If you are under 18, please complete our General Volunteer Application Form instead. A parent/guardian permission form is required prior to your first volunteer shift.

https://swanlake.app.neoncrm.com/forms/testing-volunteer-application

Volunteer Waiver and Confidentiality Form 
 

This waiver clarifies that I (as a Volunteer) understand that my relationship with Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary Society (hereafter Nature Sanctuary) is limited to a volunteer position and that no compensation or benefits traditionally associated with employment is/are expected in return for services provided by the Volunteer.    

Further I understand, acknowledge and consent as follows: 

1.  Waiver and Release: I hereby assume all risks and responsibilities for participation in Nature Sanctuary volunteer roles and waive, release and discharge the Nature Sanctuary and their officers, directors, employees and agents, from any responsibility for any harm, loss, personal injury, or death resulting from, arising out of, or in connection with volunteer activities at the Nature Sanctuary.   

2.  Risk Assessment: I understand there are risks associated with participating as a volunteer including, but not limited to, habitat restoration work with gardening tools, moving over rocky, slick or steep ground and/or other interactions with the natural environment and animals.  I recognize and understand that these activities could include the possibility of injury and hereby expressly assume the risk of injury or harm and release the Nature Sanctuary from all liability.  Injuries sustained may receive suitable first aid medical treatment which may be deemed advisable in the event of injury or sudden illness. 

3.  Confidentiality: I acknowledge that during my volunteering or association with the Nature Sanctuary I may acquire information which is confidential, or to related persons, or other institutions, including but not limited to: 

-Financial and/or business information;

-Confidential information about members, volunteers, donors, staff or program attendants; and 

-Organizational decisions or conclusions. 

I acknowledge and agree that such information is the exclusive property of the Nature Sanctuary or such related party and that the information must not be used to the detriment of the Nature Sanctuary. I therefore will treat confidentially all such information and agree not to disclose any such information to any unauthorized person either during the term of my volunteering under this agreement or after my volunteering and or association with the Nature Sanctuary has ceased. 

4.  I verify that I will provide relevant information about my skill level, capability and health, and keep the staff updated on any changes.  I am physically and mentally capable of fulfilling my volunteer duties as a Nature Sanctuary volunteer.

Volunteer Safety and Code of Conduct
Thank you for taking part in Swan Lake Stewardship Meet-Ups. These sessions focus on hands-on restoration activities that support the health and resilience of the Nature Sanctuary.

Because this work takes place outdoors and often involves physical tasks and tools, safety and care for one another and for the site are essential. The guidelines below outline shared expectations to help create a safe, respectful, and welcoming environment 

Safety Guidelines

Personal Safety and Awareness
Always prioritize your personal safety while volunteering. Be aware of your surroundings, particularly on trails, near wetlands and waterways, and in restoration areas where uneven terrain or natural hazards may be present.

As we work in an urban environment, volunteers should also be alert to hazards such as sharps or other biohazards. Please report any concerns immediately to Swan Lake staff. For safety reasons, we ask volunteers to not handle sharps or medical waste.

Check-In and Check-Out
Volunteers must check in with a staff member or designated volunteer lead at the start of their shift and notify staff before leaving the site or activity area.

Tools and Equipment
Use tools and equipment only for their intended purpose and as instructed by Swan Lake staff or designated volunteer leads. If you are unsure how to use a tool, or do not feel comfortable doing so, pause and ask for guidance before continuing.

Weather and Environmental Conditions
Volunteer activities take place outdoors year-round. Please dress appropriately for weather conditions and terrain.

Swan Lake staff may adjust or cancel activities due to weather or site conditions when safety is a concern.  This is most likely to happen during snow or wind events. Volunteers are also encouraged to make their own informed decisions about whether to participate, based on personal comfort, abilities, and wellbeing.

Hydration and Wellbeing
Volunteers are encouraged to take breaks as needed, stay hydrated, and attend to their personal wellbeing throughout activities, particularly during warm weather or physically demanding tasks. Volunteers are always welcome to modify tasks or step back if needed.

First Aid and Incident Reporting
Swan Lake staff are trained in first aid. First aid locations and emergency procedures may vary depending on the site or program.

Please report any injuries, medical concerns, or near-miss incidents to staff as soon as possible so appropriate support and follow-up can occur.

Wildlife and Habitat Respect
The Nature Sanctuary is home to diverse wildlife. Maintain a safe and respectful distance at all times. Do not approach, feed, or handle wildlife. 

Interaction with the Public
While volunteering, you may be approached by visitors with questions, comments, or concerns. Please be respectful and supportive. We request that you do not speak on behalf of the organization and refer inquiries to a staff member. If a staff member is not available, encourage the individual to contact Swan Lake by email at  info@swanlake.bc.ca or by phone at 250-479-0211 and follow up with staff about the interaction.

Communication and Conduct

Open Communication
Clear, respectful communication helps keep everyone safe and supported. If you have questions, concerns, or suggestions related to your volunteer role or safety, please speak with Swan Lake staff.

Conflict or Concerns
If conflict arises between volunteers or with members of the public, notify staff promptly. Staff will address concerns in a respectful and professional manner, with the goal of maintaining a safe and positive volunteer environment.

Emergencies
In an emergency, follow the direction of Swan Lake staff and emergency responders. Program or site-specific emergency procedures will be shared as needed.

Respect, Inclusion, and Community Care

Respectful Behaviour
Swan Lake is committed to fostering a respectful, inclusive, and welcoming environment. Volunteers are expected to treat other volunteers, staff, visitors, and community members with dignity and respect at all times.

Inclusive Environment
We strive to create a volunteer community where people feel safe, welcomed, and valued. Volunteers are encouraged to support a culture of care, learning, accountability, and mutual respect, recognizing that people bring different experiences, identities, and perspectives to the Nature Sanctuary.

Feedback and Continuous Learning
Swan Lake welcomes feedback from volunteers on how we can improve safety, inclusion, and volunteer experiences. Your insights help strengthen our programs and community.

By volunteering with Swan Lake Nature Sanctuary, you agree to follow this Volunteer Safety and Code of Conduct. Your care for one another and for the Nature Sanctuary helps ensure meaningful, positive experiences for all.

Thank you for your contribution to stewarding this place.

Volunteer Acknowledgement
I acknowledge that I have read and understand the information above and agree to follow the Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary Volunteer Safety and Code of Conduct.

Photo Release Waiver  

I, agree, understand, and give permission to be photographed and/or videotaped by staff/volunteers. 

These images may be used on Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary’s website, in print, or social media for the promotion of the organization. I understand I will not receive any compensation for use of my image.

The Nature Sanctuary will not sell, license, or otherwise assign my image or video to any other organizations without obtaining my prior written consent.