get involved - Volunteerism

How to Volunteer

Lupus Canada is a national association of regional non-profit organizations of volunteers dedicated to supporting people whose lives are affected by lupus. Volunteers are the heart and soul of the lupus movement and participate in many activities, events and committees. We welcome new volunteers to get involved with us. Work together, grow together – volunteer

• Statement on Volunteerism
  
  
  • Definition of Volunteer
  • Our Commitment to Volunteerism
  • Lupus Canada Believes
    
    
• Values for Lupus Canada Volunteer Involvement
  
  
  • Volunteer involvement is vital to a just and democratic society.
    
  • It fosters civic responsibility, participation and interaction.
    
  • Volunteer involvement strengthens communities.
    
  • It promotes change and development by identifying and responding to community needs.
  • Volunteer involvement mutually benefits both the volunteer and the organization.
    
  • It increases the capacity for organizations to accomplish their goals, and provides
  • volunteers with opportunities to develop and contribute.
    
  • Volunteer involvement is based on relationships.
    
  • Volunteers are expected to act with integrity and be respectful and responsive to
  • others with whom they interact
    
    
• Guiding Principles for Volunteer Involvement
  
  
  • Voluntary organizations recognize that volunteers are a vital human resource and will commit to the appropriate infrastructure to support volunteers.
    
  • The organization’s practices ensure effective volunteer involvement. The organization commits to providing a safe and supportive environment for volunteers.
    
  • Volunteers make a commitment and are accountable to the organization.
    
  • Volunteers will act with respect for beneficiaries and community.
    
  • Volunteers will act responsibly and with integrit
    
    
• Organizational Standards for Volunteer Involvement
  
  
  • The board of directors and senior management acknowledge and support the vital role of volunteers in achieving the organization’s purpose or mission.
    
  • Policies and procedures are adopted by the organization to provide a framework that defines and supports the involvement of volunteers.
    
  • A qualified person is designated to be responsible for the volunteer program.
    
  • A clearly communicated screening process is consistently applied.
    
  • Volunteer assignments address the purpose of the organization and involve volunteers in meaningful ways-reflecting their various abilities, needs and backgrounds.
    
  • Volunteer recruitment and selection reaches out to diverse sources of volunteers.
    
  • Volunteers receive an orientation to the organization, its policies and procedures,
    
  • And receive training for their volunteer assignment.
    
  • Volunteers receive appropriate levels of supervision according to their task and are given regular opportunities to receive and give feedback.
    
  • Volunteers are welcomed and treated as valuable and integral members of the organization’s human resources.
    
  • The contributions of volunteers are regularly acknowledged with formal and informal recognition methods.
    
    
• Volunteer Rights and Responsibilities

Lupus Canada volunteers have the following rights and responsibilities:

VOLUNTEER RIGHTS:

• Receive adequate information and a clear job description
  
• Be offered a suitable project, task or job
  
• Have access to clarity of direction and/or direct supervision
  
• Receive respect and support
  
• Receive recognition and feedback
  
• Be reimbursed for approved out of pocket expenses
  
• Provide feedback regarding their volunteer role
  
• Have personal information kept confidential
  
• Work in a safe and healthy environment
  

VOLUNTEER RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Be reliable and responsible
  
• Consult with their committee chair and/or supervisor when necessary
  
• Ask for support when needed
  
• Participate in required learning opportunities
  
• Support and abide by Lupus Canada’s policies
  
• Appreciate and respect the confidential nature of information that may be acquired in the course of duties
  
• Show enthusiasm, loyalty and belief in the work of Lupus Canada
  
• Agree to work in a safe and healthy way and not jeopardize the health and safety of self and others
  
• Inform Lupus Canada of any medical condition or special needs that may affect the volunteer’s ability to undertake certain task
  

Volunteer Application Form – click here to download form

Volunteers Needed Now!

Lupus Quebec is seeking volunteers to help with help with a variety of lupus educational events, fundraising activities and outreach.  If you are interested in joining Lupus Quebec, call 1-800-661-1468 or email us at info@lupuscanada.org 
Lupus New Brunswick is seeking volunteers to help with a variety of lupus educational events, fundraising activities and outreach. If you are interested in joining Lupus New Brunswick, call    1-877-303-8080 or 506-384-6227 or email us at lupins@rogers.com     

Lupus Canada is stronger because of you. Thank you!