Volunteer registration
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Contents |
Overview
AFS-USA has a responsibility to provide an organizational structure for volunteers who contribute to the efforts of AFS-USA. Orientation, training, support, guidance and development are all provided as required by the US Department of State.
As an organization we believe that we need to hold in highest regard our quality standards, and maintain a good reputation. Conscious that we operate in an environment where we are required to manage risks, AFS-USA believes that it is critical that we demonstrate that we take reasonable actions:
- to see to the protection, safety and well-being of our program participants (primarily young people)
- to provide our volunteers with the necessary support and guidance as the role demands.
In so doing, this provides you, as a volunteer, as well as AFS-USA, an organizational safety net.
The next sections describe the registration process and the implications of registering as an AFS volunteer. If you are ready to get started with registration, you can do so at this link: AFS-USA Volunteer Link
Steps to Register
In order to meet these standards, the registration process to become an AFS-USA volunteer includes the following:
- Completion of an online volunteer application which includes acceptance of the Volunteer Agreement, the Volunteer Policy, and listing at least three references (two are required).
Once the application is submitted and a volunteer registration staff accepts it:
- Email is sent to the references requesting they fill out the volunteer reference forms
- Email is sent to applicant to complete the criminal background check
See Also: Volunteer Re-Registration
Implications of registering
AFS-USA respects your privacy and only staff employed to manage your volunteer registration will have access to your information. Some information may be disclosed to relevant third parties in order to process your application. Once you have been approved to volunteer, some information that will be relevant for you to perform your role will be shared with AFS-USA staff and volunteers.
Completing an application for volunteer registration does not mean that you have been accepted. AFS-USA has the right to determine the suitability of each applicant.
As a registered AFS-USA volunteer, this means that you:
- are covered by AFS insurance polices when performing your voluntary role
- meet state and federal laws relating to AFS-USA registration
- meet any other relevant requirements in working with and supporting young people
- will be supported in your AFS-USA volunteer role
- will have access to Global Link.
I've registered. Now what?
- Look through the many local and Area Team positions, and select a few roles that are of interest to you.
- Contact your local area team Volunteer Coordinator or AT Chair and notify them of your availability.
- Request an assignment that suits your interests, but expect that the area volunteers will probably like for you to start with some roles with smaller scope while they get to know you.
- Remember to follow the volunteer guidelines.
Staff Contact Information
- Phone: 1-800-AFS-INFO ext. 3
- Fax: 1-503-961-8383
- Email: vol.reg@afs.org
- Snail mail:
- Volunteer Registration
- AFS Intercultural Programs/USA
- 506 SW 6th Ave Floor 2
- Portland OR 97204/1523
