This Release and Waiver of Liability (the “Release”) is executed in favor
of Yakima Valley Partners Habitat for Humanity and Habitat for Humanity International, Inc.
and any other Habitat for Humanity and their respective affiliates, directors, officers, trustees,
employees, sponsors, donors, volunteers and agents (collectively, the “Released Parties”).
I, the Volunteer, desire to work as a volunteer for one or more of the Released Parties without
compensation and engage in the activities related to being a volunteer. I understand that my
activities may include but are not limited to the following: working at Habitat for Humanity offices
and worksites; working in or for Habitat for Humanity Store operations; loading and
unloading materials; traveling to and from work sites, towns, cities or countries; consuming food
available or provided; living in housing provided for volunteers; assisting in disaster
relief areas; constructing, repairing, and rehabilitating residential buildings; other
construction-related activities; and other in-person and/or on-line volunteer activities ("Activities").
I, the Volunteer, understand that my Activities may include work that may be hazardous
to me, including, but not limited to, exposure to lead, asbestos and mold, which may cause
or worsen certain illnesses, especially if I do not wear protective equipment, am exposed
for extended periods of time, or have a pre-existing immune system deficiency.
I also understand there is some inherent risk in consuming local foods and living
in local accommodations in the city(ies) or country(ies) visited. I further understand I may
be traveling to and from locations where there is a risk of terrorism, war,
insurrection, criminal activities, instability, inclement weather or other circumstances that could
threaten my health or safety. I also understand that it is the policy of the Released Parties
not to pay ransom or make any other payments to secure the release of hostages
I, the Volunteer, further confirm that prior to engaging in the Activities, I may be required to complete
a COVID-19 health screening questionnaire provided by one or more of the Released Parties. I
agree that I will answer all questions on the questionnaire truthfully. I agree to not participate in any
Activities if, at such time and to the best of my knowledge, I am a carrier of COVID-19 or infected
with COVID-19. I further agree to follow all safety precautions outlined by any Released Party while
volunteering.
I, the Volunteer, hereby freely, voluntarily and without duress execute this Release under the
following terms:
Release and Waiver
I, the Volunteer, acknowledge and understand that participation in the
Activities may involve certain risks, including, but not limited to, personal injury(ies), bodily injury,
illness, permanent disability, property damage, loss and/or death (“Risks”). These Risks include,
but are not limited to, exposure to and/or infection with COVID-19 and/or other viruses and/or
bacterial infection even in ideal conditions, and despite any and all reasonable efforts made to
mitigate such Risks. I further acknowledge and agree that, due to the nature of the Activities,
social distancing of six feet per person will not always be possible and that my participation in the
Activities may result in an elevated risk of contracting COVID-19
and/or other viruses and/or bacterial infection.
In consideration of and in order to be allowed to participate in the Activities, I do hereby release and
forever discharge and hold harmless the Released Parties and their successors and
assigns from any and all liability, claims, demands, costs and damages of any kind, whether
arising from tort, contract or otherwise, which I or my heirs, assigns, next of kin or legal
representatives may have or which may hereinafter accrue, arise from, or are in any way related to
my Activities with any of the Released Parties, including but not limited to Risks, whether
caused wholly or in part by the simple negligence, fault or other misconduct of any of the
Released Parties or of other volunteers, other than their intentional or grossly negligent
conduct. In addition, the Released Parties shall have the benefit of any future liability protection for
businesses as relating to the COVID-19 pandemic passed by any governmental entity to which
the Released Parties are subject.
I understand and acknowledge that by signing this Release I knowingly assume the Risks
associated with the Activities. I also understand that the Released Parties do not assume any
responsibility for or obligation to provide financial assistance or other assistance, including but not
limited to medical, health or disability insurance in the event of injury, illness, death or
property damage. Regarding any illness or virus, including COVID-19, I, the Volunteer,
understand that even if I follow all guidelines for the prevention and handling of any illness or
virus, including COVID-19, there is still a risk that Volunteer could contract such virus or illness.
I understand and acknowledge that children under the age of 16 are not allowed on Habitat for
Humanity worksites while construction is in progress. While minors between the ages of 16 and
18 may be allowed to participate in some types of build site activities, solely as outlined by the
Released Parties, I understand that using power tools, excavation, demolition, working on
rooftops and similar activities are not permitted for anyone under the age of 18. I agree it is my
responsibility to communicate these requirements to any of my minor children who will attend
and/or participate in the Activities.
Consent to Transportation and Medical Treatment
I consent to the use of first aid treatment and the use of generic and over-the-counter medications and treatments as
directed by manufacturer labels, whether administered by the Released Parties or first aid
personnel. In an emergency, I understand the Released Parties may try to contact the
individual listed below as an emergency contact. If an emergency contact cannot be reached
promptly, I hereby authorize the Released Parties to act as an agent for me to consent to any
examination, testing, x-rays, medical, dental or surgical treatment for me as advised by a
physician, dentist or other health care provider. This includes, but is not limited to, my
assessment, evaluation, medical care and treatment, anesthesia, hospitalization, or other
health care treatment or procedure as advised by a physician, dentist or other health care
provider. I also authorize the Released Parties to arrange for transportation of me as deemed
necessary and appropriate in their discretion. I, the Volunteer, do hereby release, forever
discharge and hold harmless the Released Parties from any liability, claim, demand, and
action whatsoever brought by me or on my behalf which arises or may hereafter arise on
account of any transportation, first aid, assessment, care, treatment, response or service
rendered in connection with my Activities with any of the Released Parties.
If the Volunteer is less than 18 years of age, the parent(s) having legal custody and/or the legal
guardian(s) of the Volunteer also hereby release, forever discharge and hold harmless the
Released Parties from any liability, claim, demand and action whatsoever brought by such
volunteer or on his/her behalf which arises or may hereafter arise on account of the decision by
any representative or agent of the Released Parties to exercise the power to transport,
administer first aid, and consent to assessment, examination, x-rays, medical, dental, surgical or
other such health care treatment as set forth in the Parental Authorization for Treatment of, and
Travel With, a Minor Child.
Insurance. I understand that, except as otherwise agreed to by the Released Parties in writing,
the Released Parties are under no obligation to provide, carry or maintain
health, medical, travel, disability or other insurance coverage for any Volunteer.
Each Volunteer is expected and encouraged to obtain his or her own health,
medical, travel, disability or other insurance coverage.
I understand that I am and remain responsible for payment of
such hospital, physician, ambulance, dental, medical or other services obtained for me
or my child. I agree that the Released Parties do not assume any responsibility for the
payment of such fees or expenses which may be incurred. If I have health insurance, I
understand my personal health insurance is my primary coverage.
Confidentiality. I agree that in the course of my participation in the Activities, I may have access to
personal and/or health care information of other persons. I agree
to maintain the confidentiality of such information, to use such information only as necessary
to do my job as a volunteer, and to comply with Habitat for applicable policies regarding
such information.
Photographic/Recording Release
I hereby grant and convey unto the
Released Parties all right, title and interest in any and all photographs and video/
audio/electronic recordings of me, including as to my name, image and voice, made by or on
behalf of any of the Released Parties during my Activities with the Released Parties,
including, but not limited to, the right to use such materials for any purpose and to any
royalties, proceeds or other benefits derived from them. I understand that I will not have
any ownership interest in or to such photographs, images and/or recordings, I have not
been provided or promised any compensation to me, and I hereby waive any rights,
privileges or claims based on any right of publicity, privacy, ownership or any
other rights arising, relating to or resulting from the photographs, images and/
or recordings. I understand and agree that this paragraph also applies to my minor
child(ren) who are volunteering.
Other
I expressly agree that this Release is intended to be as broad and inclusive as permitted by
state law. I further agree that in the event any clause or provision of this
Release is held invalid by any court of competent jurisdiction, the invalidity of such
clause or provision shall not otherwise affect the remaining clauses or provisions of
this Release, which shall continue to be enforceable. Further, a waiver of a right under this
Release by a Released Party does not prevent the exercise of any other right.
I have carefully considered my decision, the benefits and risks
involved, and hereby give my informed consent to participate in all volunteer
Activities. I have read and understand this Release and Waiver of Liability, I
acknowledge that any questions of mine have been answered, and I voluntarily
agree to the above provisions. It is my intent to bind my heirs, next of kin, assigns and
legal representative.
I have carefully considered my decision, the benefits and risks involved, and hereby give my
informed consent to participate in all volunteer Activities. I have read and understand this
Release and Waiver of Liability, I acknowledge that any questions of mine have been
answered, and I voluntarily agree to the above provisions. It is my intent to bind my heirs,
next of kin, assigns and legal representative.
IMPORTANT: If the Volunteer is less than 18 years of age, all parents or guardians
must complete the signature section below. If only one parent or guardian signs
these forms on behalf of a Volunteer who is under 18 years of age, then the undersigned
parent or guardian of the Volunteer hereby covenants, warrants, represents and agrees
that he or she is executing these forms on behalf of, and as an agent for, any other
individual who may be a parent or guardian of the Volunteer, that he/she is fully
authorized to do so, and that by executing such Release and Parental Authorization,
the undersigned is binding himself/herself, the Volunteer, and any other parent or
guardian of the Volunteer, and all of their heirs, next of kin, assigns, and legal
representatives to such Release and Parental Authorization.
SIGNATURE OF PARENT/GUARDIAN SIGNING ON BEHALF OF THE ABOVE MINOR:
I have carefully considered my decision, the benefits and risks involved and hereby give
my informed consent, on behalf of the above listed minor child, for him/her to participate in
all Activities as set forth in the above Volunteer Agreement, Release and Waiver of Liability,
and such terms are incorporated herein. I have read and understand the above
Volunteer Agreement, Release and Waiver of Liability, any questions of mine have been
answered, and I voluntarily agree to all such provisions. It is my intent to bind my and the minor
Volunteer's heirs, next of kin, assigns, and legal representatives. Furthermore, I understand
that the above Volunteer Agreement, Release and Waiver of Liability is made on
behalf of my minor child(ren) and/or legal wards and I represent and warrant to
Habitat for Humanity International, Inc. or its affiliated organizations that I have the full
authority to sign this on behalf of such minor(s).
1.0 PURPOSE
As a ministry, Yakima Valley Partners Habitat for Humanity values the safety of children, our
employees, volunteers and the families we serve. We want to take prudent measures to protect
our human and material resources
2.0 POLICY
Yakima Valley Partners Habitat for Humanity requires that criminal background checks be
conducted for all potential partner families, board members, employees and key volunteers, and,
those who may have unsupervised contact with a child, the elderly or persons with disabilities.
Yakima Valley Partners Habitat for Humanity reserves the right to recheck criminal backgrounds at
any time during the homebuilding process, course of employment and/or service.
Any person who does not consent to a criminal background check will not be permitted to
become a partner family, work and/or volunteer with Yakima Valley Partners Habitat for
Humanity.
2.1 DISQUALIFICATION CRITERIA
A previous conviction may disqualify an applicant from homeownership, employment, or board
members and volunteers from service with Yakima Valley Partners Habitat for Humanity. In
determining eligibility, Yakima Valley Partners Habitat for Humanity, in its sole discretion, may
consider several factors, including, without limitation, the:
• Nature, duties and responsibilities of the position;
• Nature of the conviction and whether children were involved;
• Time elapsed since the offense;
• Extent to which the offense may affect the person’s fitness or ability to perform the
duties or responsibilities of the position;
• Age of the candidate when the illegal activity occurred;
• Number of convictions (if more than one);
• Any information produced by the person, or produced on the person’s behalf
demonstrating rehabilitation and good conduct;
• Whether hiring, transferring, promoting or partnering with the applicant and/or candidate
would pose a risk to the organization;
• Whether the state’s public policy encourages employment of persons who have been
convicted of crimes;
• Whether the state’s public policy encourages homeownership of persons who have been
convicted of crimes;
• The nature of the build, i.e., proximity of houses, mixed use communities, etc.; And/or any
other factor the affiliate deems relevant to the decision.
CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECK POLICY
2.2 EXAMPLES OF DISQUALIFICATION WARRANTED
If a person withholds information or falsifies information pertaining to previous convictions, the
person may be disqualified from further consideration.
The following list provides some examples in which Yakima Valley Partners Habitat for Humanity
may, within its sole discretion, determine an individual to be ineligible for homeownership,
employment and/or service:
• Embezzlement or fraud conviction of a Fundraising Director applicant;
• Stalking conviction against a supervisory candidate or candidate with access to personal
information such as Executive Director or Human Resources personnel;
• Murder and/or assault conviction against a candidate with access to dangerous
instruments, i.e., Construction Manager; and/or
• Burglary conviction of a partner family member in a condominium or apartment style
community.
This list is not exhaustive and is for illustrative purposes only. Yakima Valley Partners Habitat for
Humanity reserves the right to weigh disqualification criteria on a case-by-case basis and to
make selection decisions in its sole discretion. Disqualification may extend to any partner family
member and to any position with Yakima Valley Partners Habitat for Humanity and associated
entities, including, but not limited to Habitat for Humanity International, Inc., Area Offices,
Branches, National Organizations, Affiliates, Disaster Response Centers, Regional Support
Centers and State Support Centers.
2.3 EMPLOYMENT OFFER CONTINGENT ON CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECK
In the employment context, Yakima Valley Partners Habitat for Humanity may extend an offer of
employment to an applicant that is contingent on the completion of the criminal background
check. However, the applicant may not start work before the criminal background check and
the final employment and/or service eligibility decision has been made by Yakima Valley
Partners Habitat for Humanity personnel and/or Board of Directors.
3.0 PROCEDURE
Yakima Valley Partners Habitat for Humanity will make good faith efforts to comply with the
following procedures when conducting criminal background checks:
• Check all states in which the person has resided for the last ten (10) years;
• Ensure all recruitment information, applications, announcements, and descriptions state the
position or partner family relationship requires a criminal background check;
• Seek prior written approval in accordance with applicable laws, and in particular, where third
party vendors are retained to conduct criminal background checks;
• Initiate criminal background checks prior to the hire, transfer, promotion, or reassignment of
individuals, including reclassification;
• Notify the individual under consideration that an offer for any personnel action
(employment, transfer, promotion, reclassification, or change in duties) or homeowner
status is conditioned on successful completion of the criminal background check, and
that falsification of information submitted may be cause for corrective action, up to and
including dismissal and/or elimination from the homeownership program; and/or
• Review criminal background checks that reveal convictions and determine within a
reasonable time whether such convictions disqualify individuals from positions and/or
family partnership.
4.0 DENIAL OF APPLICATION, TERMINATION OR REASSIGNMENT
Based on any or all of the criteria outlined in this policy, Yakima Valley Partners Habitat for
Humanity may, in its sole discretion, decide that a partner family will be denied homeownership, an
employee will be terminated, a volunteer will be dismissed or an applicant will not be hired. In the
employment or volunteer context, Yakima Valley Partners Habitat for Humanity may, in its sole
discretion, also choose to reassign a former convict to a job involving less exposure to risk. In
doing so, Yakima Valley Partners Habitat for Humanity may, in its sole discretion, consider:
• The type and location of the job – whether it would give the offender access to potential
victims;
• The types of co-workers and subordinates in the workplace;
• Whether the job would involve travel;
• Work hours;
• Degree of supervision; and/or Amount of access to technology, i.e., the Internet.
I have read and acknowledged the above listed policies. This authorization is valid for
current and future reports, and I specifically understand that YVPHFH intends for this
authorization to cover both my anticipated engagement as a volunteer or my application for
employment and, any additional consumer reports obtained while I remain a volunteer or
employee.
Yakima Valley Partners Habitat for Humanity {Habitat} supports RCW 49.60 –Freedom from
discrimination – Declaration of civil rights. The right to be free from discrimination because of
race, creed, color, national origin, sex, honorably discharged veteran or military status, sexual
orientation, or the presence of any sensory, mental, or physical disability or the use of a trained
dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability is recognized as and declared to be a
civil right.
It is the Habitat’s vision to partner with all community members of Yakima, including other
affordable housing providers, ethic and minority communities and low-income families to raise the
standards of housing. Habitat will provide hope, stability and dignity for families in
partnership while building our community through quality homeownership.
Habitat is committed to supporting high standards of business ethics in every aspect of its
operation. We recognize that people work best when they know what is expected of them.
For this reason, we have developed the following Volunteer Conduct Guidelines:
Habitat expects that harmonious working and interpersonal relationships will be the standard
for all volunteers. However, conflict and inappropriate conduct occur occasionally in the
workplace. We expect volunteers to follow rules of conduct that will protect the interests and
safety of all employees, volunteers, and Habitat.
It is not possible to list all the forms of behavior/conduct that are unacceptable in the workplace. The
following list illustrates some examples that may result in disciplinary action up to and
including suspension or immediate termination of volunteer activity.
Depending on the specifics of the situation and the severity of the offence any of the levels of
discipline may be bypassed and the volunteer placement may be terminated without prior
warnings or suspensions.
This list is not all-inclusive:
• Theft or inappropriate removal or possession of Habitat property
• Falsification of documents
• Volunteering under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs
• Possession, distribution, sale, transfer or use of alcohol or illegal drugs in the workplace
while volunteering, or while operation Habitat-owned vehicles or equipment
• Fighting or threatening violence in the workplace
• Negligence or improper conduct leading to damage of Habitat’s or another person’s
property
• Disrespectful conduct
• Failure to follow a supervisor’s reasonable job assignment
• Violation of safety or health rules
• Smoking in Habitat buildings or on Habitat construction sites
• Sexual or other harassment or discrimination
• Possession of dangerous or unauthorized materials, such as explosives or firearms
• Inappropriate conduct/behavior which brings discredit upon Habitat’s mission and goals
The following procedures are generally used with respect to conduct and discipline. It is
Habitat’s policy that any conduct that, in its view, interferes with or adversely affects work is
enough grounds for disciplinary action. Such action can range from warnings to immediate
discharge. Depending on the conduct, disciplinary steps may be enforced by the following
methods:
• Written warnings
• Termination
Factors that may be considered in determining the appropriate disciplinary action can include:
• Seriousness of conduct
• Volunteer record
• Volunteer’s ability to correct their conduct
• Action taken with respect to similar conduct by other volunteers
• Other surrounding circumstances
Volunteer dress and grooming should be appropriate to the work environment. However, basic
hygiene applies to all volunteer positions.
I have read the foregoing Volunteer Code of Conduct and agree to abide by the standards
outlined therein.
I have read and acknowledged the above listed policies.
