Volunteer
Handbook
Carolina Raptor Center
PO Box 16443
Charlotte, NC 28297
(704) 875-6521
Copyright (c)2005 Carolina Raptor Center, all rights reserved. Reproduction
or copying of this information in any form is strictly prohibited without
the prior written consent of Carolina Raptor Center's management.
Created and Distributed January 2005
Revised January 2009
Table of Contents
ABOUT CAROLINA RAPTOR CENTER (CRC) ............................................................................................................. 4
MISSION ................................................................................................................................................................................ 4
VISION .................................................................................................................................................................................. 4
HISTORY ............................................................................................................................................................................... 4
ACTIVITIES ............................................................................................................................................................................ 6
FUNDING ............................................................................................................................................................................... 7
PARK RULES ................................................................................................................. ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED.
HOUSEKEEPING DETAILS ....................................................................................................................................................... 7
CRC STAFF / BOARD OF DIRECTORS / VOLUNTEERS ............................................................................................................. 8
VOLUNTEER PROGRAM ................................................................................................................................................... 9
WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT FROM CAROLINA RAPTOR CENTER ................................................................................................ 9
WHAT CAROLINA RAPTOR CENTER EXPECTS FROM YOU ...................................................................................................... 9
VOLUNTEER PATH............................................................................................................................................................... 10
VOLUNTEER AREAS ............................................................................................................................................................ 11
Administrative ................................................................................................................................................................ 12
Docent ............................................................................................................................................................................ 13
Docent Training Flowchart ......................................................................................................................................... 14
Exhibits ........................................................................................................................................................................... 15
Exhibit Training Flowchart ........................................................................................................................................ 16
Grounds & Maintenance ................................................................................................................................................ 17
Rehabilitation ................................................................................................................................................................. 18
Rehabilitation Training Flowchart.............................................................................................................................. 19
Resident Raptor Keeper (RRK) ...................................................................................................................................... 22
Resident Raptor Keeper(RRK) Training Flowchart ................................................................................................... 21
Transport ........................................................................................................................................................................ 22
Visitor Services ............................................................................................................................................................... 23
Jr. Volunteer Program ................................................................................................................................................... 24
Master Level Certification .............................................................................................................................................. 24
Internships ...................................................................................................................................................................... 25
VOLUNTEER POLICIES/GUIDELINES......................................................................................................................... 26
Accident & Injury policy ................................................................................................................................................ 26
Absences & Lateness ...................................................................................................................................................... 26
Benefits ........................................................................................................................................................................... 26
Change in Status............................................................................................................................................................. 26
Complaint & Appeal Process ......................................................................................................................................... 26
Disciplinary Actions & Dismissal Policy ....................................................................................................................... 27
Dress & Public Presentation .......................................................................................................................................... 27
Name Tags ...................................................................................................................................................................... 27
Standards of Conduct ..................................................................................................................................................... 27
Time Logs & Scheduling ................................................................................................................................................ 28
Vehicle Policy & Coverage ............................................................................................................................................ 28
COMMUNICATION ........................................................................................................................................................... 29
Email .............................................................................................................................................................................. 29
Evaluations & Reviews ................................................................................................................................................... 29
Newsletter ....................................................................................................................................................................... 29
Volunteer Assignment Board .......................................................................................................................................... 29
Volunteer Notice Board .................................................................................................................................................. 29
Volunteer to Staff Communication Form........................................................................................................................ 29
VOLUNTEER EVENTS COMMITTEE (VEC) ............................................................................................................... 30
GUEST VISIT PROCEDURE ............................................................................................................................................ 31
Volunteer Handbook version 1/2009
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Welcome to
Carolina Raptor Center’s
Volunteer Program!
The Volunteer Handbook will be your guide and
resource for information about Carolina Raptor
Center and the Volunteer Program. Please read
this Handbook carefully and refer to it whenever
questions arise.
Contact the Carolina Raptor Center Business
office, or your staff supervisor with any questions
or inquiries regarding this Handbook or the
Volunteer Program.
Thank you for your time, hard work and dedication!
“A volunteer is a person who believes that people can make a
difference - and is willing to prove it”. –Anonymous
CRC provides equal volunteering opportunity for everyone regardless of age, sex, color, race, creed, national origin, religious
persuasion, marital status, sexual orientation, political belief, or disability that does not prohibit performance of essential job
functions. All matters relating to volunteering are based upon ability to perform the job, as well as dependability and
reliability.
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About Carolina Raptor Center (CRC)
Mission
Carolina Raptor Center is dedicated to environmental education and the conservation of birds of prey through
public education, the rehabilitation of injured and orphaned raptors, and research.
Vision
Carolina Raptor Center will be the premier regional environmental education, rehabilitation and research center,
using birds of prey as its signature method of educating the public about the importance of conservation efforts.
History
Although Dr. Verna Case of Davidson College and Dr. Richard Brown of UNC-Charlotte were discussing the idea of a center
to treat and monitor raptors in the mid 1970s and about a dozen raptors were treated at UNC-C between 1975 and 1979,
CRC considers an event in 1979 to be the real birth of what would become Carolina Raptor Center. During the fall of that
year a wildlife officer brought an orphaned Great Horned Owl to Dr. Brown in the Biology department at the University of
North Carolina at Charlotte. He recruited Deb Sue Griffin, a biology student, to provide care for this injured owl. Deb Sue
kept the owl in her apartment as it was recovering. Another injured owl arrived and Deb Sue took that one as well. One day
her roommate rebelled after opening the bathroom door and finding the owl sitting on the toilet lid. It was time for a new
home.
Carolina Raptor Rehabilitation and Research Center was hatched. The name was later shortened to Carolina Raptor Center.
The basement of the biology building became the new sanctuary with more students becoming involved and more birds
arriving. Stories of a black vulture riding the elevator and untying professor’s shoelaces began to spread. As the number of
birds multiplied it became clear that a new home was needed. CRC was incorporated as a 501 C (3) non-profit organization
in December of 1981. A board of directors was established with Kent Brown as the president.
The organization continued to grow at UNC-C. Outside cages were constructed and a greenhouse was converted into a
treatment facility. Drs. Gochenauer and Messenger provide free veterinary care for many of the more seriously injured birds.
The number of injured raptors and accompanying costs grew quickly. T-shirts were sold out of a cardboard box to pay for
expenses. By 1984 the number of injured birds received annually had grown to two-hundred eighteen. Students as
volunteers began presenting educational programs to schools and civic groups. The organization had grown too large to be
housed at UNC-C.
Mecklenburg County generously offered a 33 year lease, later expanded to a 99-year lease, for 57+ acres within Latta
Plantation Park for one dollar per year. CRC is currently located within Latta Plantation Nature Preserve, a +1,200 acre
preserve on Mountain Island Lake, primary water source for Charlotte and Gastonia. Sandwiched between Charlotte and
Huntersville, this region is quickly being gobbled up by development.
The first facility consisted of a donated 12’ x 12’ shed with no power, water or phone services. Water for the birds was
carried in five gallon buckets from nearby Mountain Island Lake. CRC’s volunteer executive director, Dr. Richard Brown,
maintained office space at UNC-C until 1985 when two mobile homes were installed at the site. A small mobile home served
as a rehabilitation hospital and a larger unit was leased to serve as the Center’s administrative offices. Several volunteers,
including Mathias Engelmann, lived on-site in the largest trailer during the next couple years. Initial enclosures for the birds
were created by wrapping chain link around trees. These later gave way to more advanced structures. A nature trail
connecting the enclosures was developed.
The organization depended solely on volunteers until 1986, when Mecklenburg County offered assistance in the form of a
three-year decreasing grant to assist in the hiring of initial staff members. Pat Marcum served as the first paid executive
director. From that point on, CRC grew rapidly and established itself as a professional organization. Over the next few years,
volunteers built permanent aviaries along the Nature Trail. CRC’s membership increased and spread to include more than
30 states, while a corps of dedicated volunteers emerged and began an intensive training process. The staff and volunteers
formed a speaker’s bureau to carry CRC’s message of environmental stewardship to people throughout the Carolinas and
neighboring states. Additional species of raptors were added to those displayed on the Nature Trail. In 1989, a pair of
Golden Eagles hatched and successfully raised the first Golden Eagle chick in captivity in the southeastern United States.
CRC constructed its first permanent building, the 4,000 square foot Edna S. Moretti Environmental Education Center, in
1992. This building provides a visitor reception area, a gift shop, a classroom, and administrative office space. In November
1993, CRC hosted the annual meeting of the International Raptor Research Foundation. Over 200 researchers from seven
nations attended the conference.
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Construction of the Betty J. and J. Stanley Livingston Eagle Aviary was begun in March 1997 and opened to the public in
April of 1998. This new aviary, which is 120 feet by 100 feet and rising to a maximum of 40 feet, provides space for five nonreleasable Bald Eagles and two non-releasable Golden Eagles. In November of 1998, CRC opened a 4,000 square foot
raptor rehabilitation facility. The Jim Arthur Rehabilitation Facility ranks among the finest raptor rehabilitation facilities in the
United States. Many volunteers and wildlife rehabilitators have attended classes and studied under CRC staff and senior
volunteers.
By 1999 the center had grown to six full-time staff members and a membership of over four hundred. In December 2000, a
strategic plan was formulated after input from donors, volunteers, board and staff members. This document became the
driving force behind the organization’s actions. New operating systems were brought into play resulting in an increase to
almost 1,000 members and significant growth in gift shop revenues. Over the next three years, the education department
revised and updated its programs. Program material became more structured and aligned to the NC Standard Course of
Study curriculum. New programs like the Kids For Conservation summer camp program and special events drew record
crowds. Formal docent programs have also been developed resulting in improved presentations by volunteers. Demand for
programs has out-grown facilities and staff to a level that groups are regularly turned down. A community relation’s officer
was hired to formalize communications with the public. New newsletter formats, donor events and a website
www.carolinaraptorcenter.org were created. News releases and articles on CRC have appeared from coast to coast. By
2003 the staff had grown to nineteen employees serving over 700 injured birds, 28,000 students, 20,000 visitors and
members annually.
During 2004, the volunteer program began a major transformation. Procedures were reviewed, updated and a new training
manual created. This process has helped to create uniformity and a higher level of performance. The education department
provides on and off-site programs. Classroom limitations hold the on-site programs to school groups at about 9,000 children
annually. The Wild Wings traveling program has presented hundreds of programs throughout the Carolinas, reaching
approximately 19,000 children each year. Instructors in specially equipped Wild Wings vans travel throughout North and
South Carolina with live raptors and curriculum based environmental and cultural programs.
The rehabilitation department’s patient load had increased to over seven hundred injured and orphaned hawks, owls, eagles,
falcons and vultures by 2003. In December of 2003, CRC reached a milestone with the receipt of its 10,000th injured bird. Of
the birds that survive the crucial first twenty-four hours in our care, 72% are eventually released back to the wild. A pilot
program, developed in 2001 to share this knowledge with students at the College of Veterinary Medicine at NC State
University, is being considered for other universities throughout the Carolinas. This unique experience cannot be duplicated
at the university campus. College students from the University of NC at Charlotte, Davidson College, J.C. Smith University,
Queens University, and other universities have partnered with CRC on other research projects. Biology department heads
have submitted letters endorsing the expansion of veterinary and research facilities at CRC. In 2007 CRCs rehab
department received a record 813 birds injured and orphaned raptors.
By 2003 CRC had been honored by the Institute of Museum and Library Services with two Basic Operating Support grants.
Only 20% of the national organizations applying received these grants. The Arts & Science Council also awarded its first
McColl Award to CRC in 2002. The organization continues to evolve in an effort to maximize its benefit to the community.
CRC joined the NC Grassroots Science Museum Collaborative in 2001 and received its first state funding through this
organization during the fall of 2003. CRC continues to receive over 80% of its funding through private contributions and
earned income of programs and gift shop sales.
Backyard Tails, Carolina Raptor Center's free flight program, was launched in 2005. This program was created to inspire
visitors to care for and conserve our natural resources. During its first year, the program was performed on the first weekend
of each month. This program expanded to every weekend during the 2006 summer season.
The education department began upgrading its standard teacher evaluation surveys to include true program assessment.
During the fall of 2005, an assessment of the "Habitat Is Where It's At" program was conducted. The goal was to teach
students that four characteristics are critical in any habitat - water, food, shelter and space. Children drew pictures
representing their answers to this question before and after the program. While children's recognition improved by at least
8% in all areas, we were most amazed with the concept of space. This concept includes parks, greenways and open spaces
that we all know add to the quality of life. Before the program only 10% of the children recognized space as a key character.
After the program, 67% of all the children identified space as a key component to a healthy habitat. Carolina Raptor Center's
environmental mission is important to the community in maintaining a high quality of living.
In 2005, Charity Navigator.org evaluated twenty-eight Charlotte based, non-profit organizations. Carolina Raptor Center was
one of only three that received their highest, four-star rating. An annual fundraising event was created in May 2005. Jeff
Corwin of Discovery Channel's Animal Planet served as the keynote speaker. Over 400 guests joined us at "Take Flight" and
helped raise over $125,000. The event was such a success that it was repeated in 2004 with Jack Hanna and in 2007 with
the Kratt brothers.
Attendance reached an all-time high in 2005 of approximately 28,000 visitors and then broke that record with over 31,000
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visitors in 2006. This continues a steady increase that comes with improved marketing, programs and nature trail
experiences.
In 2007, CRC was awarded an IMLS Museums for America grant, which funded the first ever staff veterinarian. The MERLIN
program, a teaching program for veterinarians and veterinary students, was also made possible because of this grant.
CRC became the first NC institution to give birth to bald eaglets in March 2006. These eagles were outfitted with
solar powered satellite transmitters. Within two months of their release one had flown to Canada and the other
to New York. We will continue to track these birds and share their journeys with the public. For more information
and tracking map please see the CRC website. We successfully released another eaglet in May 2008, that was
reared by resident bald eagle parents Savannah and Derek, due to fiscal constraints no transmitters were
installed.
Activities
 Environmental Education
Environmental education is one of CRC’s primary goals. By educating the public on why birds of prey come to
CRC, we can educate them about a multitude of environmental and conservation issues as they relate to raptors
and humans. CRC education programs feature live birds of prey that attract and hold the audiences’ attention.
CRC staff and volunteers present more than 500 programs each year to school groups, civic groups, scout
troops and other groups. Beginning in 2007 CRC contracted with Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools to do our
“Habitat is Where it’s At” program for every first grade class within the school district. In addition, we participate
in as many as 100 festivals, fairs, and other public gatherings annually through our exhibit program. Volunteers
present roughly 250 programs annually on-site at CRC, educating weekend visitors about birds of prey and
raising environmental consciousness. Our message of environmental stewardship and accountability reaches
more than 150,000 people each year.
 Rehabilitation
Since its inception, Carolina Raptor Center has admitted over 13,000 injured and orphaned raptors. Currently
CRC receives nearly 800 injured or orphaned birds of prey per year. Almost 72 percent of those birds that
survive the first 24 hours are released back into the wild. Several veterinarians donate their time and supplies to
CRC by performing operations, such as pinning broken bones and repairing damaged eyes, when required. All
other evaluation (including x-ray), care and treatment, is performed at CRC by staff and volunteers. CRC has
collected surgery equipment though donations and now has a full scale surgery room. Although the facility iwas
not yet completed, the first on-site surgeries were performed in December of 2003. In January 2008 CRC
received a donation of a digital x-ray machine thanks to board member connections at Presbyterian hospital.
This digital x-ray machine cuts down the amount of time to develop xrays from 10 minutes to 1 minute. It also
eliminates the use of harmful developing chemicals, and will improve our care of the birds tremendously. Injured
birds are received from all over North and South Carolina, as well as from Georgia, Tennessee, Virginia and
many other states. An extensive network of transport volunteers work with CRC to ensure raptors receive
prompt care at CRC or another rehabilitation facility. Thanks to a grant for our MERLIN project, CRC has had a
full time vet on Staff since June 2008. Dr. Scott will bring the level of care the birds get to an even higher level
and will certainly bring our release rate up as well.
 Resident Bird Husbandry and Training
CRC is home to nearly 100 permanent resident raptors, whose injuries prevent them from returning to the wild.
Staff and volunteers work to provide these birds with the highest quality of life possible through their husbandry,
medical care and training.
 Research
CRC has been involved in many research projects over the last 20 years. Examples include an Osprey
introduction project on Lake Norman, an annual Mid-Winter Bald Eagle survey in North Carolina, a
determination of feeding requirements, and an exploration of sexing techniques. Currently, CRC is supporting a
study of differences in reproduction rates, territory size, and prey selection between urban and rural barred owl
populations. CRC also assisted with a project designed to evaluate water quality of specific locals in Charlotte,
NC. All released birds are banded with USFWS bands providing a means of tracking birds if found at a later
date. CRC participates in a fall hawk watch and banding station at the Pea Island National Wildlife Reserve.
Future research potential resides in measurement data on many characteristics that have been collected but not
yet analyzed.
 Reproduction
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Although reproduction of raptor species is not a primary goal for CRC, resident birds of some species, such as
barred owls, great horned owls, barn owls, bald eagles, and red-tailed hawks, produce young each year. Once
able to care for themselves, these healthy young birds are released into the wild. Most of these young are
produced by cage-mates in cages along the public display trail. This is one indication that the environment CRC
provides for these captive birds meets their requirements to lead a ‘normal’ life.
Funding
Environmentally conscious individuals and businesses provide the largest portion of CRC’s funding. CRC has
received federal grants from IMLS and state funds through the North Carolina Grass Roots Science Museum
Collaborative. The operating income is generated from, memberships, donations, education program fees, the
Adopt-A-Bird program, imprinted brick sales, gift-shop sales, as well as training and consulting fees; we receive
no direct operating support from the City or County. An annual Basic Operating Grant (BOG) from the Arts and
Science Council of Mecklenburg County (ASC) provides approximately 15% of the operating budget.
Foundations and Corporate Grants often support special projects. Funds supporting the Rehabilitation
Department come from the operating budget, in-kind gifts of medicine and supplies donated to CRC, and
volunteer services. CRC received the 2008 Stanford Financial Excellence in Culture Award through the Arts and
Science Council. This award is given to non-profits in the Charlotte area that promote good stewardship with
their finances and prove to be sound and stable organizations.
Park Rules
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The speed limit in the park is 20mph – please watch out for horses entering or walking on the road.
Limit speed to 5mp when entering CRC parking lots.
Smoking is only allowed in the parking lots
No alcohol or drugs allowed in park
No firearms are permitted on CRC property.
Housekeeping details
There are two break rooms – one in the Rehabilitation Building and one in the Visitor Center - for volunteers and
staff to use with access to a refrigerator, microwave, dishes and sink. It is each individual’s responsibility to
clean up after their use of the area, equipment and dishes. CRC does not have anyone on staff to provide
cleaning in these areas other than removal of the trash and mopping of the floors. Please help keep these
areas clean and in order for all to enjoy.
As an environmental organization, CRC feels it is important to recycle when possible. There are paper,
aluminum and plastic recycling bins in the kitchens as well as other areas on the premises. Please be sure to
put items in the proper bins and in the proper condition – rinsing out cans and bottles, flattening boxes, etc. If
you would like to help with our recycling effort, please contact the Business Office about opportunities and
needs.
We are currently receiving money from various outfits for our aluminum, cardboard and paper recycling. Please
feel free to bring the aforementioned items to CRC’s outdoor recycling container. Special thanks to Wise
Recycling and International Paper for contracting with us.
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CRC Staff / Board of Directors / Volunteers
See Organizational Chart on next page
As a non-profit organization, CRC is managed and operated by a professional staff, with oversight by a
volunteer Board of Directors. For current list of board members please see our website. CRC’s volunteers
support the organization and help to further the mission and vision by volunteering their time in the areas of
administration, education through the docent program, marketing and outreach through exhibits, grounds and
maintenance, rehabilitation, resident raptor keeper, transport, and visitor services. The volunteer’s role is further
defined in the job descriptions for the area they are assigned.
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Volunteer Program
What you can expect from Carolina Raptor Center
CRC Volunteers have the right to:

A clear specific job description.

Adequate orientation, training, and supervision to meet the responsibilities of the position.

Be assigned appropriate assignments according to skill, interests, availability, and training.

Be treated as a co-worker who contributes to CRC goals through your volunteer work.

Receive regular consultation regarding your goals in volunteering for CRC and for a review of job
performance.

Be given appropriate expressions of appreciation and recognition.

Expect that volunteer records will be kept documenting volunteer experience, positions held, training,
evaluation and commendation.

Ongoing communication from CRC through the Volunteer Newsletter, mailed/emailed notices and postings
on the Volunteer Notice Board (see the Communication Section for more info).
What Carolina Raptor Center expects from you
When you become a CRC volunteer, there are certain commitments and responsibilities that we will expect of
you:

To abide by the policies and procedures of CRC

To know your own duties and how to do them promptly, correctly and pleasantly.

If questions arise ask appropriate staff member for help.

You are expected to cooperate with staff and your fellow volunteers and maintain a good team attitude.

Maintain the confidentiality of privileged information relative to all areas of CRC, its staff & volunteers.

Sign up in advance for scheduled duties, meet time commitments and notify immediate supervisor if time
commitments cannot be met.

Record the number of hours you have worked on behalf of CRC on a Time Log

We expect you to voice your opinions to the appropriate staff and contribute your suggestions to improve
CRC and the volunteer program.

Wear your ID badge at all times and follow the dress code.

Notify immediately the Business Office, or your staff supervisor of changes to contact information or if
leaving the volunteer program.
Remember, you help to create the pleasant and safe volunteering conditions
that CRC intends for you. We need your help in making each volunteering day
enjoyable and rewarding.
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Volunteer Path
Submit
Application
Business Office contacts
to discuss options
Sign up to become a Special Projects
Volunteer – this option is for groups or
individuals wanting to help on an as
needed basis that are not able to make
the commitment required to join the
Volunteer Program
Individuals able to commit to the training
and time required to join the volunteer
program are registered for Orientation
Attend Orientation where you will get an overview
of CRC and the Volunteer Program; learn about
the different areas to volunteer; choose an area to
volunteer in and sign up for training.
Complete first level of training or
schedule meeting with Supervisor of
the area you have chosen to work
Set schedule and
begin volunteering
Once you have completed 40 hours,
contact the Business Office to receive
your t-shirt and have your permanent
name tag ordered
Upon completion
of 100
hours
following all training requirements of the area, volunteers are eligible to be
Volunteer
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evaluated and/or tested by their Supervisor to receive Master Level Volunteer Status
10
Volunteer Areas
CRC relies on volunteers in all areas of the organization – from caring for injured birds to assisting in the office;
volunteers fill vital areas to help with day-to-day needs. The work of a volunteer in each area is detailed through
job descriptions. The following pages contain job descriptions for each area in which CRC utilizes volunteers.
Some areas require more training than others and are further outlined through flowcharts.
Administrative: Like any busy office, CRC always needs organized individuals to help out administratively.
From filing patient charts to helping stuff an envelope to entering names into the mailing list database, there is
always plenty of work for an additional pair of hands!
Docent Program: If you love learning or simply love raptors and want to share your enthusiasm with our
visitors, consider becoming a docent. Docents are interpreters or teachers/educators at museums or
universities, or in this case nature preserves! Docents may be stationed along the trail to answer visitors'
questions, or may lead Trail Trivia or Behind-the-Scenes Tours. Docent II volunteers handle birds and lead
onsite weathering area presentations. The primary responsibility of a docent is to give accurate, interesting
information to visitors, and to convey enthusiasm and positive energy about the environment. Prior public
speaking and / or teaching experience helpful.
Exhibits: CRC visits festivals and events all over the Charlotte area; these exhibits are crucial exposure
because we get the opportunity to interact with people who have never visited or perhaps even heard of CRC.
Exhibits are staffed by volunteers who are certified to handle birds and volunteers trained to assist with all
aspects from set up to break down. The volunteers are there to talk to the public, answer questions and hand
out literature. These exhibits are a wonderful marketing tool and a great way to get out into the community.
Grounds & Maintenance: These volunteers may do anything from helping build a new cage to maintaining the
landscaping around the buildings. If you enjoy working with your hands and being outdoors, this is the job for
you!
Rehabilitation: Rehabilitation volunteers are the "ER" personnel: the first ones to help examine a bird when it
arrives. They are responsible for providing food, medication and physical therapy for the injured and orphaned
raptor patients. They also clean and sanitize cages and kennels, vital to a healthy recovery. Rehabilitation is a
specialty - you must be dedicated, dependable, and willing to get close to some dangerous creatures. The
rewards are immeasurable. Note: Handling of birds occurs after the first 40 hours of volunteering.
Resident Raptor Keeper: CRC has close to 100 birds that live permanently on-site: birds on the public display
trail and birds that travel to exhibits and education programs. RRK volunteers feed (this means handling and
cutting dead mice, rats, chicks and fish), change water and clean the cages of these resident birds. After 40
hours of volunteer service, RRK volunteers may also go through training to become certified to handle the birds
and help with checking their weight, feet and equipment as well as overall health.
Transport: Injured birds of prey come to CRC from all over the region. To get them into the hands of medical
experts, volunteers must be willing to pick up the birds and bring them to CRC or transfer them to another
rehabilitation facility. People need to be available to transport birds within the Carolinas. This sometimes
involves a bit of driving, but being a "raptor ambulance" is a necessary and rewarding part of the rehabilitation
process. Training is provided through our Rehabilitation department on how to capture and secure a bird that
might be injured.
Visitor Services: Over 25,000 visitors come through the front doors each year, so if you love talking to people
about CRC this is the place for you! Volunteer duties include greeting visitors when they come in the front door,
answering questions, directing people to the nature trail and restrooms, and ringing up purchases on the cash
register. Visitor Service volunteers work in an air-conditioned space and are not required to spend an entire
day. Volunteer for a few hours a month and you'll spend a pleasant afternoon helping a good cause!
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Administrative
Job Title:
Administrative Assistant
Team:
Business Office
Reports to:
Business Office Staff
General Description:
An Administrative Assistant helps all areas with general administrative duties including, but not
limited to, copying, filing, mailings, data entry, shredding, word processing, and other needs as
they arise.
Time Commitment & Training:
Initial training consists of a meeting with the director of volunteers services and/or a business office staff
member to determine skill set and fit to needs of organization
Commitment is on an as needed basis
Qualifications:
 Completed Orientation
 Ability to take direction and instruction on a project and then work independently
 Experience in an office setting helpful but not required including skills using a copier, fax, computer,
shredder, and postage machine
Specific responsibilities:
 Assisting Staff with:
o Copying – CRC uses many forms that we need to keep available; packets need to be put
together for the Orientations held four times a year, special projects as they arise.
o Filing – CRC maintains files in each department and has ongoing needs for support in
keeping the filing up to date.
o Mailings – CRC sends out multiple mailings throughout the year that need to be printed,
copied, collated, folded, labeled and stamped.
o Data entry – CRC maintains several databases that require data entry and different
departments produce spreadsheets that need to be maintained and updated.
o Shredding – Shredding can be a time consuming duty, but is a necessary part of processing
some of CRC’s paperwork.
o Word Processing – CRC has projects that require updates to existing documents and the
creation of new documents.
o Special Projects will arise from time to time in different departments that require
administrative support.
Master Level Certification:
After 100 hours of service and evaluation by Supervisor.
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Docent
Job Title:
Team:
Reports to:
Docent I & II*
Education
Heather Merewood, Director of Education
General Description:
Docent volunteers are CRC’s “front lines” in educating the public about birds of prey, the
individual resident birds, specific raptor or bird traits, and environmental topics.
Time Commitment & Training:
Docent I
Initial training consists of Docent I Training class, 80% or higher on DOC I test, and shadowing
of Behind the Scenes Tour, Meet the Keeper, Trail Trivia Tour, and Information Station. After
shadowing, the volunteer must be evaluated by the Docent Coordinator.
Ongoing commitment of leading at least one onsite offering every month
After being evaluated and certified on Behind the Scenes, Meet the Keeper, Information Station and
Trail Trivia Tour you are eligible to sign up for the Docent II Training class.
Docent II
Initial training consists of Docent II Training class, Handling I and II training classes, shadowing of
6 weathering area presentations, and evaluation of Weathering Area presentation.
Ongoing commitment of leading at least one onsite offering every month.
Qualifications: Prior public speaking and / or teaching experience helpful.
Docent I:
 Completed orientation
 Comfortable speaking and interacting with the public
 Enthusiastic about sharing information about raptors and CRC’s mission
 Completed Docent I training
 Passed Docent I test
 Completed required shadowing
 Completed all three evaluations (BTS, MTK, TTT)
 Lead at least one onsite offering every one month
Docent II (including all the above):
 Completed Docent II training
 Completed required shadowing
 Completed Handling I and II (can start shadowing before completed handling classes)
 Completed evaluation
 Lead at least one onsite offering every month
Specific responsibilities:
 The primary responsibility of a CRC docent is to give accurate, interesting information to visitors,
and to convey enthusiasm and positive energy about the environment.
 Lead Behind the Scenes, Information Station, Meet the Keeper, Trail Trivia Tour, Stroll Patrol, and
Weathering Area
Master Level Certification:
After completing all training and 100 hours of service after last class and Test given by Supervisor.
*In an effort to control the number of people handling the birds and the number of people manageable by the organization, there is a
maximum of 50 Docent II handler openings. A wait list based on total number of volunteer hours worked will be started for volunteers
wishing to become a Docent handler after we reach this number.
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Docent Training Flowchart
Orientation
DOCENT I CLASS
Pass Docent I test with at least 80%
Shadow BTS, MTK, IS and TTT
Evaluation on BTS, MTK, and TTT
=Certified Docent I
DOCENT II CLASS
Shadowing of 6 WA
Presentations
Handling I and II
Trained and signed off
on four different species
Evaluation of Weathering Area
Presentation
Complete 100 hours of
Docent service work
Master Level
Volunteer
Certification Test
Master Level Volunteer
Certification
Exhibits
Job Title:
Team
Reports to:
Exhibit Assistant & Exhibit Lead*
Development / Community Relations
Meghan Murphy, Exhibit Coordinator
General Description:
An Exhibit Assistant is trained to help with all aspects of an exhibit except for physically handling the birds.
This includes helping with exhibit preparations, setting up and breaking down the exhibit, speaking to the public
and ringing up gift shop items. An Exhibit Lead is trained to do all aspects of an exhibit including handling the
birds.
Time Commitment & Training:
Exhibit Assistant:
Initial training of 20-30 hours consisting of Level I Class, Shadowing & Evaluation
Ongoing commitment of a minimum of 15 hours per year at exhibits
Exhibit Lead:
Level II Class, Handling I and II Classes, Shadowing, Evaluation, training to handle exhibit birds
Ongoing commitment of a minimum of 25 hours per year at exhibits
Qualifications
Exhibit Assistant:

Completed Orientation

Good public speaker

Enthusiastic about sharing information about CRC, environmental conservation and the birds with others

Comfortable soliciting monetary donations

Good driving record (provide a Motor Vehicle Report to Exhibit Coordinator)

Experience in a retail setting helpful, but not necessary

Completion of Exhibit Assistant requirements
Exhibit Lead:

Desire to handle the birds and interest in learning about them

Completion of Exhibit Lead requirements
Specific Responsibilities
Exhibit Assistant & Lead:

Packing up supplies in van and reviewing exhibit checklist

Unloading supplies at exhibit & setting up

Break down exhibit, pack and load supplies

Cleaning up during exhibit, after exhibit and back at CRC

Completing paperwork – Exhibit Record Keeping

Answer the public’s questions regarding CRC, environmental conservation and the birds.

When gift shop is included, ring up gift shop items and help customers with purchases.
Exhibit Lead:

Trained to handle birds on Exhibit Team

Kenneling of birds and placing on perches

Caring for birds while on exhibit – watching while on perch, feeding, cleaning up after

Health and safety of birds and anyone near the birds
Master Level Volunteer Certification:
After completing all training and 100 hours of service after last class and Test given by Supervisor.
*In an effort to control the number of people handling the birds and the number of people manageable by the organization, there is a
maximum of 50 Exhibit Lead Volunteer openings. A wait list based on total number of volunteer hours worked will be started for volunteers
wishing to become a Lead after we reach this number.
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Exhibit Training Flowchart
Orientation
LEVEL I CLASS
Exhibit Assistant Training
Exhibit Assistant Shadowing
Exhibit Assistant Evaluation
Complete 15 hours as an
Exhibit Assistant
LEVEL II CLASS
Exhibit Lead Training
Handling I and II
Exhibit Lead Shadowing
Exhibit Lead Evaluation
Complete 100 hours as
an Exhibit Lead
Master Level Volunteer
Certification Test
Master Level Volunteer
Certification
Grounds & Maintenance
Job Title:
Grounds & Maintenance Assistant
Team:
Grounds & Maintenance
Reports to:
Chief Operating Officer
General Description:
A Grounds and Maintenance Assistant supports the onsite needs of CRC by completing tasks
and projects related to the buildings, landscape and aviaries. They also support CRC with set up
and break down needs at Exhibits.
Time Commitment & Training:
Initial training consists of a meeting with the Business Office to determine skill set and fit to needs of
organization
Ongoing commitment of a minimum of four hours per month
Qualifications:
 Completed Orientation
 Ability to take direction and instruction on a project and then work independently
 Experience in landscaping and maintenance helpful, but not necessary
Specific responsibilities:
 Needs are listed on the Grounds & Maintenance List in the Rehabilitation building or on the Special
Projects List maintained by the Director of Volunteer Services. They include, but are not limited to:
o Fixing broken items in buildings or aviaries.
o Landscaping work around CRC.
o Recycling
o Construction of aviaries
o Coordinating and managing other volunteers or work groups on special projects.
Master Level Certification:
After completing 100 hours of service and evaluation by Supervisor.
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Rehabilitation
Job Title:
Rehabilitation Assistant
Team:
Rehabilitation
Reports to:
Kristin Dean, Rehabilitation Coordinator and Rehab Volunteer Liaison
General Description:
Rehabilitation Assistants help in all aspects of the Rehabilitation Team with respective training,
from taking calls on injured birds to caring for sick raptors to releasing a healed bird back into
the wild. Note: You will not handle birds during the first 40 hours.
Time Commitment & Training:
Initial training consists of Rehab I Training Class
Ongoing commitment of at least one shift every other week (shifts average four hours)
Initial Qualifications:
 Desire to learn, willingness to work hard
 Completed Orientation
 Completed Rehabilitation I Training and completion of the Rehab Skills Checklist
Specific responsibilities:
First 40 Hrs. (Rehab One)
 Basic raptor husbandry tasks
 Preparing food and Feeding of Outside Diurnals and Nocturnal
 Cleaning of outside cages
 Bird laundry (towels)
 Copying forms
 Minor cage repairs
 Released Healed Birds
After 40 Hrs
 Provide medical treatments and physical therapy to birds
 Prepare food for injured birds and feed them
 Clean intensive care kennels
 Release healed birds!
 Clean A/C filters up & down stairs
 Sweep and mop lower floor of rehabilitation facility
 Answer and return phone calls
 Prepare acquisition packs
 Stock and check inventory of medical supplies
 Various general husbandry tasks that do not get done by rehab one volunteers
Master Level Certification:
After completing all training and 100 hours of service after last class and Test given by Supervisor.
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Rehabilitation Training Flowchart
Orientation
Rehab I Class
Complete 40 hours of Rehab service and
skills checklist
Rehab II Class
Complete 40 hours of rehab
service work
Rehab III Class
Complete 40 hours of
Rehab service work
Rehab IV Class
Complete 100 hours of
Rehab service work
Master Level
Volunteer
Certification Test
Master Level Volunteer
Certification
Resident Raptor Keeper
Job Title:
Resident Raptor Keeper
Team:
Husbandry and Training
Reports to:
Nicki Dardinger – Director of Husbandry and Training
General Description:
RRK consists of caring for the resident raptors at CRC, this can include but is not limited to –
feeding, cleaning aviaries, changing water, performinmg weekly care of birds (weighing,
checking feet, oiling equipment), and training others to handle the birds.
Time Commitment & Training:
Initial training consists of RRK Level I Training Class. The Natural History class must also be taken
within a year of volunteering and prior to handling.
Ongoing commitment of at least one “shift” once or every other week
After cleaning, feeding or watering once a week for three months or once every other week for six
months, and volunteering at least 40 hours, you are eligible to sign up for RRK Level Two Class and
Handling I and II
Ongoing commitment as a Handler (details in RRK Manual)
Ongoing commitment as a Trainer (details in RRK Manual)
Initial Qualifications:
 Completed Orientation
 Completed RRK 1 Training Class
 Refer to RRK Manual for details on requirements to become a handler.
Specific responsibilities:
 Cleaning of resident aviaries
 Changing water in resident aviaries
 Feeding of resident birds – done twice a day (AM Feeding for diurnals and PM Feeding for nocturnal
birds)
 Handlers – checking birds weight, feet, keel and maintaining equipment
 Certified Trainers – following CRC guidelines in training others to handle the birds
Master Level Certification:
After completing all training and 100 hours of service after last class and passing test and evaluation
given by Supervisors.
*In an effort to control the number of people handling the birds and the number of people manageable by the organization, there is a
maximum of 50 RRK handler openings. A wait list based on total number of volunteer hours worked will be started for volunteers wishing to
become a RRK handler after we reach this number.
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Resident Raptor Keeper (RRK) Training Flowchart
Orientation
RRK 1 /Natural History
Class (taken within one
year of volunteering)
Complete 40 hours of RRK
service work
(*Must clean display cage or feed
once a week for 3 mos.)
RRK II Class
Handling Class I
and II
Complete 20 hours of
RRK service work
RRK III Class
Complete 100 hours of
RRK service work
Master Level
Volunteer Certification
Test
Master Level Volunteer
Certification
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Transport
Job Title:
Transport/ Raptor Ambulance Volunteer
Team:
Rehabilitation
Reports to:
Julia Raddatz-Rehabilitation Coordinator
General Description:
A Transport Volunteer assists the Rehabilitation department with the transport of birds as well as
marketing the center to the finders. Transport may be required when: CRC receives a call about
an injured bird, a bird needs to be transported to a vet for surgery, a bird needs to be picked up
or taken to another center or rehabber.
Time Commitment & Training:
Orientation
Transport Class
Ongoing commitment will vary on area and number of calls CRC receives
Qualifications:
 Completed Orientation
 Transport Class
 Clean driving record and proof of insurance (If CRC vehicle is used)
Specific responsibilities:
 Pick up birds from location found and bring to CRC or relay to another volunteer in a timely manner.
 Transport birds from/to vet, transport birds from/to CRC in appropriate container.
 Capture injured birds and bring to CRC or relay to another volunteer.
 Pass out marketing materials regarding CRC and the raptor rehabilitation department
Master Level Certification:
After completing 100 hours of service and evaluation by Supervisor.
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Visitor Services
Job Title:
Visitor Services Assistant
Team:
Creative Team
Reports to:
Carol Robinson – Director of Creative Processes
General Description:
A Visitor Services Assistant helps onsite with greeting visitors in the Visitor Center, ringing up
admissions, explaining the trails and programs to visitors, ringing up gift shop sales,
merchandising and inventory. In addition, they may also help with gift shop sales,
merchandising, set up and break down at exhibits.
Time Commitment & Training:
Initial training consists of shadowing Visitor Services
Ongoing commitment of a minimum of four hours per month
Qualifications:
 Completed Orientation
 Comfortable speaking and interacting with the public
 Enthusiastic about sharing information about CRC and the birds with others
 Experience in a retail setting helpful, but not necessary
Specific responsibilities:
 Assisting Staff with:
o Greeting Visitors
o Ringing up admissions
o Explaining the trails and programs to visitors
o Promoting Memberships, Adopt-A-Birds and Commemorative Brick sales
o Ringing up gift shop sales
o Merchandising / Pricing
o Gift shop sales, set up and break down at exhibits
Master Level Certification:
After completing 100 hours of service and evaluation by Supervisor.
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Jr. Volunteer Program
Junior volunteers are 10-15 years old and have an adult who volunteers as a team with them each and every
time they volunteer. The adult must be at least 18 years of age but does not have to be the junior volunteer’s
parent or guardian.
As recommended by the NWRA (National Wildlife Rehabilitators Association) and due to the risks posed by
potential zoonotic diseases to immune systems that may not be fully developed, we are not allowing new junior
volunteers into the Rehab program. All other volunteer areas are currently open for junior volunteers.
A trial period of 3 months will be used to provide feedback to the volunteers and to determine
if continuation is in the best interest of the volunteers and the CRC. Junior volunteers must
follow manual guidelines in the area they are trained that detail their involvement and the
requirements to advance to higher levels and bird handling.
Master Level Certification
In each area of the organization volunteers can reach Master Level Certification. This is the highest
achievement for volunteers within CRC and comes with certain responsibilities, opportunities, privileges and
benefits! Some of those are listed below and others are outlined within the Manuals for each area.
Master Level Volunteer Responsibilities & Opportunities:






Help introduce CRC to new volunteers through speaking at Orientation
Assist in training volunteers
Share information regarding opportunities in the organization
Help fill needs and make sure others know of those needs
Encourage volunteer involvement
Assisting staff – may consist of special project help, equipment making, working on policies
and procedures
Master Level Volunteer Privileges & Benefits:




Volunteer Development – trips, seminars, conferences
Field Trips – at least one will be planned annually
Communication – Staff & Board of Director Meeting reports will be sent to master level
Volunteers
Invitation to participate in Strategic Planning sessions
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Internships
CRC offers full and part-time internships to qualified applicants on a regular basis. All of our internships are
unpaid, and require a varied number of hours. Qualified applicants will have an enthusiasm for working in the
environmental sector, be deadline oriented; have the ability to work in a fast-paced environment; have the ability
to complete projects independently; and have the flexibility to work with a variety of people. If interested, please
contact the Business Office for more details.
Wild Wings Educator: Interns will be a part of an energetic education team, and have the opportunity to assist with a
variety of education programs. This role will be dynamic, with hands on opportunities to educate and inspire students,
teachers and other guests. Activities will include assisting with onsite programs, providing tours of facilities, traveling to
present programs across North and South Carolina, participating in onsite family events, designing informational kiosks,
other activities as assigned by the Director of Education.
Rehabilitation Intern: This internship focuses on the direct care of injured raptors on site. Interns participate in all
aspects of the rehabilitation process: identification, bird transport and handling, examination, administration of fluids and
medications, wound management, basic lab work, record-keeping, and routine care such as feeding, watering, and cleaning.
Some administrative duties and interaction with the public and donors are also required. Applicants should be self-motivated
and be willing to both learn and teach skills, be able to work with a variety of staff and volunteers, and be able to adjust to
somewhat unpredictable and often long hours. Because of the nature of the position, this internship has extensive bird
handling.
Resident Raptor Keeper Intern: Interns will care for nearly 100 permanently injured, captive birds of prey. The position
will include exposure to all aspects of raptor care. Activities will include helping with daily care of resident birds including
feeding, changing water, and cleaning cages; coordinating work and training with volunteers; learning to make equipment
(jesses and alymeries) for 'manned' birds; assisting with health check-ups of permanent resident birds including checking
keel, beak, footpads, ears, and eyes; weighing, and giving injections and/or oral medications; learning how to handle some
'beginner' manned birds for weighing and oiling of leather equipment, learning animal behavior and training skills, and
helping maintain and repair cages.
Summer Camp Intern: Be a part of CRC’s Kids for Conservation summer camp. For more information see our website.
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Volunteer Policies
Please bring any concerns or issues with volunteers not following policy or procedure to the attention of the
Supervisor in your area or the Business Office; they are responsible for handling those situations.
Accident & Injury policy
CRC provides training in all areas of the organization to assure everyone is properly trained in the safety rules
as it relates to their job. You should never do anything you are not trained and comfortable doing. If an
accident does occur, please make sure the person injured is in no immediate danger and notify a staff person
right away. It is the staff’s responsibility to have an injury report completed, contact emergency service (911) if
needed and to notify an injured volunteer’s emergency contact if necessary.
Absences & Lateness
When you sign up to attend a workshop, meeting, or to work, you are expected to be there unless you call well
in advance to cancel. When someone unexpectedly misses a commitment, it can interrupt the smooth flow of a
day and may even result in neglect of duties. If you are unable to report to volunteer, or if you will arrive late,
please contact your immediate supervisor or someone working in that area. Give them as much time as
possible to arrange for someone else to cover your position until you arrive. Excessive absences may be cause
for termination.
Benefits
Benefits to volunteers include the following:







Development of marketable skills for future career opportunities.
Training and other learning opportunities
Volunteer Development Opportunities to attend conferences, meetings, and events related to the work done at CRC
Free admission for you and your immediate family
20% discount in CRC’s Gift Shop
In some cases hours will count towards being able to name a non-releasable bird
Release rehabilitated birds
Change in Status
Volunteers must notify their immediate supervisor and the Business Office when there are changes in status
including contact information, changes in their availability to volunteer, or if they wish to change volunteer areas
or responsibilities. Volunteers are considered “Active” if they are meeting the minimum requirements per their
job description. If a volunteer drops below the minimum requirements in their area, the Supervisor of that area
will contact the volunteer to determine the reason and address any issues. If the volunteer will not be able to
meet the minimum requirements for a position, the Supervisor will then notify the Business Office in writing with
the details. Volunteers that do not maintain at least the minimum requirements of one area will be removed
from the Active Volunteer List and any distribution lists. To return to Active Status, the volunteer must first meet
with the Business Office prior to returning to their volunteer work.
Complaint & Appeal Process
CRC has a formal complaint and appeal procedure that is the same for both staff and volunteers. If a volunteer
has a concern, complaint, serious issue with another volunteer or a staff person, a disagreement with a
manager, or problem with CRC procedure or operation, they should not hesitate to bring it to the attention of
their supervisor or the Business Office. If the problem is not solved through the supervisor or Business Office,
the second step is to contact the Chief Operating Officer (COO). The COO will obtain all the facts and try to
resolve the problem fairly. If the problem cannot be solved at this level, a written request may be made to the
President/CEO outlining the concern. The President will then put it on the agenda for the next Executive
Committee meeting, or call a special meeting if the issue is deemed to be of an urgent nature. The decision of
the Executive Committee is final, with no further recourse.
The same procedure is in place if a volunteer feels the need to appeal a punishment or termination enacted
against the volunteer by management. Please note that while “appeal” to the supervisor that instituted
punishment is obviously not appropriate, the volunteer should avail his or her self of every other possible
avenue of appeal before bringing a matter to the attention of the Executive Committee of the Board.
Representation or arguments may be provided to the Executive Committee in written form only, and their
decision is binding.
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Disciplinary Actions & Dismissal Policy
CRC is an at-will agency and has the right to terminate a volunteer without cause, but will always consider the
cause leading to the termination. Unacceptable behavior may lead to immediate dismissal without warning.
Depending on the nature of the behavior, it may also be addressed by a verbal warning, followed by a written
warning, and ending in a dismissal. Warnings will discuss the objectionable behavior and the consequences of
this behavior. Volunteers will have the opportunity to explain their actions at the time the warning is issued. In
general, failure to adhere to policies of CRC is cause for immediate release. For lesser offenses there is
generally a three strikes rule.
Grounds for immediate dismissal may include, but are not limited to:








Gross misconduct, insubordination or refusing to properly obey instructions that are issued by the Business Office
or other Supervisors.
Willful violation of any CRC rule, policy or procedure
Reporting for a volunteer assignment under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Theft of property or misuse of agency funds, equipment or materials.
Falsifying statements on the application or during the interview process.
Illegal, violent or unsafe acts.
Abuse or mistreatment of birds, visitors, volunteers or staff.
Unwillingness to support and further the mission of the organization.
Dress & Public Presentation
Anyone representing CRC should behave and appear in a manner appropriate with the nature of the
organization and their position. Whenever acting as a representative of or spokesperson for CRC to the public,
volunteers should behave in a manner that is respectful. It should be kept in mind that our clients are families
and children, and our reputation is our greatest asset in reaching these clients. As part of a code of behavior,
CRC representatives must dress in a manner that demonstrates the same respect. There are many positions
within CRC and the dress should be appropriate to the position or per the manual for that position. Those in
contact with or visible to the public should always be conscious of the fact that their dress, behavior, language
and manners will be interpreted as representative of the entire organization.
Name Tags
Volunteers should wear a name tag at all times while representing CRC on or offsite. If you lose or misplace
your name tag, notify the Business Office to have a replacement tag ordered. Temporary tags are available on
the Volunteer Notice Board.
Standards of Conduct
By accepting to volunteer with us, you have a responsibility to CRC, its staff, board and to your fellow volunteers
to adhere to certain guidelines for conduct. When each person is aware that he or she can fully depend upon
fellow volunteers to follow the rules of conduct, then our organization will be a better place to volunteer for
everyone.
Unacceptable Activities: Generally speaking, CRC expects each person to act in a mature and responsible way
at all times. However, to avoid any possible confusion, some of the more obvious unacceptable activities are
noted below. Your avoidance of these activities will be to your benefit as well as the benefit of CRC. If a
volunteer violates any rules established by CRC, including the following rules, that person may be subject to
discipline up to and including immediate discharge.










Willful violation of any agency rule; any deliberate action that is extreme in nature and is obviously detrimental to CRC.
Negligence or any careless action that endangers the life or safety of another person or bird.
Excessive tardiness or absenteeism.
Insubordination or refusing to obey instructions properly issued by your Supervisor or the Business Office.
CRC does not authorize and will not tolerate any form of harassment
Threatening, intimidating or coercing fellow volunteers on or off the premises – at any time, for any purpose.
Theft of agency property or the property of fellow volunteers; unauthorized possession or removal of any agency
property, including documents, from the premises without prior permission from management; unauthorized use of
agency equipment or property for personal reasons; using agency equipment for profit.
Dishonesty; willful falsification or misrepresentation on your application for volunteering or other volunteer records.
Breach of confidentiality of personnel information.
Engaging in behavior designed to create discord and lack of harmony; willfully restricting volunteer participation or
encouraging others to do the same.
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Time Logs & Scheduling
Volunteers are required to log their hours on a Time Log each time they complete volunteer work. The logs are
kept in a cabinet in the Rehabilitation Building. All time logs are kept in this location to be made accessible to
the Business Office and to encourage all volunteers to look at the Volunteer Notice Board maintained in the
same building. Volunteer hours are critical to obtaining grants and funding for CRC; the ASC (Arts & Science
Council) provides 10% of CRC’s annual budget and requires reporting of all volunteer hours. Please be sure to
complete your Time Log and total your hours each month and at the end of each three month period.
Vehicle Policy & Coverage
Volunteers whose volunteer work requires operation of a motor vehicle must present and maintain a valid
driver’s license and a driving record acceptable to our insurer. Any changes in your driving record must be
reported to the Business Office immediately. No one under the age of 18 may drive a CRC vehicle.
Prior to driving a CRC vehicle, volunteers must submit a Motor Vehicle Report (MVR), fill out the CRC driving
agreement and, if the volunteer will conduct CRC business while driving their own vehicle, a copy of their liability
insurance to the Business Office. Approval for driving will be dependent on MVR and terms laid out in the
driving policies and agreement form. Your MVR will also be submitted to our insurer for review and, once
approved, the volunteer will be added to our Auto Policy. If an accident occurs while the volunteer is driving a
CRC vehicle, CRC’s auto policy is applied. If an accident occurs while the volunteer is conducting CRC
business in their own vehicle, their insurance is primary and CRC’s insurance is secondary.
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Communication
CRC is committed to providing open lines of communication between Volunteers, Board Members & Staff.
Below are communication tools to be used by CRC and volunteers to keep the lines of communication open and
flowing. If you have ideas or suggestions of ways to further improve communications, please share them with
the Business Office or your supervisor.
Email
All new volunteers with an email address will be added to CRC’s All Volunteer Email Distribution Listing. The
Business Office using this list will distribute information that needs to be shared with all volunteers. If at all
possible, email updates are limited to one a week.
Evaluations & Reviews
Evaluations are used throughout the organization – from Orientation to training in each area, CRC values your
opinion and works constantly to make necessary improvements. Please complete all evaluations requested –
your input is vital to making CRC’s volunteer program a success for all!
Reviews will be done with volunteers on at least an annual basis. Depending on the area you volunteer in and
your responsibilities, reviews may be conducted more often.
Newsletter
The Volunteer Newsletter is distributed through email and/or mail to all volunteers six times a year respectively –
January, March, May, July, September, and November. Volunteers are encouraged to make submissions of
articles, information, websites, stories, etc to be considered for publication. Please read each newsletter – it
provides important information on all aspects of the Volunteer Program.
Volunteer Assignment Board
A Volunteer Assignment Board, in the Rehabilitation building upstairs hallway, shows the volunteers that are
actively participating in each area on a regular basis. The staff maintains this board – the Supervisor of each
area is responsible for making updates and changes. All areas are listed – Rehabilitation, Resident Raptor
Keeper, Administrative, Grounds & Maintenance, Visitor Services, Docent, and Exhibits.
Volunteer Notice Board
The Volunteer Notice Board, located in the downstairs hallway of the Rehabilitation Building, is our official way
of keeping everyone informed about new policies, changes in procedures, recognition items, and special events.
Information of general interest is posted regularly on the board. Please read the volunteer notice board
regularly so that you will be familiar with the information posted on it.
If you have information to share, please post it on the board upstairs in the kitchen.
Volunteer to Staff Communication Form
In the bin under the Volunteer Notice Board you will find copies of the Neon Green Volunteer to Staff
Communication Form. Please feel free to use these forms frequently and don’t forget they can be used to
comment on positive actions by a fellow volunteer or staff member.
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Volunteer Events Committee (VEC)
CRC values the time and hard work volunteers invest in the organization. As a way to recognize and show
appreciation, CRC has a budget set aside to invest in events for the volunteers. These events may consist of
recognition and award ceremonies, picnics, field trips, parties, etc. The Volunteer Events Committee consists of
volunteers from different areas and the Business Office staff. The goal of the committee is to assist the Director
of Volunteer Services in choosing, planning and coordinating events for the volunteers. The committee will
meet at least four times a year (once a quarter) respectively to make plans and delegate responsibilities. If you
would like to join the committee, please contact the Business Office.
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Guest Visit Procedure
CRC has a very large group of wonderful people involved as volunteers, board and staff that
are excited to share their experience and love for CRC with others by bringing them to visit
the center. Your involvement, hard work and support for CRC is something special to share
and CRC welcomes those visits!!
PUBLIC AREAS: Immediate family members, when visiting the center with you, are
admitted at no charge to walk the display trail and see all the regularly scheduled programs
including Weathering Area, Behind the Scenes Tour, Trail Trivia Tour, and Meet the Keeper.
Other guests are asked to pay the normal admission fees.
NON-PUBLIC AREAS: The Guest Visit Procedure will help coordinate all guests (which
includes spouse, children, family, friends, co-workers, etc.) that visit non-public areas with
volunteers, board or staff (outside of normal programs or business).
Please follow the steps below and complete the Guest Visit Form (on back) at least 24
hours prior to bringing a guest to visit a non-public area.
Step 1: Complete Guest Visit Form (on back) and submit to one of the following staff to review & sign at least
24 hours prior to the visit:
Jim Warren, COO
Karen Carter, Director of Business Office
Mathias Engelmann, Director of Rehabilitation
Nicki Dardinger, Director of Husbandry and Training
Step 2: Once reviewed and signed by one of the above, you will be given a copy of the Guest Visit Form and
the original will be placed in a binder at the Admissions Desk along with the Guest Badge(s).
Step 3: Meet your visitor at the Admissions Desk where they can sign in and receive their Guest Badge, which
must be visibly displayed at all times in non-public areas. Be sure to go over the Guidelines with your guest
before going to any non-public area. *Remember you must be with your guest at all times when in nonpublic areas and you are responsible for making sure they know and follow all rules.
Thank you for your support of CRC and for
introducing others to the work being done for the
birds, the environment and the community!!
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Guest Visit Form
To be completed by Volunteer, Board, or Staff at least 24 hours prior to
bringing a guest to visit a non-public area:
Your Name: ____________________________________ Phone #: __________________
Your Guests Name(s): _______________________________________________________
Date and Time of visit: _________________________________
GUIDELINES – Please read and sign below:
1. Guests are allowed to visit the following non-public areas with your supervision:
a. Education Bird Mews along gravel road – guest must remain three feet away from mew.
b. Rehab Lobby & hallway (may show freezer).
c. Resident Bird Care room (may enter after knocking and only if there are no birds).
2. Do not visit the mews behind the Rehab Building or the Isolation Rooms in Rehab.
3. Be sure to go over the following with your Guest(s):
a. We do not pet the birds
b. Smoking is only permitted in the parking lot on the gravel.
c. Please obey the speed limit in the park.
I have read and will follow the above Guidelines:
Your Signature: _______________________ Today’s Date: __________
Present form to one of the following on staff at least 24 hours prior to the visit:
Jim Warren, Karen Carter, Mathias Engelmann, Nicki Dardinger
Staff will review, sign, give copy to requestor, and put original in book at
Admissions with badges.
Signed by (print name): ____________________ Today’s Date: __________
Signature: ___________________________
Sign In – Day of Visit
Guest(s): ____________________________________________________
Volunteer, Board Member, Staff: _________________________________
Volunteer Handbook version 1/2009
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Volunteer Handbook version 1/2009
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