In any Non-profit organization there are three types of volunteers:
Naturally, people may combine roles and wear more than one hat. Since over 80% of all literacy volunteers are involved in tutoring (“The Economic Value of Volunteers”, Community Literacy of Ontario, 1997), volunteer tutors are the primary focus in this section.As a significant resource in the functioning of the agency, volunteer tutors require unique administrative policies. Consider the expectations you place upon the tutor, and then analyse the requirements and risks that go with the position.
You could start with an analysis of your policy positions. For example, decide whether your agency will evaluate the performance of volunteer workers. Is it feasible to supervise and monitor tutors within the one-to-one off-site environment? Would it scare off possible volunteers? Would volunteer performance reviews serve to recognize the serious nature of the work being done? What evaluation approaches might work in your particular agency? (Peer review? Self evaluation? Assessment of tutor’s written lesson plans? Observation of Tutor-Learner meeting?)
Next move from broader policies (what to do) to detailed procedures and practices (how to). Consider issues such as the following. Can volunteers move from one volunteer assignment to another? Are they all recruited, screened and trained in the same way? Are there specific times of year for volunteer intake? Do you have a limit to the number of volunteers that can be managed by your program at any given time? Is there a required time commitment expected of each volunteer? Is it set out in writing? Can volunteers expect a written letter of recommendation upon completion of service? The important thing is to capture in writing how things work in your agency. This will uphold consistency, fairness and accountability.