AFS-USA Ombuds Council Applications Now Being Accepted!

From AFSWiki

AFS-USA has extended the application deadline for the inaugural members of our new Ombuds Council (OC). The two volunteers and one staff person on the Ombuds Council will work with AFS staff and volunteers seeking to resolve conflicts professionally and in the best interest of the organization, in the context of AFS-USA's Volunteer Management Policy. Initially, the OC will be charged with volunteer appeals, with the intention of developing into a means for resolving conflicts between volunteers, as well as volunteers and staff.

If you are the kind of person who likes to problem solve, is diplomatic, or has a personal or professional interest in conflict resolution, then we may be looking for you.

The National Volunteer Development Advisory Group is now seeking applications from volunteers with a wide range of AFS experiences. Candidates will be selected from applicants that are not currently serving as a team or chapter chair. Those selected will be required to commit to serving three years on the Council and volunteering from a few hours a month to what may be up to 20 hours, as the OC develops.

Additionally, the two selected volunteer candidates and the selected staff member will be required to attend Ombudsman 101 training in Summer or Fall of 2011. Note: AFS-USA will pay conference fees and travel expenses for the training. This training will consist of two and a half days of in-person workshops that include formal presentations as well as interactive sessions.

So if you have been looking for a new opportunity to develop your mediation skills while serving the AFS community, please submit the attached application and references to vdag@afsusa.org by Monday, May 30, 2011. Any questions about the Ombuds Council can also be directed to vdag@afsusa.org.