VOLUNTEER HANDBOOK
Welcome Volunteers
We are so grateful and excited to welcome you as a volunteer for the inaugral Sundar Prize Film Festival coming to Surrey this April 10-13th. Our volunteers are a very important piece of the Sundar Prize Film Festival family!
We want you to feel appreciated and that the work you do is invaluable to us.
On behalf of the staff and our audience members, I’d like to thank you very much for your valuable energy, time, and enthusiasm.
Sincerely,
Sidartha Murjani
Executive Director and Senior Programmer
Susan Ruzic
Social Justice Advisor and Volunteer Coordinator
Volunteering 101.
As a Volunteer, you are the ambassadors of the Sundar Prize Film Festival.
As a Volunteer, you represent the Sundar Prize Film Festival, this means that on shift or watching films, we expect all Volunteers to maintain a professional and friendly demeanor supporting the organization.
Commitment
Volunteers are expected to abide by the Volunteer Code of Ethics and Policies provided here in the Volunteer Handbook. All Volunteers should expect to work hard, have fun and make friends!
Confidentiality
Volunteers are not to disclose any information acquired while volunteering, whether written or verbal and including social media, to any persons, authorities or organizations, including the press unless specifically instructed to do so by their supervisor, or unless required by a legal order. This information includes but is not limited to funding sources and staff, Volunteer, client, and film contacts. We do encourage you, however, to share your favorite films playing at the Sundar Prize Film Festival.
Appropriate and Inclusive Behavior
Sundar Prize Film Festival cultivates a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere for our Volunteers, staff, and patrons. We have zero tolerance for abuse.
If a volunteer’s behavior is abusive – whether it be to another Volunteer, a staff member or customer – they will no longer be able to Volunteer. This includes jokes, negative statements or attitudes regarding race, sexual orientation, gender or any other attribute that make us a part of this amazing diverse society.
Uninvited body contact, regardless of how well intended it may be, could be interpreted as a violation of personal space. Everyone deserves to be comfortable and feel safe.
As a volunteer, you are entitled to these same protections. If you feel uncomfortable with or threatened by any situation please talk to your supervisor or other management.
Volunteer Code of Conduct
1 Volunteers will make every effort to present Sundar Prize Film Festival to the public in a positive way and to not do anything to intentionally embarrass or malign the organization.
2 Volunteers will treat other Volunteers, guests, staff, and the public with respect at all times. If a problem arises, resolution should be directed to management
3 There is no tolerance for use/consumption of illegal or controlled substances by any Volunteer while on duty.
4 Volunteers will make every effort to fulfill responsibilities of team membership including team duties and fulfilment of shifts.
5 Volunteers will not use any property or monies belonging to Sundar Prize Film Festival to their own advantage.
Volunteer Shifts
Punctuality
It is very important that Volunteers show up to their shifts on time. If you are going to be late, please email your supervisor to let them know.
No-Shows
We really appreciate the time you dedicate to the Sundar Prize Film Festival and it is imperative you attend all of your shifts as we are counting on you! If you have an emergency, please contact us as soon as possible.
Breaks
We want you to have your breaks! Please be sure to check in with your supervisor before taking them.
Dress Code and Professional Appearance
We encourage Volunteers to dress comfortably while at the same time remaining professional. Volunteers must wear their Volunteer T-shirt while on duty. You will receive this at your orientation.
Personal Belongings
Your team will provide a place to leave your belongings. Please do not bring excessive or expensive items with you. We will not be able to store large items and will not be responsible for anything lost or stolen, so plan appropriately.
Cell Phones
Unless your cellphone is required for your Volunteer position, please put it away on shift. You are welcome to use it while on break. If there is an emergency that requires you keep your cellphone active on shift, please let your supervisor know.
Work Place Safety
We are committed to providing a safe environment for our Volunteers. If you ever feel like your health or safety is at risk, please talk to your supervisor immediately. Emergency procedures will be covered at your orientation. If you require medication, please be sure to bring it with you and let your supervisor know if you have any complications or concerns.
