Tired
• Frustrated
• Distrustful

These reactions are normal responses to stress.
Volunteers should not:

• Take frustration personally
• Try to “fix” emotional situations
• Ask for personal details
• Offer advice

Stay calm and focused on the task: helping them access food.

4. Creating a Calm Environment
Volunteers help create a safe environment by:

• Speaking in a calm tone
• Avoiding sudden or loud directions
• Giving clear, simple instructions
• Keeping lines orderly
• Respecting personal space
• Avoiding crowding

Consistency helps people feel more comfortable.

5. Offering Help Respectfully
Always offer help rather than assuming it is needed.
Examples:
Would you like help finding anything
May I assist you
If the guest declines:
Of course. Let me know if you change your mind.
Respect the answer immediately.
Avoid repeated offers or stepping in without permission.

6. Personal Space and Physical Contact
Some people are uncomfortable with touch or close proximity.
Volunteers should:

• Maintain appropriate distance
• Avoid touching without permission
• Avoid hugs unless clearly requested
• Ask before guiding someone physically

If unsure, do not touch.

7. Communication Guidelines
Use neutral, respectful language.
Helpful phrases:
Take your time
Let me know how I can help
I’m here if you need anything
Avoid:
Why questions about personal situations
Judgmental comments
Unsolicited advice
Comparisons
Focus on the task at hand.

8. When Someone Appears Upset
If a guest seems frustrated or emotional:

1. Stay calm
2. Lower your voice
3. Offer help once
4. Give space
5. Notify staff or shift lead if needed

Do not argue.
Do not try to solve personal problems.
Do not take comments personally.

9. Handling Conflict or Escalation
If a situation begins to escalate:

• Stay calm
• Do not raise your voice
• Do not block exits
• Step back if needed
• Contact leadership

If you feel unsafe, stop and get help immediately.

10. Maintaining Professional Boundaries
Volunteers are friendly but not counselors or case managers.
Do not:

• Offer personal opinions
• Share personal stories in detail
• Provide financial advice
• Promise resources
• Discuss politics or religion
• Form dependent relationships

Be supportive without becoming personally involved.

11. Supporting Autonomy
Guests should maintain control of their experience whenever possible.
Allow guests to:

• Choose their items
• Move at their own pace
• Accept or decline help
• Decide how much conversation they want

Respect independence.

12. Cultural Awareness
People come from different backgrounds and cultures.
Be mindful that:

• Eye contact expectations vary
• Personal space expectations vary
• Communication styles vary

When unsure:
Use respectful language and ask permission before assisting.

13. Volunteer Self-Awareness
Volunteers should monitor their own reactions.
If you feel:

• Frustrated
• Overwhelmed
• Defensive

Pause and take a breath.
Step back if needed.
Ask another volunteer or staff member for support.

14. When to Involve Leadership
Contact staff or a board member if:

• A guest becomes highly upset
• A conflict escalates
• A safety concern arises
• A complaint is made
• You feel unsure how to respond

Do not attempt to manage serious situations alone.

15. Key Reminders
​Stay calm
Offer help without pressure
Respect personal space
Avoid judgment
Protect privacy
Keep interactions simple
Ask for help when unsure
Trauma-informed service is about how we treat people, not about providing therapy.

Safety Procedures TrainingFor Food Pantry Volunteers
Applies to TEFAP, CSFP, and CSBG service environments
1. Purpose of This Training
Safety procedures help protect volunteers, guests, and the pantry facility.
Every volunteer shares responsibility for maintaining a safe environment.
This training covers:

• Preventing injuries
• Responding to incidents
• Maintaining safe conditions
• Knowing when to stop and get help

Volunteers are not expected to handle emergencies alone.
When in doubt, pause and contact leadership.
2. General Safety Principles
Keep the environment calm and orderly.
Be aware of your surroundings.
Report hazards immediately.
Ask for help with heavy or unsafe tasks.
Follow directions from staff or shift leads.
Do not ignore unsafe conditions.
3. Safe Lifting and CarryingImproper lifting is a common cause of injury.
Basic lifting steps

• Stand close to the item
  
• Bend knees, not your back
  
• Lift with your legs
  
• Keep item close to body
  
• Avoid twisting while carrying
  

Use help when needed

• Ask another volunteer for team lifting
  
• Use carts or dollies
  
• Do not lift more than you can safely manage
  

Carry-out safety

• Watch for uneven ground
  
• Be aware of vehicles
  
• Walk slowly
  
• Place items where directed
  

4. Preventing Slips, Trips, and FallsKeep walkways clear.
Clean spills immediately.
Watch for wet floors.
Keep cords and boxes out of pathways.
Use caution in parking areas and entryways.
If you see a hazard:

• Stay near it
  
• Alert others
  
• Notify staff or shift lead
  
• Address it safely if able
  

5. Food Safety BasicsVolunteers must handle food safely.
Hand hygieneWash hands before handling food and after breaks, restroom use, or touching face.
Damaged foodDo not distribute:

• Open packages
  
• Leaking containers
  
• Severely dented cans
  
• Spoiled items
  

Set aside and notify staff.
Temperature awarenessKeep refrigerated and frozen items in proper storage.
Do not leave perishable food out longer than necessary.
Clean surfacesKeep tables and packing areas clean.
Use provided cleaning supplies as directed.

6. Parking Lot and Entry SafetyBe aware of vehicle movement.
Stay visible when walking outside.
Use caution in icy or wet conditions.
Assist with carry-out only when safe.
If weather conditions are severe, notify staff or leadership.

7. Injury ResponseIf someone is injured:

1. Stay calm
   
2. Stop activity
   
3. Check if emergency help is needed
   
4. Notify staff or shift lead immediately
   
5. Call emergency services if necessary
   

Do not move someone who is seriously injured unless required for safety.
8. Illness or Health ConcernsIf a volunteer feels unwell:

• Notify staff
  
• Step away from food handling
  
• Leave shift if necessary
  

If a guest becomes ill:

• Stay calm
  
• Notify leadership
  
• Provide space
  
• Call emergency services if needed
  

9. Fire and Emergency ProceduresKnow basic exits and pathways.
Keep exits clear.
If a fire alarm or emergency occurs:

• Stop activity
  
• Direct people calmly to exits
  
• Call emergency services
  
• Notify leadership
  

Do not re-enter building until cleared.

10. Conflict or Unsafe BehaviorIf someone becomes aggressive or unsafe:

• Stay calm
  
• Keep distance
  
• Do not argue
  
• Notify leadership
  
• Call emergency services if needed
  

Volunteer safety comes first.
11. Working Without Staff PresentIf volunteers are running a shift:
Pause service and contact a board member if:

• Injury occurs
  
• Conflict escalates
  
• Safety conditions are unclear
  
• Building issues arise
  
• Volunteers feel unsure how to proceed
  

Emergency: call emergency services first.
12. Incident ReportingReport any of the following:

• Injuries
  
• Falls
  
• Food safety concerns
  
• Property damage
  
• Unsafe conditions
  
• Conflicts
  

Provide basic details to staff or leadership.
13. Volunteer Self-SafetyVolunteers should:

• Wear appropriate footwear
  
• Avoid rushing
  
• Take breaks if needed
  
• Ask for help
  
• Stay aware of surroundings
  

Do not perform tasks that feel unsafe.
14. Key RemindersSafety first
Lift carefully
Keep walkways clear
Handle food safely
Report hazards
Get help when unsure
Pause service if needed