Terms and Conditions for Volunteers at Penn Cove Musselfest Infrastructure
These Terms and Conditions ("Terms") outline the expectations, responsibilities, and legal agreements for individuals volunteering with the Coupeville Historic Waterfront Association ("CHWA" or "the Organization") in partnership with Penn Cove Shellfish for the Penn Cove Musselfest Infrastructure ("the Activity"). By participating as a volunteer, you agree to abide by these Terms. The Organization reserves the right to update these Terms at any time, and continued participation implies acceptance of any changes.
1. Eligibility and Application
Age Requirement: Volunteers must be at least 18 years old due to physical tasks and safety considerations, or if under 18, be accompanied by a responsible adult.
Application Process: All volunteers must complete an application form via the penncovemusselfest.com website or through CHWA.
Health and Fitness: Volunteers must be in good physical health and disclose any medical conditions that could affect participation, such as lifting heavy items or standing for extended periods.
Skills and Training: Volunteers should be willing to perform manual labor and complete mandatory orientation and safety training provided by the Organization.
2. Volunteer Responsibilities
Duties: Volunteers will cover essential areas such as setup (e.g., assembling tents, barriers, and signage), break down (disassembling and storing equipment), barrier guards (monitoring access points for safety and flow), garbage patrol (collecting and sorting waste to maintain cleanliness), and general event help (assisting with miscellaneous tasks as needed). Specific duties will be based on skills, availability, and Event needs.
Conduct: Maintain a professional, courteous, and respectful demeanor at all times toward participants, staff, and fellow volunteers. No discrimination, harassment, or disruptive behavior will be tolerated. Volunteers must adhere to the Organization's code of conduct, including promoting a safe and efficient environment.
Compliance: Follow all instructions from Activity coordinators or staff. Comply with local laws, Event policies, and safety guidelines (e.g., proper lifting techniques and waste management protocols).
Confidentiality: Do not disclose sensitive information about Event operations or participants without permission.
Availability and Check-In/Out: Commit to scheduled shifts and arrive at your station 5 minutes early, staying 5 minutes after for handoff. All volunteers must check in at the Masonic Lodge with the Volunteer Coordinator before proceeding to assigned locations—allow ample time. At the end of your shift, check out through the Masonic Lodge to return any equipment and request letters verifying volunteer time.
3. Safety and Risk Acknowledgment
Inherent Risks: The Activity involves risks such as physical exertion (e.g., lifting, bending), weather exposure, crowds, or handling equipment and waste. Volunteers acknowledge these risks and participate at their own peril.
Safety Equipment and Procedures: Use any provided safety gear (e.g., gloves, vests, tools) as directed. Report hazards, equipment issues, or incidents immediately. Familiarize yourself with emergency protocols, including crowd management and first aid.
Hygiene and Health: Follow hygiene guidelines, especially for garbage patrol, to prevent injury or exposure to waste.
Insurance: The Organization provides limited liability insurance for volunteers during assigned activities. Volunteers are responsible for their own health, travel, and personal property insurance.
4. Liability Waiver and Release
Waiver: By volunteering, you waive any claims against the Organization, Penn Cove Shellfish, their staff, affiliates, sponsors, or other volunteers for injury, loss, or damage arising from participation, except in cases of gross negligence.
Indemnification: You agree to indemnify the Organization and its partners against any claims resulting from your actions or omissions, such as improper setup or waste handling.
Photo/Video Release: The Organization may capture and use photos or videos of volunteers for promotional purposes related to the Event. If you object, notify the coordinator in writing prior to your shift.
5. Termination and Disciplinary Action
Termination: The Organization may terminate volunteer participation at any time for violations of these Terms, unsafe behavior, poor performance, or other reasons.
No Compensation: Volunteering is unpaid and voluntary; no employment relationship is implied. Limited reimbursements for pre-approved expenses may be available.
Dispute Resolution: Any disputes will be resolved through informal mediation with CHWA coordinators, or if necessary, under the laws of the State of Washington.
6. Environmental and Ethical Commitments
Sustainability: Promote eco-friendly practices aligned with the Event's focus on local shellfish, such as proper waste sorting during garbage patrol and minimizing environmental impact during setup/breakdown.
Community Focus: Uphold the Event's emphasis on celebrating the local traditions by ensuring a clean, safe, and well-organized environment for all attendees.
7. Acceptance
By signing or electronically agreeing to these Terms (e.g., via the volunteer application), you confirm you have read, understood, and accept them. For questions, contact the CHWA volunteer coordinator through this website.
