New Horizons Volunteer

Description

The YMCA recognizes the vital role volunteers play in accomplishing its mission of strengthening the community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Volunteers support our programs by creating a positive learning environment where youth can learn skills and character values.

General Responsibilities:

• Individualized Support: Focus solely on the assigned individual, attending to their specific needs and preferences.
• Positive and Respectful Interaction: Treat each individual with dignity and respect, using appropriate language and tone. Maintain a patient and understanding demeanor.
• Communication: Communicate clearly and effectively, adapting communication style to the individual's needs (e.g., visual aids, sign language, simplified language). Actively listen and encourage communication from the individual.
• Safety: Prioritize the safety and well-being of the assigned individual. Be aware of potential hazards and take necessary precautions. Adhere to all safety guidelines and procedures.
• Confidentiality: Maintain the confidentiality of personal information about the individual. Do not share sensitive information with others without proper authorization.
• Punctuality and Attendance: Arrive on time for scheduled events and notify the event coordinator in advance of any absences or tardiness.
• Professionalism: Maintain a professional appearance and demeanor. Refrain from personal phone use or other distractions while on duty.
• Teamwork: Work collaboratively with event staff, other volunteers, and the individual's family/caregivers (if present) to ensure a cohesive and supportive environment.

Specific Task Examples (Adaptable to Individual Needs):

• Assistance with Activities: Provide support and encouragement during event activities, such as arts and crafts, games, music, or outings. This may include physical assistance, guidance, or prompting.
• Personal Care: Assist with personal care needs as required and agreed upon beforehand with the individual's caregiver/family. This may include toileting, eating, dressing, or hygiene. Note: Volunteers should only assist with personal care tasks if they have received appropriate training and it is within the organization's policy.
• Mobility Assistance: Provide assistance with mobility, such as pushing a wheelchair, guiding, or offering support while walking.
• Mealtime Assistance: Assist with meal preparation (if applicable) and eating, ensuring the individual's dietary needs are met.
• Medication Reminders: Remind individuals to take medication if needed, but do not administer medication unless specifically authorized and trained to do so.
• Behavior Management: Support positive behavior and redirect challenging behaviors in a calm and respectful manner. Communicate any concerning behaviors to the event coordinator. Note: Volunteers should not use physical restraint unless it is an emergency situation and they have received appropriate training.
• Socialization: Encourage social interaction and participation with other attendees.
• Observation and Reporting: Observe the individual's responses and progress during the event. Report any concerns or incidents to the event coordinator promptly.
• Documentation: Complete any required documentation

Communication with Event Staff:

• Check-in: Upon arrival, check in with the event coordinator to receive instructions and any specific information about the assigned individual.
• Regular Communication: Maintain regular communication with the event coordinator throughout the event, reporting any concerns or changes in the individual's condition or behavior.
• Check-out: At the end of the event, check out with the event coordinator to provide feedback and ensure a smooth transition.

Qualifications

Job Qualifications:

• Must be at least 18 years or older
• CPR and First Aid certification required if volunteering without staff present
• Volunteer should interact well with children, teens, and/or adults
• Have a professional and positive approach to volunteering
• Excellent verbal communication skills
• Able to interact effectively at all levels and across diverse cultures
• Ability to be an effective member of a team

Training and Orientation:

• Volunteers will receive appropriate training and orientation before being assigned to a 1:1 role. This training will cover topics such as:
  • Abuse Prevention
  • Volunteer handbook
  • Social Media flyer

Important Considerations:

• These expectations are guidelines and may be adapted based on the specific needs of the individual and the nature of the event.
• Volunteers should always ask questions if they are unsure about any aspect of their role.
• The safety and well-being of the special needs adults are paramount.
• Volunteers will need to cover the Livescan cost totaling $79.20.

Learn more about opportunities at the Y
www.ymcaoc.org/careers

Once a conditional offer is made, candidates will be subject to criminal background check, drug screen, and will be asked to provide criminal history. Criminal history will be analyzed on a case by case basis as it related to the position. YMCA of Orange County participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.

Salary : $79