 |
Special Volunteers |
| Position Concept The position of "Special Volunteer" is an honorary or courtesy appointment
for persons who have particular skills, time, energy, and personal commitment they are
willing to bring to help further BSC's mission. The concept is analogous to the kinds of
volunteerism drawn upon by public charities, or for certain community activities. Their
roles in BSC would be to advance organizational or program capacities, as distinct from
the volunteers who contribute field data for particular programs. Recognition events for
special volunteers need to be scheduled, especially for those who perform exceptionally
well. Special volunteers will have some mix of people and practical skills, be achievement
oriented, and be devoted to getting things done in a cooperative manner. Their mix of
skills should fit directly into some role that BSC could use help in fulfilling. Roles and responsibilities of special volunteers have to be clearly and carefully
distinguished from those for paid staff. Some may take on tasks that free up staff to do
other things that make better use of staff time and expertise. Others may help lay the
groundwork for what will eventually become the responsibility of paid staff, once BSC has
developed sufficiently to make this feasible. For the period 1999-2004, special volunteers
might play a crucial role in helping BSC establish a "regional presence" outside
of Ontario. The assigned roles and responsibilities for special volunteers will depend
largely on their personal interests and capabilities vis-a-vis what BSC needs to have
done. Special Volunteers will be appointed by the Executive Director. The position does not
carry a salary or staff benefits from BSC. There may be some provision for expenses or
support-in-kind arrangements. Appointees will be expected to act collegially, with the
highest professional and ethical standards, and respect BSC policies that would apply to
them. Duration of appointments will also vary, but should not exceed three years
(renewable). BSC may also wish to extend to successful special volunteers a preferential consideration for paid employment should this option open up. |
|
