Memorial University of Newfoundland is made better by the volunteers who work within its departments and organizations. Volunteering is a great way to develop work experience, as well as to grow as an individual. Memorial University supports volunteerism, and are a valuable asset to the University.

The recruitment and usage of volunteers carries with it an inherent risk. Enterprise Risk Management would like to reduce that risk and ensure a positive volunteer experience; it is required that all participants in Memorial University volunteer opportunities sign a waiver releasing Memorial from liability.

Volunteer Agreement

When utilizing volunteers within your department or organization it is important to keep in mind some general guidelines:

Volunteers who are minors

• These volunteers are under the age of nineteen and will require the permission of their parent/guardian before participating in any volunteer activity.

Volunteers from outside of Canada

• International students are encouraged to volunteer while studying at Memorial University. However there are some guidelines that need to be followed. Please see the guidelines on the Citizenship and Immigration Canada website for further information.
• Visitors from outside of Canada may volunteer with Memorial University. However they are responsible for their own transportation to and within the country, documentation and stay while in Canada. For further information please consult the Citizenship and Immigration Canada website.

When placing a volunteer within your department or organization it is important to remember that these volunteers generally have no training or experience. They will need adequate orientation to the department or organization to which they are placed, and will also require training to the job they will be performing.

It is important to prepare your volunteers for any situations they may encounter, and provide them with all the necessary information to perform their duties to the best of their abilities.

Volunteers of Memorial University will sometimes interact with expensive equipment and invaluable research. They also represent the university and thus should have some level of supervision. It is up to your department or organization to determine what level of supervision will be adequate for your department/organization.

For more information on how to become a volunteer, check out the Student Volunteer Bureau.