Copy - CVCOA Volunteer Orientation

CVCOA VolunteerOrientation

A World Where Aging is Honored

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Welcome to CVCOA

Volunteers like you add to the vibrancy of our agency, strengthen our communities, and make a huge difference in the lives of our older neighbors. This course will introduce you to the work we do and our programs, policies, and procedures. If you have any questions or concerns, you are encouraged to speak to a member of our team. We want you to have a positive and meaningful experience.

Together we can create communities where we age with dignity and choice, a world where aging is honored.

Welcome

Learn more about CVCOA activities.

Who we are

For more than 40 years, Central Vermont Council on Aging (CVCOA) has been supporting Central Vermonters to age with dignity and choice. CVCOA is a 501(c)3 nonprofit.

CVCOA is one of the state's five Area Agencies on Aging which help older people and their families by providing services authorized by the federal government's Older Americans Act (OAA) signed into law on July 14 1965. We partner with the Vermont Department of Disabilities, Aging and Independent Living (DAIL), as well as numerous community partners and sponsors.

Community partners & sponsors

CVCOA website

Who we serve

in 54 towns

Age 60+

In Washington, Lamoille, and Orange counties plus the towns of Bethel, Hancock, Granville, Pittsfield, Rochester, Sharon, and Stockbridge. (We do not service Thetford.)

Central Vermonters, their caregivers, and their families.

for $0

2,500+ people

Donations are accepted. (There may be a service fee for younger adults who receive services due to disabilities.)

In total are served each year through our programs.

Our guiding principles: mission, vision, values and goals

Mission

Goals

Values

Vision

To support Central Vermonters to age with dignity and choice.

Information and options, healthy activities, systems advocacy, and public awareness.

Respect and empowerment, community involvement, ethical action, compassion, supportive workplace, and stewardship.

A world where aging is honored.

More info

More info

What we do

Information & Assistance

CVCOA Helpline and Information & Assistance (I&A)

Health Insurance Specialists

Options Counselors

What we do

Case Management & Support

Case Managers

Family Caregiver Support

Partner Vermont Legal Aid

Elder Care Clinicians

What we do

Community & Volunteer Services

Nutrition & Wellness Program

Local Transportation Provider Partners

National Service Program

Volunteer Programs

Learn more about CVCOA

Click on links below to go to the CVCOA website in a new tab. Close the new tab to return to this course.

Upcoming Events

CVCOA website

Impact Reports

Leadership

2022-2025 Area Plan

Recent News

Learning Modules

Now get acquainted with how you can help aging Vemonters. Make a choice based on your volunteer assignment. After you complete the module, you will return here so you can make another choice.

One-on-one Volunteers

Good Neighbors

Driver Volunteers

Meals on Wheels

AmeriCorps Seniors

RSVP

Complete course and get a certificate

01

CVCOA RSVP Program

of Central Vermont and the Northeast Kingdom

AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP

RSVP (Retired and Senior Volunteer Program) is a program of AmeriCorps Seniors, which is one of the largest volunteer networks in the nation for people age 55 and older. In RSVP, you can use the skills and talents you’ve learned over the years, or develop new ones while serving in a variety of volunteer activities in your community.

What is AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP

Originally conceived during John F. Kennedy’s presidency, AmeriCorps currently links more than 270,000 Americans of all ages to service opportunities. Their contributions of skills, knowledge, and experience make a real difference to individuals, non-profits, faith-based and other community organizations throughout the U.S. Volunteering and national service is a vital and cost-effective solution to our nation’s most-difficult challenges. Learn how CVCOA and older Vermonters benefit from AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP.

4. CVCOA

3. RSVP

2. AmeriCorps Seniors

1. AmeriCorps

CVCOA RSVP volunteers...

CVCOA RSVP additional activities

Supporting local senior centers

Fostering creativity and social connection

Helping older Vermonters navigate technology

Assisting with errands and household tasks

Providing special events and programming support

Where CVCOA RSVP volunteers serve

Volunteer stations by county

You can find CVCOA RSVP volunteers across the state doing tremendous work helping older Vermonters and local partner organizations in meeting their missions.

Caledonia

Essex

Volunteer Stations

CVCOA RSVP volunteers serve at "volunteer stations." A station is a partner non-profit organization that has a written agreement with CVCOA RSVP to provide volunteer assignments for you.

Lamoille

91%

Orange

of CVCOA volunteers are a part of AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP.

Orleans

Washington

CVCOA RSVP offers volunteers...

Support

The chance to learn new things

A tailored volunteer experience

Recognition

A secure experience

Onging follow-up and support from your RSVP coordinator.

Recognition for the service you provide.

An opportunity to learn new skills.

Supplemental volunteer liability insurance: personal injury, personal liability and excess auto coverage.

Volunteer assignments that match your interest and skills.

CVCOA RSVP also offers...

Lasting impact

Opportunity to "Be the Change"

Life changing engagement

You'll get the chance to create a healthy future for all of us who are aging.

You'll receive the social and health benefits of volunteering.

You'll have the opportunity to make a difference.

CVCOA RSVP volunteer responsibilities

The following rules help ensure that you will have a positive volunteer experience:

• Follow the volunteer guidelines provided to you by your supervisor
• Always identify yourself as an RSVP volunteer
• Conduct yourself in a professional manner
• Maintain confidentiality at all times
• Sign-in to report your volunteer hours
• Notify the RSVP coordinator when your contact information changes
• Notify the RSVP coodinator of any unresolved problems with your volunteer assignment

"Following these guidelines helps create a fantastic and rewarding volunteer experience for everyone!"

Please note that adherence to these guidelines is essential. Failure to comply may result in reevaluation of your volunteer status.

+ Volunteer Handbook

Volunteer station responsibilities

Your volunteer station supervisor is your regular program contact, and they will :

• Provide orientation and training
• Supply any needed material
• Provide for your safety; report accidents and injuries to CVCOA
• Collect and submit volunteer hours
• Identify as a RSVP Volunteer Station
• Recognize the service and achievement of RSVP volunteers

Your volunteer station supervisor will provide you with information about how you can be most helpful and in return, will listen and attempt to accommodate your needs as a volunteer.

Your safety

Car safety

Unsafe tasks

Avoid unsafe tasks, such as lifting an object too heavy for you, or any task that puts you at risk.

Wear your seat belt while traveling to perform your volunteer service.

Accident or injury

Illness

Seek appropriate medical help. Then contact the volunteer station supervisor and your RSVP coordinator to report the incident.

If you are feeling ill, stay home and take care of yourself. Please notify your volunteer station you won’t be able to serve.

Report your volunteer hours

AmeriCorps Seniors requires CVCOA to report volunteer hours to help justify federal appropriations for AmeriCorps.

CVCOA RSVP uses hours data to help us make program improvements.

Your volunteer station will tell you how to record and report your time.

Finally, volunteer hours report helps CVCOA tell the story of your great work.

1/6

2/6

3/6

4/6

5/6

6/6

Rules and provisions

Separation from service

Accessibility/ Reasonable accomodations

Grievance procedures

Prohibition of discrimination

Prohibition of religious and political activities

Nondisplacement of employees

Insurance/liability

Our Advisory Council leads the way

Empowering Communities Through Experience and Service

The role of the CVCOA RSVP Advisory Council is to keep abreast of what is being accomplished by RSVP and its volunteers, to offer advice to RSVP staff and assist with activities, and to advocate for RSVP in the community at large. The Advisory Council is made up of members selected from the community at large, RSVP volunteers, Volunteer Station representatives, and other interested community members. We encourage and invite your participation on the council. For more information, contact your RSVP coordinator.

"The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others."

– Mahatma Gandhi

02

Meals on Wheels

Meals on Wheels program

Video or alternative video from CVCOA ED, Outreach Coordinator, or Volunteer Coordinator

What is the Meals on Wheels program

Meals on Wheels volunteers play a vital role in delivering nutritious meals to homebound seniors and individuals with disabilities who may have difficulty preparing food themselves. By volunteering, you make a meaningful impact in your community, supporting independence and improving quality of life for those in need.

Delivering More Than Meals—Bringing Nutrition, Connection, and Care to Those in Need

Learn more

CVCOA website

Delivering so much more than meals!

CVCOA website

Clients of Meals of Wheels

Nationally, Meals on Wheels serves over 2 million Americans 60 and over as well as younger disabled adults who cannot shop or prepare meals for themselves.

92%

85%

of clients say the meals help them live independently.

of clients say say that service help them feel more secure.

Meals on Wheels volunteer responsiblities

The following rules help ensure that you will have a positive volunteer experience:

• Deliver hot nutritious meal in a safe, respectful and timely manner
• Briefly socialize with the recipient and report any concerns regarding health and well-being to the Nutrition Site
• Remind the client of information that is sent out concerning schedule changes
• Note client questions or comments on the route sheet

"Following these guidelines helps create a fantastic and rewarding volunteer experience for everyone!"

Please note that adherence to these guidelines is essential. Failure to comply may result in reevaluation of your volunteer status.

+ Meals on Wheels Handbook

Food safety best practices

Clients may be frail and especially vulnerable to bacteria so following food safety protocols is especially important.

Keep hot foods hot and cold foods cold. Leavefood in insulated containers until you arrive at each address. Remind clients who won’t be eating their meal right away to refrigerate it.

Food temperature

Be careful to deliver specially designed nutritional meals to those who need them (i.e., for people with diabetes).

Special meals

No drop off

Do not leave any meal at a client’s home if no one is there to receive it. No exceptions!

If you find many old meals in a client’s refrigerator, please let the Nutrition site know. Food more than 2-days old should be discarded.

Spoiled meals

Wash hands or use a hand sanitizer in between stops if a client requests you unpack a meal or place it in the refrigerator or freezer, or if you have physical contact with the recipient.

Hygiene

Confidentiality policy

You may discuss what you do as a Meals on Wheels volunteer with others, but it is inappropriate to reveal identifying information about the clients you serve. Maintain confidentiality and respect client privacy at all times. You may learn about clients' health, family, finances, and personal lives. You must not share this information with anyone who does not have a professional right or need to know.

The people to whom we deliver meals know us and trust us. It is important that all information about our clients remain confidential to ensure their safety and well-being.

Please note that adherence to these guidelines is essential. Failure to comply may result in reevaluation of your volunteer status.

+ Meals on Wheels Handbook

Nutrition site/station responsibilities

Your nutrition site/station supervisor is your regular program contact, and they will :

• let you know when to arrive and give you an estimated time for your route
• provide you with directions for your route and information on each client’s delivery (i.e., special meals, frozen meals, milk)
• train you on their practices

• tell you who to call when a client isn’t at home or there’s an emergency

Your site/station supervisor will provide you with information about how you can be most helpful and in return, will listen and attempt to accommodate your needs as a volunteer.

Arrival and interaction

“Hello, Meals on Wheels”

Knock loudly and identify yourself. If the client requires special accommodations such as using a certain door or you bringing in mail, you will be notified before your visit.

Please note that adherence to these guidelines is essential. Failure to comply may result in reevaluation of your volunteer status.

+ Good Neighbor Handbook

Have a brief conversation with the client as you may be their only social contact for the day.

What to do in unexpected situations

Report the situation

Try to make contact

Don't panic

If you discover any suspicious situation or something out of the ordinary, don't panic. There are many possible explanations.

Knock loudly and call out to the client, check another door to knock, or look into a window. Try calling the client from your cell phone.

Call the contact person identified by your Nutrition Site when a client doesn’t answer the door. Then leave an attempted delivery form.

Handling an emergency

In the case of a medical emergency, do not try to remedy the situation unless you are trained to do so. You could do more harm than good. Call 9-1-1 and stay with the person until help has arrived. Call your emergency contact person or the client’s emergency contact according to your site’s policy.

+ Good Neighbor Handbook

Deliveries in inclement weather

Deliveries will be canceled when driving conditions are dangerous as determined by the nutrition site/station. If you feel it is unsafe to drive where you live, please let the nutrition site/station director know as soon as possible so that a substitute driver can be arranged.

Please note that adherence to these guidelines is essential. Failure to comply may result in reevaluation of your volunteer status.

+ Good Neighbor Handbook

Monetary and other gifts policy

Volunteers may not accept gifts or money from a client. A “gift” is defined as goods with a value of $10 or more. (Occasionally, you may accept a gift item of less than $10, such as a small handmade item.) Money may not be accepted of any amount. Clients may be appreciative of the service you provide and want to pay you. Please graciously decline by explaining this policy. As an alternative, politely suggest a donation directly to Meals on Wheels.

Please note that adherence to these guidelines is essential. Failure to comply may result in reevaluation of your volunteer status.

Donations policy

The Older Americans’ Act, which funds x% of home delivered meal costs, mandates that clientshave the opportunity to make anonymous donations for the services they receive. Most clients give weekly or monthly donations. If a client directly gives you a donation, please bring it to the nutrition station/site.

have the opportunity to make anonymous donations

Please note that adherence to these guidelines is essential. Failure to comply may result in reevaluation of your volunteer status.

+ Good Neighbor Handbook

Responding to needs

If a client is having a problem of any kind, tell them about the CVCOA Help Line (802-477-1364). CVCOA will help them to explore solutions. The Central Vermont Council on Aging (CVCOA) is dedicated to supporting older individuals to be informed and make their own decisions.

+ Good Neighbor Handbook

Contacts for you

Empowering Communities Through Experience and Service

Your nutrition site/station will provide you with information on who to call in case a client doesn’t come to the door for their meal. If you are serving with AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP, your RSVP team at CVCOA is available for questions regarding your role for Meals on Wheels or to discuss other volunteer possibilities:

• Anne Greshin - 802-241-4840
• Marisa Eldred - 802-595-3486
• Emily Wilmers - 802-479-7553)

"Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on earth."

– Muhammad Ali

03

Good Neighbor Program

Good Neighbor program

Video or alternative video from CVCOA ED, Outreach Coordinator, or Volunteer Coordinator

What is the Good Neighbor program

Good Neighbor volunteers provide companionship and support to older neighbors. Tasks may include friendly calls, running errands, grocery shopping, light housework, yardwork, etc. Your visits help reduce social isolation and provide a regular wellness check. Also, you help your neighbor age in place with dignity and choice.

Volunteers like you make a huge difference in the lives of our older neighbors!

CVCOA website

Good Neighbor volunteers...

CVCOA website

Good Neighbors offers volunteers...

An opportunity help the community

An opportunity to make a personal impact

A rewarding relationship

Skills

Support

Receive ongoing support and recognition from CVCOA.

Obtain experience with older adults.

See the difference you make in someone’s life.

Contribute to the greater good of your community.

Enjoy a relationship that is rewarding to both you and the older adult.

Good Neighbor volunteer responsiblities

The following rules help ensure that you will have a positive volunteer experience:

• Follow the volunteer guidelines provided to you by your supervisor
• Always identify yourself as a volunteer
• Conduct yourself in a professional manner
• Maintain confidentiality at all times
• Sign-in to report your volunteer hours
• Notify the Good Neighbor program coordinator when your contact information changes
• Notify the Good Neighbor program coordinator of any unresolved problems with your volunteer assignment

"Following these guidelines helps create a fantastic and rewarding volunteer experience for everyone!"

Please note that adherence to these guidelines is essential. Failure to comply may result in reevaluation of your volunteer status.

+ Good Neighbor Handbook

Good Neighbor time commitment

You and your match will agree to a schedule. Once you agree on a mutually convenient frequency and day/time to meet, there is no minimum time commitment. Then, you can let the fun begin like this Good Neighbor program match that spends every Thursday at 3:00 on the court!

Click the basketball!

Representing CVCOA

Policies to know

Proceedures to follow

Good Neighbor program

Good Neighbors Policies

Conflict of interest

Confidientiality

Public appearance

Gifts & money

Alcohol, tobacco & drugs

Social media

Confidentiality policy

You may discuss what you do as a CVCOA Good Neighbor volunteer with others, but it is inappropriate to reveal identifying information about the clients you serve. Maintainconfidentiality and respect client privacy at all times. You may learn about clients' health, family, finances, and personal lives. You must not share this information with anyone who does not have a professional right or need to know.

If you feel an issue requires immediate attention, please inform the Director of Community Engagement and CVCOA staff will follow-up with the client. In an emergency, dial 911.

Please note that adherence to these guidelines is essential. Failure to comply may result in reevaluation of your volunteer status.

+ Good Neighbor Handbook

Confidentiality policy question

Confict of interest policy

CVCOA employees and volunteers shall not serve in a fiduciary capacity, including but not limited to:

1. Power of attorney
2. Executor of a will
3. Representative payee
4. Guardian of any older adult (except for a relative

Please note that adherence to these guidelines is essential. Failure to comply may result in reevaluation of your volunteer status.

+ Good Neighbor Handbook

Confidentiality policy question

Monetary and other gifts policy

Volunteers may not accept gifts or money from a client. A “gift” is defined as goods with a value of $10 or more. (Occasionally, you may accept a gift item of less than $10, such as baked goods or a small handmade item.) Money may not be accepted of any amount. Clients may be appreciative of the service you provide and want to pay you. Please graciously decline by explaining this policy. As an alternative, politely suggest a donation directly to CVCOA.

Please note that adherence to these guidelines is essential. Failure to comply may result in reevaluation of your volunteer status.

+ Good Neighbor Handbook

Monetary and other gifts question

Thanks for your help. Please take this gift.

Public appearance policy

Clothing should be clean and presentable and appropriate to the tasks you will be performing. Jeans and work shirt are fine, especially if you are doing yardwork or cleaning. Appropriate footwear is recommended; flip-flops are discouraged. Please be aware that heavy perfume, cologne, or aftershave, or the smell of cigarette smoke, can sometimes cause allergic reactions for some people.

Please note that adherence to these guidelines is essential. Failure to comply may result in reevaluation of your volunteer status.

+ Good Neighbor Handbook

Public appearance question

Social media policy

You may share that you are a CVCOA Good Neighbor Volunteer on social media, but you must respect the privacy of the client you assist. This includes not sharing:

• images
• names
• addresses
• any information that could identify the client

CVCOA obtains a signed media release from both clients and volunteers for any publicity activities. Once the photo and story are part of a CVCOA publication or social media, you can share as you like on social media.

Please note that adherence to these guidelines is essential. Failure to comply may result in reevaluation of your volunteer status.

+ Good Neighbor Handbook

Social media question

Emma has just finished a rewarding day helping a client, Mrs. Thompson, with her gardening. Feeling proud of the positive impact she’s made, Emma wants to share her experience on social media. She considers posting a photo of Mrs. Thompson and her beautiful garden, along with a heartfelt caption about the volunteer work she does.

Alcohol, drugs, and tobacco policy

Alcohol

Tobacco

Drugs

Smoking is not permitted while you are in a client’s home performing volunteer service. You are not permitted to purchase tobacco products on behalf of clients while doing their shopping.

CVCOA does not tolerate the use of drugs while performing service. You may not purchase drugs on behalf of clients. This includes prescription and over-the-counter drugs.

CVCOA does not tolerate the use of alcohol while performing service. You are not permitted to purchase alcohol on behalf of clients while doing their shopping.

Please note that adherence to these guidelines is essential. Failure to comply may result in reevaluation of your volunteer status.

+ Good Neighbor Handbook

Smoking home policy

If you wish, you may ask to be matched with a client who does not smoke. If you choose to serve in a smoking home but this becomes a challenge, you may politely ask the client to refrain from smoking for the short time you are together. If necessary, you can also request to be reassigned to a different client or task to ensure a comfortable and healthy environment for both you and the client.

Please note that adherence to these guidelines is essential. Failure to comply may result in reevaluation of your volunteer status.

+ Good Neighbor Handbook

Alcohol, drugs, and tobacco question

David is visiting a client, Mr. Johnson. During his visit, Mr. Johnson asks David to buy him a bottle of wine and some cigarettes. Additionally, Mr. Johnson begins smoking inside his home while Michael is there. Michael is a non-smoker and is concerned about the smoke. David knows CVCOA has strict policies regarding alcohol, drugs, and smoking.

Antidiscrimination and harassment policy

CVCOA is committed to a work environment that is free from any form of discrimination, intimidation, or harassment. No one shall discriminate against or harass another party because of age, race, color, religion, ancestry, sex, marital or civil union status, sexual or gender orientation, national origin, place of birth, citizenship, veteran status, or disability, or any other factor for which discrimination is prohibited by law.

discrimination

is free from any form of

intimidation

harassment

Please note that adherence to these guidelines is essential. Failure to comply may result in reevaluation of your volunteer status.

+ Good Neighbor Handbook

Discrimination and harassment examples

CVCOA is serious about creating a safe, supportive environment so you can do your best work. Harassment, including any of the following behavior, is not to be tolerated:

Disruptive behavior example

Coercive behavior example

Inappropriate comments example

Jessica helps Mr. Davis with grocery shopping and light housekeeping. During her visit, Mr. Davis begins yelling and using aggressive language when Jessica suggests they follow a shopping list. He repeatedly interrupts her, makes derogatory comments about her suggestions, and refuses to cooperate. This behavior makes it difficult for Jessica to perform her volunteer duties and creates a stressful and uncomfortable environment.

During a visit, Mrs. Thompson insists that Mark help her with personal financial tasks, such as writing checks and managing her bank accounts. Despite Mark's polite refusal, explaining that it is against CVCOA policy, Mrs. Thompson becomes increasingly insistent. She starts to imply that if Mark doesn't help her, she will report him to CVCOA for being unhelpful and make sure he is reassigned or dismissed.

Lisa has been paired with Mr. Brown, an elderly client who needs help with house cleaning and meal preparation. During one visit, Mr. Brown makes several derogatory comments about Lisa's ethnicity, implying that people of her background are not trustworthy. He also makes disparaging remarks about other races and religions, creating a hostile and uncomfortable environment for Lisa.

Disruptive behavior

Coercive behavior

Inappropriate comments

Please note that adherence to these guidelines is essential. Failure to comply may result in reevaluation of your volunteer status.

+ Good Neighbor Handbook

Discrimination and harassment recourse

Please take action if you experience harassment or feel uncomfortable.

Please note that adherence to these guidelines is essential. Failure to comply may result in reevaluation of your volunteer status.

+ Good Neighbor Handbook

Discrimination and harassment steps

If you are experiencing harassment or find yourself in an uncomfortable situation while volunteering, please notify the Director of Community Engagement or Volunteer Program Coordinator.

Immediately respond

Document

Report

Note the specific comments and the context in which they were made.

Calmly but firmly address behavior or comments stating that they are inappropriate and against CVCOA's policies.

Report the incident to the Director of Community Engagement or Volunteer Program Coordinator, provide documentation, and seek guidance on how to proceed.

Please note that adherence to these guidelines is essential. Failure to comply may result in reevaluation of your volunteer status.

+ Good Neighbor Handbook

Discrimination and harassment question

Please note that adherence to these guidelines is essential. Failure to comply may result in reevaluation of your volunteer status.

+ Good Neighbor Handbook

Safety policies

General safety

Driving

Emergencies & accidents

Suspected abuse reporting

Perceived risk rule

Your volunteer duties should not involve any activity that puts you at risk. If you do not feel comfortable with a client, the situation, or performing a proposed task, please tell CVCOA immediately.

Please note that adherence to these guidelines is essential. Failure to comply may result in reevaluation of your volunteer status.

+ Good Neighbor Handbook

Biohazard rule

We highly recommend volunteers do not handle any materials that contain bacteria, body fluids or animal excrement. If you encounter this situation, please notify CVCOA.

Please note that adherence to these guidelines is essential. Failure to comply may result in reevaluation of your volunteer status.

+ Good Neighbor Handbook

Heavy lifting rule

You should not lift heavy objects. Only lift objects which you can lift comfortably and safely. Use proper lifting techniques; bend at your knees, not at your waist, and use your leg muscles to help lift.

Please note that adherence to these guidelines is essential. Failure to comply may result in reevaluation of your volunteer status.

+ Good Neighbor Handbook

Pet safety rule

You are encouraged to ask clients to keep their pets confined while visiting. If pets are not adequately restrained, cancel your visit and notify CVCOA.

Please note that adherence to these guidelines is essential. Failure to comply may result in reevaluation of your volunteer status.

+ Good Neighbor Handbook

Your illness rule

If you are feeling ill or have symptoms of respiratory problems or flu, such as coughing, sneezing, heavy discharge, diarrhea, or rash, please stay home. A cold or flu can be life threatening to some older adults.

Please note that adherence to these guidelines is essential. Failure to comply may result in reevaluation of your volunteer status.

+ Good Neighbor Handbook

Client illness rule

Your health is important. If the client is seriously ill, we suggest you reschedule your visit. If you have serious concerns about the client’s health and you think they need medical attention, notify CVCOA.

Please note that adherence to these guidelines is essential. Failure to comply may result in reevaluation of your volunteer status.

+ Good Neighbor Handbook

Diving risk

Hazardous roads

Secondary coverage

Insurance required

CVCOA provides excess auto insurance.

Reschedule volunteer services when weather or other conditions make driving hazardous.

If you use your own car while volunteering, you must have state minimum liability insurance coverage.

Driving rules

+ Good Neighbor Handbook

Medical emergency

If a client is unresponsive and appears to need immediate medical attention, dial 9-1-1. Give the dispatcher the client’s name, address, and a description of what is wrong. Identify yourself, and then stay with the client until help arrives. Once the situation is handled by EMS, notify CVCOA.

+ Good Neighbor Handbook

Safety check emergency

If you go to a client’s home at the time you are expected and no one answers the door, call CVCOA if you have concerns.

+ Good Neighbor Handbook

Fall emergency

If the person you are visiting falls, do not try to pick them up yourself. Get assistance or call 9-1-1. Trying to lift a person who has fallen can cause further injury to the them or hurt you. Call the CVCOA office to report the situation.

+ Good Neighbor Handbook

Personal injury

If you have an accident or are injured during your volunteer service, seek appropriate medical help if necessary. When you are able, contact CVCOA.

+ Good Neighbor Handbook

Abuse, neglect, or exploitation reporting

If you encounter a situation of possible abuse, neglect, or exploitation of an elder or person with disability, report it immediately to CVCOA.

+ Good Neighbor Handbook

"Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much."

– Helen Keller

CERTIFICATEACHIEVEMENT

of

For the outstanding dedication and demonstrated achievements, we grant this certificate to

Full Name

recognizing your commitment to learning and your mastery of the course content. Congratulations on this significant achievement!

FULL NAME

FULL NAME

Course completed!

Our Values

• Respect and Empowerment: We respect and support without judgement the rights of older adults to make life choices for themselves, and we work to facilitate those choices.

• Community Involvment: We work together with families, communities, and other organizations to benefit older adults.
• Ethical Action: We work with older adults in an honest, informed, and principled way.
• Compassion: We do our work with compassion.
• Supportive Workplace: We value a healthy, safe, and respectful work environment.
• Stewardship: We consider the environmental, social, and financial impact of our work practices.

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Volunteer Stations - Washington County

The number of RSVP volunteers in Washington County by station.

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Nondisplacement of employees

RSVP volunteers cannot be placed in assignments which will displace an employee.

AmeriCorps Seniors

AmeriCorps Seniors is a federal program that engages Americans aged 55 and older in meaningful volunteer opportunities that address critical community needs. Through initiatives like the Foster Grandparent Program, Senior Companion Program, and RSVP, AmeriCorps Seniors volunteers bring their wealth of experience, skills, and knowledge to support various causes.

Prohibition against religious or political activities

CVCOA RSVP and volunteer station will not request or assign RSVP volunteers to conduct or engage in religious, sectarian or political activities.

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RSVP

RSVP (Retired and Senior Volunteer Program) is part of AmeriCorps Seniors. It offers flexible commitments and a wide range of service activities to seniors age 55+. RSVP volunteers stay active and engaged while contributing to the well-being and vitality of their communities.

Communities of caring

Meals on Wheels is the only federally supported program designed specifically to meet the nutritional and social needs of seniors. Frequent at home visits provide unique opportunities to meet nutritional needs, combat social isolation, and identify safety hazards. Meals on Wheels is a cost-effective solution that serves us all.

Volunteer Stations - Essex County

The number of RSVP volunteers in Essex County by station.

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Our Goals

• Information and Options: Older adults and caregivers have access to information, options, and resources to make decisions.
• Healthy Activities: Older adults meet their health needs and enjoy interpersonal connections and social interactions through access to programs and/or activities which promote healthy lifestyles, prevention of disease, volunteerism, and intergenerational activities.
• Systems Advocacy: Older adults have improved access to programs and services that enhance their abilities to reside in the setting of their choice and to plan for future long-term care needs.
• Public Awareness: The public is aware of issues related to aging and future demands on the long-term care service system.

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Grievance proceedure

If you have a problem that cannot be resolved, contact the RSVP Director who will act as a mediator. If a successful solution is not found, the you may request a meeting with the CVCOA Advisory Council.

Volunteer Stations - Orleans County

The number of RSVP volunteers in Orleans County by station.

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Communities of caring

Meals on Wheels is the only federally supported program designed specifically to meet the nutritional and social needs of seniors. Frequent at home visits provide unique opportunities to meet nutritional needs, combat social isolation, and identify safety hazards. Meals on Wheels is a cost-effective solution that serves us all.

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Volunteer Stations - Orange County

The number of RSVP volunteers in Orange County by station.

Link to Handbook

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Americorps

AmeriCorps is a federal agency of the Corporatoin for National and Community Service. Similiar to the Peace Corps, it brings people together to tackle the nation’s most pressing challenges through national service and volunteering. AmeriCorps programs not only strengthens communities but also enriches the lives of those who serve, fostering a spirit of civic engagement and social responsibility.

Insurance/liability

To minimize risks associated with volunteering, your volunteer station has signed an agreement regarding insurance and liability. While volunteering at your designated stations, your RSVP -sponsored volunteer liability insurance is in effect. If you take on additional roles in addtion to those in your position description, you will not be covered by RSVP insurance. Please notify the RSVP program if you want to take on additional responsibilities.

Separation from service

If you wish to separate from service, please notify your volunteer station supervisor and CVCOA volunteer coordinator. The program seeks to resolve conflicts, if possible. If a resolution is not found, you may request placement at another volunteer station or withdraw from service with RSVP at any time.

Volunteer stations and CVCOA RSVP reserve the right to remove a volunteer or take remedial action in the case of behavior expectation violations, including violations of AmeriCorps Seniors' prohibited activities.

Volunteer Stations - Caledonia County

The number of RSVP volunteers in Caledonia County by station.

Volunteer Stations - Lamoile County

The number of RSVP volunteers in Lamoile County by station.

Accessibility & reasonable accommodations

The programs and activities to which you are assigned will be accessible to persons with disabilities and provide reasonable accommodations to allow persons with disabilities to participate.

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Haven't we convinced you to use graphics in your creations yet? Well: there are studies showing that 50% of the brain is responsible for processing visual stimuli, and that this is retained 42% more when the content is animated.

Prohibition of discrimination

RSVP and the volunteer stations will not discriminate against RSVP volunteers or in the operation of its programs on the basis of age, race, color, religion, ancestry, sex, marital or civil union status, sexual or gender orientation, national origin, place of birth, citizenship, veteran status, or disability or any other factor for which discrimination is prohibited by law.

CVCOA RSVP

CVCOA RSVP volunteers play a special role at your local non-profit in helping to create a healthy future for older Vermonters. RSVP volunteers serve as little as 1-hour per week to 5-hours per day providing vital services.

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Haven't we convinced you to use graphics in your creations yet? Well: there are studies showing that 50% of the brain is responsible for processing visual stimuli, and that this is retained 42% more when the content is animated.