Community Volunteering / Integration

Community Integration & Volunteer Training Program

VOLUNTEERING GUIDELINES

IDEAL PROGRAM SERVICES CORE VALUE:  At Ideal we believe work is a meaningful engagement for everyone especially adults regardless of physical/emotional capabilities.  We believe when barriers that deny opportunities are removed the desire to participate in such engagement whether paid or a volunteer setting will enhance self esteem, promote choice and decision making.  Based on expressed interest, we recognize that in spite of limited ability, our Consumers/Trainees are not exempted from desiring this core value system like anyone else.  In fact, to them it is a measure of absolute independence and respect.  Therefore, it is our goal to provide a range of volunteer experiences where different work readiness tasks can be mastered without intimidation of failure or job loss.

Goal:

Increase community integration through field skill training & volunteerism, thereby fostering equal opportunity and promoting diversity.

Objective:

Exploration of different work interest based on level of ability and personal goal.

Desired Outcome:

Various but includes (i) independence, (ii) work adjustment attitude, (iii) mastered task analysis, (iv) fine and gross motor skills development, (v) improved communication, (vi) improved social skills, (vii)improved decision making skill, (viii) improved object recognition/vocabulary, etc.

Position / Expectation Summary:

• This job description will be exercised both on and off site of Ideal Program Services office.
•  Each Consumer will be addressed as a Trainee or Volunteer.  It is not a paid position by the work-site management offices but it is an opportunity to gain work experience in a friendly environment. 
• At all times, the safety and welfare of each Consumer/Trainee is our concern, therefore you may be required to use or operate any of the following equipments; safety vests, safety gloves, brooms, rakes, cherry pickers, and cleaning solutions.
• Some work sites may require that the volunteer wears the Ideal Program Services name badge for easy identification.  
•  Transportation to and from work site will be provided by Ideal Program Services.
• Food and drinks will also be provided by Ideal Program Services

Reports to:

Work site Supervisor and/or Ideal Program Direct Support Staff

Time Commitment:

Minimum of two days per week (M-F) for 1-3 hours (10-1pm).

Qualifications:

Self-determination to participate, pleasant manner, patience, cooperation.

Support:

Both classroom instruction and on-the-job training will be provided for each position by Ideal Program Support Staff. In addition, the Director of Trainee Services and Supervisors will assist with task analysis information prior to visiting the work sites.

Age Requirement:

18+

Dress Code:

Casual and Comfortable shoes, no slippers, no sandals or open toe shoes.

Physical Requirements:

• Able to sit and stand as needed
• Able to get in and out of vans as needed
• Able to identify numbers and dates ( for certain placement)
• Able to bend, squat, stretch, twist or reach out with body, arms and legs (when needed)
• Able to perform other duties assigned

Factors that affect successful transition:

1. Self-determination to participate
2. Physical stamina
3. Continued interest and personal motivation (sense of self worth)
4. Desire for social interaction (satisfaction)
5. Personal hygiene (feeling confident and inclusive)
6. Safety awareness
7. Task oriented behavior adjustment
8. Consistent attendance
9. Improved communication skills
10. Improved character traits
11. Cordial relationship with co-workers and supervisors
12. Work ethics adaptation