Volunteers are an essential part of the WSL community, and we value their commitment and contributions. The Volunteer Services Committee, consisting of a board member and select WSL members, oversees our volunteer program. We continuously adapt this program based on member feedback and the skills and enthusiasm of our volunteers.
Any adult resident of the Greater Westport community is eligible to become a volunteer, and we also welcome youth volunteers aged 10-18 with parental permission.
OUR VOLUNTEER PROGRAM AIMS TO:
- Support WSL's mission by providing high-quality and effective services to our members
- Ensure that volunteers have a rewarding and positive experience
- Foster connections between our members and volunteers to strengthen our community
- Leverage the unique talents, skills, and experiences of our volunteers to enhance our services
- Recognize and appreciate the valuable time, talent, and commitment offered by our volunteers
BENEFITS FOR VOLUNTEERS:
- Flexible voluntary assignments that can accommodate your schedule
- Meaningful opportunities to support and assist your neighbors
- Ongoing training and regular updates to keep you informed
- General liability and accident insurance coverage
- Website support whenever you need it
To become a volunteer, please complete the application form found in this handbook (page 7) or on the WSL website. Once your application is processed, a member of the Volunteer Services Committee will reach out to you to arrange a training session. During the training, we will cover various topics, including how to use the website for service requests.
As part of the application process, we require a background check every four years. Additionally, volunteer drivers will need to undergo an annual Motor Vehicle Record check.
For a comprehensive overview of volunteer service opportunities, please refer to the VOLUNTEER SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES. Our services are typically expected to be completed within two hours or less and encompass transportation(may be more hours), comfort and support, household assistance, technology assistance, and planning and governance.
Thank you for considering volunteering with WSL. Your dedication will undoubtedly make a positive impact on our community.
FAQs:
- What is WSL? It is a community that promotes enriched, vibrant, and independent lives.
- How much time will I need to commit? Most tasks require two hours or less.
- Can I decline a request? Yes, if you don't feel comfortable or qualified, you can politely decline.
- Who do I report to? You will report to a Volunteer Committee Co-Chair or the Administrative Manager.
- Do I use my own equipment? You will use your own car for transportation, and homeowners usually provide necessary equipment like ladders or garden tools.
- Who supplies materials? Members requesting services are responsible for providing any required materials.
- How are volunteer requests handled? Members can submit requests on the WSL website or contact the office. Volunteers can view requests on the website and will receive email notifications for each task.
- How long is the volunteer orientation session? Typically, the orientation lasts about ninety minutes.
- Who can volunteer? Anyone 18 years or older can apply, while younger students may apply with parental permission and supervision.
- Why should I volunteer? Volunteering with WSL gives you the opportunity to meet your neighbors, share your skills and interests, and improve the quality of life for fellow members.
- What types of services does WSL offer? WSL offers a variety of services, including friendly visits, meals, household tasks, technology assistance, and transportation. For more details, refer to page 4.
WSL VOLUNTEER CODE OF ETHICS:
As a volunteer, you are expected to uphold the following code of ethics:
- Maintain the confidentiality of WSL members at all times.
- Respect members' privacy, cultural, religious, and political views.
- Receive assignments from WSL directly, not from members.
- Perform only the requested service during each assignment. Minor requests may be performed at the volunteer's discretion.
- Refrain from offering professional advice to members.
- Decline any form of payment for volunteer assignments or thereafter.
- Immediately contact WSL if you have concerns regarding the health or safety of a member.
We hope this information helps you find the volunteer opportunity that suits you best.
Westport Senior Living Volunteer Application
Thank you for your interest in volunteering with WSL. To apply, please complete the APPLICATION FORM.
This application may be directly downloaded from our website.