In addition to not having any benefits, and inadequate job descriptions for the volunteers are not given a structured workplace. There is no “chain of command” and no possibility to earn advancement. This leaves volunteers confused and frustrated. For example a volunteer on their first day should not be left alone to work as an adoptions counselor, representing the SPCA to the public, they do not possess the familiarity with the SPCA nor the confidence to perform the job properly.
This conflicts with the SPCA Code of Ethics: Point 4)
Solution: Devise a system within which volunteers operate in a normal working environment. New volunteers start out in the “backroom” jobs where they can learn and not make significant mistakes. This also makes it possible to assign responsibility where it is due and will give volunteers some sense of achievement and pride in their job. It will also assure the staff that the volunteers performing the more important tasks are dedicated and capable of performing the task properly.
Symptoms: Disgruntled volunteers who do not perform at peak efficiency and are less than enthusiastic and frequent turnaround, and clashes with the staff.