Volunteers at Inn Out of the Cold share a responsibility to ensure that the organization is successful in meeting its stated goals and objectives. To this end, volunteers are expected to observe the following code of conduct:

1. Volunteers will conduct themselves in a manner consistent with their role as a positive ambassador and representative of The INN.
2. Volunteers will respect the privacy and dignity of all guests, staff and other volunteers.
3. Volunteers are expected to be courteous and professional to guests, staff and other volunteers at the shelter.
4. Volunteers must never disclose confidential information unless authorized to do so. If there is any doubt regarding the confidentiality of any information obtained while working at the shelter, the volunteer shall consult with the Volunteer Coordinator or management to clarify the situation. In general, all information obtained while working at the shelter should be treated as confidential unless stated so otherwise.
5. Any information obtained that causes concern to the volunteer regarding the safety and well-being of themselves or others, must be shared with management or the on-duty staff.
6. If a volunteer has any complaints regarding the operation of the shelter, they are encouraged to share them with management, on duty staff and/or the Executive Director, who will propose a resolution. If the volunteer is unsatisfied with the result, the complaint may be brought to the attention of the Board of Directors, who will either agree with the proposed resolution or offer an alternative solution. The Board’s decision will be final, with no possibility of appeal.
7. Volunteers will not share any personal information with guests or enter into any sort of personal relationship with them. Guests are at the shelter because of serious issues in their lives and it is inappropriate for volunteers to go beyond the duties of their voluntary position.
8. Volunteers are asked to discuss problems, issues or concerns with leadership/Management.
9. Volunteers will not make public statements regarding the organization without authorization from the Program Director or the Board of Directors.
10. Volunteers can expect to be treated with dignity and respect by the guests, by other volunteers and staff of the organization.
11. Volunteers are expected to read the Volunteer Handbook prior to starting their first shift. This must be acknowledged and signed by management.

The maintenance of confidentiality is a key requirement of staff, volunteers, students, community partners and contracted workers, working or visiting The INN. The purpose of confidentiality is to safeguard information about our guests, volunteers, staff, students, and other individuals associated with the shelter. Any personally identifying information about any persons involved with The Inn is considered to be confidential information. Confidential information cannot be released without the express consent of the individual, except when the individual’s (or others’) health or safety is at immediate and severe risk. In such cases, the information should be shared with the Executive Director or Program Manager.

Any information that is obtained while working /volunteering at the Inn that is not public knowledge but obtained through a person’s role at the Inn, is subject to confidentiality and must not be shared in any way (verbally, electronically, print). Staff/volunteers/students are not permitted to represent the Inn or share any information or opinions obtained during their duties, on personal Facebook/Social media pages/groups/posts. Only individuals authorized by the Executive Director may speak for the Inn on any matters, verbally, electronically or in print. Posts from designated Inn representatives on social media are to be related to events and donations and items of public interest related to homelessness or community events and fundraisers. They must remain free from any personal opinions or comments that are not of a positive and professional nature. Comments that mention other service providers or individuals are not permitted without prior consent of those named. Any comments or posts from others that are concerning or potentially destructive to the Inn’s reputation must be reported immediately to the Executive Director for action.

The unauthorized access to, modification, deletion or disclosure of information may compromise the integrity of The INN or otherwise violate individual rights of privacy. Distribution and/or reproduction of any record or information outside the intended and approved use is strictly prohibited and is contrary to the Privacy Act. (PIPEDA – available at www.privcom.gc.ca)