Volunteer Guide
Last year, we embarked on an exciting journey of welcoming volunteers to help with various tasks on our farm. From working the land to cooking and supporting community building, our volunteers have become a beautiful part of our adventure.
Having volunteers is fantastic, and it can also be challenging if not managed properly.
Though we’re still at the beginning of this adventure, we’ve learned quite a bit and would love to share our experience with you.
Be ready
First things first, you need to be ready to welcome your volunteers. This means ensuring you have proper accommodation and food (if that’s part of the exchange) and someone dedicated to looking after them. This includes managing their working hours and making sure they have everything they need for a great experience. A little preparation goes a long way in making everyone feel at home.
Set Clear Expectations
Be upfront about what volunteers can expect when they arrive. Honesty is the best policy. If you describe your farm as a community, volunteers will anticipate community activities and group bonding experiences. Disappointment can be avoided with clear communication.
We provide our volunteers with a guide before they arrive. This guide (which you’ll find at the end of this article) includes information about our project, rules and regulations, a code of conduct, and their working hours. It’s important that everyone on your team agrees with this manual to ensure alignment and avoid misunderstandings.
Be Prepared for the Unexpected
Think ahead about how you will handle situations where things might get broken or damaged. Clear guidelines and communication can help mitigate potential issues.
Safety first
While organisations like WWOOF offer some insurance, it doesn’t cover everything. We’ve created a health and safety manual that every volunteer must sign before starting. This covers both parties in case something happens, providing peace of mind for everyone involved.
Be Open
Volunteers bring fresh ideas and new perspectives, which can sometimes challenge the way you do things. We’ve found that each person contributes unique insights that help us grow and evolve. It’s important to have feedback sessions where everyone can share their thoughts openly and honestly, fostering a culture of mutual respect and learning.
Have Fun!
Above all, enjoy the ride. Welcoming volunteers to your farm is a rewarding experience that brings joy, new friendships, and a sense of community.
A little gift from us
Enclosed is our volunteer guide template, which you are free to use and customize to suit your needs. We hope it proves helpful. Best of luck on your adventure!
