Individuals who are cheerful and discreet listeners are professional volunteer potential.

REQUIREMENTS AND CODE FOR A SUCCESSFUL VOLUNTEER

• As a volunteer, I realize that I am subject to a code of ethics, similar to that which binds the professional. Like professionals, in assuming certain responsibilities, I expect to be accountable for those responsibilities. I will keep confidential matters confidential.

• As a volunteer, I agree to serve without pay but with the same high standards as expected of the paid staff.

• I promise to approach my work with an open-minded attitude, a willingness to be trained, and a high level of interest and attention.

• I believe that my attitude toward volunteer work should be professional. I believe that I have an obligation to my work, to those who direct it, to my colleagues, to those for whom it is done, and to the community.

• Being eager to contribute all that I can be human betterment, I accept this code for the volunteer as my code, to be followed carefully and cheerfully.
   

1. A volunteer must be able to look past the illness or disability of the resident/client and to accept them.

2. It is important to be able to offer the gift of unhurried time. During the time of your visit, you must be unaffected by time and pressure.

3. It is important to be able to share yourself. Your best assets are your own person and experience. Willingness to share these is essential to establish a bridge between the resident/client's world and yours.

4. It is important to have a sense of humor, laughter is so important to our residents/clients; they respond to humor easily.

5. Being able to work with the staff is very important, since they count on your support and cooperation.