Volunteer Terms & Conditions

1. Introduction

These Volunteer Terms and Conditions ("Terms") govern your participation as a volunteer with Bay Tides ("Organization," "we," "us," or "our"). By registering as a volunteer, you agree to be bound by these Terms.

Bay Tides is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting and restoring the San Francisco Bay through education, community mobilization, and innovative technology.

2. Volunteer Status

As a volunteer, you understand and agree that:

• You are providing services voluntarily and without expectation of compensation, employment, or any form of remuneration.
• You are not an employee, contractor, or agent of Bay Tides for any purpose.
• You are not entitled to any employee benefits, including but not limited to health insurance, workers' compensation, unemployment insurance, or retirement benefits.
• Your volunteer status may be terminated at any time by either party without notice or cause.

4. Code of Conduct

As a representative of Bay Tides, you agree to conduct yourself in a professional and respectful manner at all times. This includes:

4.1 Respect for Others

• Treat all staff, board members, fellow volunteers, partners, and members of the public with courtesy, dignity, and respect.
• Refrain from harassment, discrimination, or intimidation of any kind based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic.
• Maintain a welcoming and inclusive environment for all participants.

4.2 Professional Conduct

• Follow all instructions and guidance provided by Bay Tides staff and event leaders.
• Arrive on time for scheduled volunteer activities and notify us promptly if you cannot attend.
• Perform assigned tasks to the best of your ability and ask for help when needed.
• Report any accidents, injuries, unsafe conditions, or concerns to Bay Tides staff immediately.

4.3 Representing the Organization

• Remember that as a volunteer, you represent Bay Tides to the public.
• Do not make statements or commitments on behalf of Bay Tides unless specifically authorized to do so.
• Direct media inquiries and interview requests to Bay Tides staff.

5. Safety Requirements

Your safety is our priority. You agree to:

• Follow all safety instructions and use required protective equipment provided for volunteer activities.
• Notify Bay Tides staff of any medical conditions, allergies, or physical limitations that may affect your ability to safely participate in activities.
• Not participate in activities while under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs.
• Report any hazardous conditions or safety concerns immediately to Bay Tides staff.
• Follow all applicable laws and regulations while volunteering.

6. Confidentiality

During your volunteer service, you may have access to confidential information about Bay Tides, its donors, members, or partners. You agree to:

• Keep all confidential information private and not disclose it to third parties.
• Use confidential information only for legitimate Bay Tides purposes.
• Return or destroy any confidential materials upon request or when your volunteer service ends.

7. Use of Organization Resources

Any equipment, supplies, or resources provided by Bay Tides are for organizational use only. You agree to:

• Use Bay Tides resources responsibly and only for approved purposes.
• Return all equipment and materials in good condition at the end of each volunteer session or upon request.
• Report any damage, loss, or malfunction of equipment immediately.

8. Termination of Volunteer Status

Bay Tides reserves the right to terminate your volunteer status at any time, with or without cause, and with or without notice. Reasons for termination may include, but are not limited to:

• Violation of these Terms or the Code of Conduct
• Failure to follow safety requirements or instructions
• Conduct that is detrimental to the organization, its mission, or its reputation
• Harassment or discrimination against others
• Unauthorized disclosure of confidential information

9. Minors

Volunteers under the age of 18 must have a parent or legal guardian sign the volunteer registration form and liability waiver on their behalf. Minors under 16 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian during all volunteer activities.

10. Changes to Terms

Bay Tides reserves the right to modify these Terms at any time. We will notify active volunteers of significant changes via email. Continued participation in volunteer activities after changes are posted constitutes acceptance of the modified Terms.

11. Governing Law

These Terms shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of California, without regard to conflict of law principles.

12. Contact Information

If you have questions about these Terms, please contact us:

Bay Tides
Email: volunteer@baytides.org
Website: baytides.org