Contra Costa Animal Services Volunteer Manual

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Contra Costa Animal Services

Volunteer Manual

Rev 08/21/2021

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Table of Contents

Introduction …………………………………..……………………………………………………………………………..……….. 3

About CCAS ………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………… 3

Shelter Details ……………………………………………………………………………………………………..……..…. 3

Floor Plan ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………….……… 4

Mission …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………....……. 5

Guiding Principles ……………………………………………………………………………………………..……..……. 5

Our Pledge to Volunteers ……………………………………………………………………………………………….. 6

Volunteer Policies ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..… 7

Standards of Conduct …………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 7

Volunteer Commitment …………………………………………………………………………………………………. 7

Customer Service Expectations ………………………………………………………………………………………. 8

Animal Interaction Expectations …………………………………………………………………………………….. 8

Dress Code …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 8

Other Departmental/County Policies ……………………………………………………………………………… 9

Volunteer Discipline Statement ……………………………………………………………………………………… 9

Volunteer Experience …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 10

Role of the Volunteer Coordinator …………………………………………………………………………………. 10

Volunteer Onboarding ……………………………………………………………………………………..…………….. 10

Volunteer Opportunities ………………………………………………………………………….………………...….. 10

Minimum Commitment ………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 15

Volunteer Scheduling .…………………………………………………………………………… ……..………………. 15

Logging Volunteer Hours ………………………………………………………………………………..…..…………. 16

Volunteer Communication……………………………………………………………………………………..………. 16

Safety……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….…….. 18

Personal Safety………………………………………………………………………………………………………….……. 18

Animal Safety……………………………………………………………………………………………………………….…. 18

Facility Safety………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 18

Threats, Violence or Suspicious Activity……………………………………………………………………….…. 19

What to do if Injured Volunteering at CCAS………………………………………………………………….… 19

Acknowledgement ……….…………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 20

A) Contra Costa County Administrative Bulletin: County Volunteer Programs …………………

B) Contra Costa County Administrative Bulletin: Internet Usage Policy …………………………...

C) CCAS Volunteer Computer Responsibility Statement …………………………………………………..

D) CCAS Chameleon Usage Guidelines ……………………………………………………………………………..

E) CCAS Social Media Posting Guidelines ………………………………………………………………………….

F) CCAS Patron Conduct Policy …………………………………………………….………………………………….

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Introduction

Welcome to Contra Costa Animal Services (CCAS). It is our pleasure to welcome you as a volunteer. The

purpose of this document is to introduce you to our mission, vision, and to explain some important rules

and expectations for volunteers.

Contra Costa Animal Services recognizes our volunteers are the true heart and soul of our organization.

It would be impossible to accomplish our mission of saving lives without the sacrifices you make on

behalf of our animals and the public we serve. Your complete unselfishness in giving your time, talents

and treasures is beyond compare and truly drives the success of our organization. Together, we play an

important role in enriching the lives of people and animals in Contra Costa County and beyond.

About CCAS

The Animal Services Department has a long history in Contra Costa County. In 1959 Animal Control (as it

was called then), consisting of five employees, was re-assigned from the Sheriff's Office authority to the

County Agriculture Department. Animal Services became its own County department in 1985.

The original shelter was located one block from where we are now on the eastern edge of Martinez. In

May 2005, a beautiful two acre, state of the art shelter complex and six-stall barn with open corral area,

totaling more than 38,000 square feet, was dedicated by the Board of Supervisors and local dignitaries.

Today, our Field Services are provided 365 days a year, 24 hours a day. We serve the unincorporated

areas and 18 cities who contract with CCAS for Animal Services. With a staff of over 80, and a team of

dedicated volunteers, we cover over 800 square miles of land, with 1 million residents and growing. That

is all of Contra Costa County, apart from Antioch.

Shelter Details

Location: 4800 Imhoff Pl. Martinez 94553

Phone: 925-608-8400

Website: www.ccasd.org

Facebook: www.facebook.com/ccasd

Hours of Operation:

Tuesday – Saturday: 10:00am – 5:00pm

Wednesday: 10:00am – 7:00pm

Sundays and Mondays: Closed

Volunteer Coordinator

Stefani Buzzard

Office: 925-608-8435

Work cell: 925-494-5066

St[email protected]

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Floor Plan

pg. 5

Mission Statement

Contra Costa County Animal Services Department is committed to protecting the health, safety and well-

being of all people and animals in our community through enforcement of state and local laws,

providing compassionate care for every animal regardless of its temperament or condition, and reducing

the number of animals that enter our County shelters.

We will shelter homeless, abandoned, and lost animals, work to keep and place animals in safe, caring

homes, and provide education and services to enhance the lives of people, their animal companions,

and to strengthen the human-animal bond.

Contra Costa County Animal Services Department will accomplish our mission by:

• Protecting the citizens of Contra Costa County from animal related diseases and from animal

injury.

• Preventing animal cruelty, abuse, and neglect.

• Providing humane care and treatment of all animals in accordance with the Association of

Shelter Veterinarians Guidelines and following the Five Freedoms.

• Striving to decrease our shelter intake, increase our live release rates and to reserve euthanasia

for animals that have serious medical conditions with great suffering, or behavior issues that

pose a threat to the public's health and safety and the animal's well-being.

• Keeping animals in their homes by providing resources and active counseling for owners,

especially those who are considering surrender.

• Increasing licensing and micro-chipping efforts to assist owners in reuniting with their lost pets.

• Providing spay/neuter services to reduce pet overpopulation.

• Educating the public about responsible pet ownership, including preventative medicine,

spay/neuter, and vaccinations.

• Providing high-quality customer service and treating all individuals with respect, professional

courtesy, and integrity.

• Creating collaborative partnerships that further our mission and increase our ability to serve the

people and animals of Contra Costa County.

CCAS Guiding Principles

Guiding principles help shape the culture of our organization, and they can help drive decision making in

all that we do. Our guiding principles help us to ensure our long-term culture and to develop consistency

in helping us to make good organizational choices.

Our community is comprised of the CCAS team (staff and volunteers) and the people and animals in

Contra Costa County. Without supporting each other and valuing the people who walk through our door

or contact us by phone/email, we cannot help the animals.

1. BE COLLABORATIVE - When we work jointly with others to create or produce something, a sense of

purpose arises and partnerships for future efforts are formed. When this happens, an organization

begins to move forward with unified commitment meaning members understand and accept a common

purpose as their own. Effective managers encourage team members to work jointly whenever

appropriate. They also support the team in understanding and considering others’ interests and needs

as well as provide opportunities to surface and address conflicting views.

2. BE THE SERVICE YOU WANT - We demonstrate customer care when we offer complete solutions for

our county’s residents that enhance the quality of their companion animals’ lives. Operating as a

relationship-based service, not one based on transactions alone, we strive to anticipate internal and

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external customer needs before they identify them. Our shelter guests always feel safe and appreciated.

Effective managers will help team members find and respond to opportunities for sustaining internal

and external customer satisfaction and loyalties. Caring managers will ensure that all actions, behaviors,

and communication from and between team members continually express the understanding that all

our shelter guests are worthwhile.

3. PRACTICE THE THREE E’S: EXCITE, EDUCATE, EMPOWER - When we can create in ourselves and

others, feelings of enthusiasm and an eagerness to engage, then we are practicing our ability to EXCITE

self and others. This positive energy can be aligned to bring about quality execution of innovative

approaches to problems, events, and programs. By giving others the authority or power to do something

we can help make them feel stronger and more confident. EMPOWERING others gives freedom to new

thoughts and ideas to help make CCAS even more effective and efficient. And when we EDUCATE others

with new knowledge, we can open doors to release their inherent abilities.

4. APPLY JUDGMENT - Effective application of judgement is the product of continuous improvement of

our critical thinking skills. Critical thinking is a way of thinking about any subject, project, problem, etc.

where we improve the quality of our thinking by skillfully analyzing, assessing, and even reconstructing it

as we allow new information to influence the situation. Critical thinking skills such as testing our

assumptions to validate our beliefs, testing data for completeness, or testing our positions for any holes

or flaws increase our ability to effectively move through challenging situations, events, or problems.

Effective managers encourage the team to question “why” something is done a particular way which can

lead to breakthrough changes. Critical thinking is self-directed, self-monitored and self-corrected.

5. SEIZE THE INITIATIVE - When we engage ambiguous circumstances, or uncertain situations, to

address them directly—rather than waiting for interpretation or direction from others—we “take

initiative”. In stepping forward to act we are demonstrating our commitment, ability to influence and

be creative. Effective managers help employees “see” the situation in a way that enables them to make

decisions and take actions, reflect on results, and realign, which supports CCAS’ future direction.

6. MAKE THE MOST OF RESOURCES - We make the most of our resources when decisions and actions

result in every resource (people, money, equipment, etc.) being used at the highest level of

effectiveness and efficiency. Effective managers understand that cost cutting is not the only solution,

because some shelter opportunities justify the investment of additional resources. To continually

optimize all our resources requires managers to work collaboratively with their team to find the most

efficient ways to innovate and improve CCAS’s service to communities and animals in our service area.

Our Pledge to Our Volunteers

CCAS is dedicated to creating a pleasant, helpful, and fun environment in which our volunteers are

utilized at all levels of the agency. We respect your time and skills and strive to make your experience

with us productive and rewarding. We also encourage regular participation and value dependability in

all our volunteers. We strongly encourage you to challenge yourselves and develop to your full

potential. In addition, we will participate in ongoing, reciprocal exchanges of information and ideas with

our volunteers to actively increase the level of quality services that save lives, increase public awareness,

and educate our community. Thank you for your commitment and dedication to CCAS!

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Volunteer Policies

By accepting your role as a CCAS volunteer, you have a responsibility to this agency, staff, and your

fellow volunteers to adhere to certain guidelines. The purpose of these rules is not to restrict your

rights, but rather to be certain that you understand what conduct is expected and necessary. 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 for everyone. If you have any questions, please see your

volunteer coordinator for explanation.

Volunteer Standard of Conduct

Generally speaking, we always expect each person to act in a mature and responsible way. However, to

avoid any possible confusion, some of the more obvious expectations are noted below. Your adherence

to these guidelines will be to your benefit as well as the benefit of our organization.

• Volunteers will demonstrate teamwork and maintain open, honest, and professional

communication with the public, staff, and fellow volunteers.

• Volunteers will maintain a positive attitude, and support an inclusive environment in which all

staff, volunteers, and visitors feel respected and connected to one another and to CCAS.

• CCAS is committed to providing an environment free of harassment. Harassment of any kind,

including harassment on the basis of sex, race, color, religion, gender, age, mental and/or

physical ability, medical condition, national origin, marital status, veteran status, sexual

orientation, or any other characteristic protected under federal or state law or local ordinance

will not be tolerated at CCAS.

• Volunteers act as representatives of CCAS and are expected to approach the needs of our

animals and customers with compassion, sensitivity, dignity and without judgment.

• Confidential information including names, addresses, emails, and telephone numbers of staff,

the public, our transfer partners, or other volunteers is not to be disclosed to any third party at

any time.

• Volunteers will leave personal baggage and politics at the door and come ready to work.

• No volunteer may represent CCAS to the media without prior consent from a manager.

Volunteer Commitment

We expect each CCAS Volunteer to be committed and ready to work each time you schedule yourself to

volunteer. Remember, you are here for a purpose and to enhance the experience of the public, staff,

and your fellow volunteers. Here are some general tips to help guide you:

• Volunteers must comply with the policies and procedures of Contra Costa County and Contra

Costa Animal Services, and all written instructions provided by CCAS staff.

• Volunteers will know and follow the rules for the activities in which they are participating.

• Volunteers accept personal responsibility for their actions and understand that failure to abide

by these policies and procedures may result in termination of volunteer services.

• Volunteers will treat equipment and facilities with respect.

• Individuals with criminal records involving violence or abuse, drugs, crimes against children,

cruelty to animals, or assault may not volunteer for CCAS.

• Any questions or criticisms regarding the volunteer program or shelter policies are to be

addressed to CCAS Volunteer Coordinator and will be promptly investigated. If this does not

generate a satisfactory response, volunteers have the option of expressing their concerns to the

Community & Media Relations Coordinator.

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• The sole purpose of the volunteer program is to support the agency. Always ask yourself “is this

(word, action, attitude) being supportive of our staff and in keeping with our guiding

principles?”

Customer Service Expectations

Contra Costa Animal Services maintains a policy of respecting staff, volunteers, and customers, serving

them in a nonbiased and sensitive manner. As a volunteer, we ask that you abide by the following

guidelines:

• Keep an open mind. Refrain from judging a customer, staff member, or fellow volunteer based

on the position they are in or the hardships they are experiencing

• Refrain from scolding customers, staff, or fellow volunteers. Always be supportive and

constructive when providing feedback

• Refrain from using confrontational expressions or reactions and try to be conscious and aware

of your verbal, physical and facial expressions. These expressions can be taken the wrong way

and have a damaging effect on the people we interact with

• Refrain from using harsh, vulgar, or offensive language, and keep political commentary out of

the shelter

• Treat others the way you would want to be treated

• Treat all customers, staff, and fellow volunteers with respect

• Refer any unusual request, complaint, or question that you do not know how to answer or are

uncomfortable answering, to the Volunteer Coordinator or another Shelter Supervisor on duty

Animal Interaction Expectations

Contra Costa Animal Services maintains a policy of treating all animals humanely and with respect. As a

volunteer we ask that you abide by the following guidelines:

• Treat all animals with respect

• Take the appropriate training before interacting with the shelter animals

• Only work with animals that you are physically able to handle

• Do not put animals in positions that are unsafe/unhealthy for them or the public

• When handling any animal, always offer them a choice to interact with you or others. If an

animal is moving away or leaning away, cease the interaction and try something else

Dress Code

Please remember volunteers are representatives of the agency, and therefore must dress appropriately.

Volunteers are to maintain a clean and neat appearance and be easily identified by a volunteer ID badge

and an apron or volunteer t-shirt (provided by CCAS) when volunteering in all programs. Volunteers

must wear closed-toed shoes and long pants when on-site for safety purposes. Volunteers are not to

wear excessively torn or dirty clothing, clothing with inappropriate slogans or graphics, or clothing that

is revealing or immodest in any way. No bare midriffs or low-cut shirts.

If you have pets at home, you may consider keeping “shelter shoes/ clothes” in your car or garage. By

not exposing your pets to these items and washing/disinfecting them promptly after each shelter visit,

you minimize the risk of cross contamination.

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Other County/Departmental Policies Volunteers Must Follow

The following Departmental/County policies also require strict adherence by CCAS Volunteers. These

policies can be found in the Appendix of this Volunteer Manual:

1. Contra Costa County Administrative Bulletin: County Volunteer Programs (Appendix: A)

2. Contra Costa County Administrative Bulletin: Internet Usage Policy (Appendix: B)

3. CCAS Volunteer Computer Responsibility Statement (Appendix: C)

4. CCAS Chameleon Usage Guidelines (Appendix: D)

5. CCAS Social Media Posting Guidelines (Appendix: E)

6. CCAS Patron Conduct Policy (Appendix: F)

Volunteer Discipline Statement

Volunteers who do not adhere to the rules and procedures of the agency, or who do not satisfactorily

perform their volunteer assignments, are subject to discipline and/or dismissal. Disciplinary action shall

range from verbal warnings to immediate discharge, depending on the seriousness of the offense in the

judgement of management.

Prohibited Behaviors: Contra Costa Animal Services maintains a safe and inclusive environment for

volunteers, staff, and customers. All volunteers serve Contra Costa County at will, and either the County

or the volunteer may terminate the arrangement at any time. Behaviors that are unacceptable for

volunteers include, but are not limited to:

• Abuse, neglect, or cruelty to any animal, whether that animal resides at the shelter or not

• Abuse or mistreatment of volunteers, staff, or customers

• Gross misconduct or insubordination

• Reporting for a volunteer assignment under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs or drugs not

prescribed to them

• Theft of property or misuse of agency funds, equipment, or materials

• Falsifying statements on the volunteer application or during the interview process

• Illegal, violent, or unsafe acts

• Releasing confidential information

• Unwillingness to support and further the mission of Contra Costa Animal Services

• Failure to report an animal bite to the Volunteer Coordinator or appropriate staff member

• Speaking with the media in your role as a CCAS volunteer or department representative

• Failure to adhere to agency policies and procedures

TERMINATION

CCAS reserves the right to refuse volunteer opportunities to any individual or group. CCAS also reserves

the right to terminate a volunteer’s service at any time and for any reason.

pg. 10

Your Volunteer Experience

Role of the Volunteer Coordinator

The CCAS Volunteer Coordinator is responsible for recruiting and onboarding new volunteers, training

volunteers, and assigning tasks to CCAS volunteers. Additionally, the Volunteer Coordinator provides

oversight of the CCAS volunteer division, supervising all volunteers and volunteer programs, and is

responsible for leading communication with volunteers. The CCAS Volunteer Coordinator is also

responsible for maintaining the volunteer database (Volgistics) and maintaining all volunteer and

volunteer division records.

Volunteer Onboarding Process

The Volunteer onboarding process varies slightly depending upon the assignment in which a volunteer

would like to participate. In general, there are three types of volunteers, and volunteers are not

restricted to only one type:

• In-Shelter Volunteer

o In-shelter volunteers make up the majority of CCAS volunteers. These volunteers may

provide service at the Martinez shelter, they may provide services virtually from home,

or they may help with offsite events. These are all considered in-shelter volunteers

• Foster Volunteer

o Dog and cat/kitten fosters provide temporary care for shelter animals, to include

underage kittens, sick/injured animals, and any other animal deemed an eligible foster

candidate by shelter staff

• Group Volunteer

o Group volunteers are volunteers with another organization that has partnered with

CCAS

Generally speaking, potential volunteers may submit an application online at www.ccasd.org to join the

CCAS Volunteer Program. To expedite the process, potential volunteers may be asked to review, print,

and sign the necessary documents, and follow the instruction provided by staff to complete the

onboarding process specific to the assignment in which they are interested in.

Necessary training varies by assignment and is listed below in Volunteer Opportunities. In-shelter

volunteers are provided with access to Volgistics, upon completion of Day One Foundation Training.

Volgistics is the volunteer management software that allows volunteers to manage their own volunteer

account and access the training and/or immediate volunteer opportunities available to them. Foster and

Group Volunteers are not provided access to Volgistics, as they are not responsible for their own

scheduling or logging service hours.

Volunteer Opportunities

CCAS provides a broad range of volunteer opportunities. Volunteer Assignments are broken in to 3

categories, and volunteers may participate in multiple assignments at any given time.

• Foundation Level Assignments

These assignments are available for volunteers to start signing up immediately upon completion

of their initial Day One Foundation training. Volunteers are provided with on-the-job orientation

at the start of their shift.

pg. 11

• Core Level Assignments

These assignments require additional training and/or shadow sessions. Volunteers will have the

ability to sign up for these assignments only after completion of the specific training indicated

by the assignment minimum requirements.

• Foster Assignments

These assignments require varying levels of orientation/training, depending upon the type of

animal being fostered. Volunteers will work directly with staff to determine the most

appropriate foster animal and/or opportunity.

The following is a list of the volunteer opportunities offered at CCAS and minimum requirements.

Foundation Assignments

Assignment

Description

Minimum Requirements

Enrichment

Support

Volunteers provide in-kennel enrichment to animals,

such as making or dispensing ice cubes, KONGS, frisbee’s,

and more.

• Day One Orientation

• Additional orientation

provided by staff.

Shelter

Support

Assist Shelter Staff when needed by sweeping/mopping

floors throughout the shelter. Wash and put away

dishes. Wash and fold laundry. Rake leaves and sweep

sidewalks. Clean windows in the Gallery area. Manage in-

kind donation program, sort items donated and dispose

of unusable items. Help to distribute needed items per

direction by Sr. Animal Care Technicians or Center Ops

Supervisor/Mgr.

• Day One Orientation

• Additional orientation

provided by staff

Administrative

Projects

Volunteers assist staff with administrative duties, such as

filing & record-keeping, transcribing documents, or

preparing for meetings or trainings.

• Day One Orientation

• Additional orientation

provided by staff or an

experienced volunteer

Transport

Volunteer drivers help to transport shelter animals for

adoption/marketing events, vetting at pre-approved off-

site locations, or transfer to other agencies, including

out-of-state transfer partners.

• Day One Orientation

• Auto Insurance Declaration

page indicating authorized

to drive

• Copy of Driver’s License

• Proof of Auto Insurance

• Oath of Allegiance

Marketing

Support

Volunteers help us tell a story through photographs and

articles shared to our website and social media

platforms. Volunteers may accompany dog or cat

volunteers to take photos and video of available animals,

add Adoption Bio information, reprint, and replace

kennel cards, and display marketing material throughout

the shelter.

• Day One Orientation

• Additional orientation

provided by staff or an

experienced volunteer

pg. 12

Core Assignments

Assignment

Description

Min Requirement

Dog Walking

Volunteers provide both mental and physical enrichment

for our shelter animals. Volunteers walk dogs in a variety

of weather conditions and provide both in-kennel and

out-of-kennel enrichment. They may ensure kennel is

free of solid feces before returning dog to kennel.

Volunteers may also provide adoption counseling to

match available animals with potential adopters

• Day One Orientation

• Completion of all assigned

independent learning

• Dog Shadow Sessions

• Skills Verification

Assessment

Cat Socializing

Volunteers provide both mental and physical enrichment

for our shelter animals. Volunteers provide socialization

to cats housed alone or in community cat rooms to

reduce stress and provide an enriching environment for

our shelter cats. Enrichment may include providing toys

and cat scratchers as needed. Volunteers may also

provide adoption counseling to match available animals

with potential adopters.

• Day One Orientation

• Completion of all assigned

independent learning

• Cat Shadow Sessions

• Skills Verification

Assessment

Adoption

Counselors

Volunteers review any/all available animal information

with potential adopters, guide them to an appropriate

match and provide resources to help them succeed with

their new pet.

• Day One Orientation

• Adoption Counseling

Training

• Adoption Counseling

Shadow Sessions

• Skills Verification

Assessment

Remote

Adoption Site

Volunteers provide ongoing enrichment and socialization

for the cats available for adoption at our remote

adoption sites like PetSmart and Pet Food Express.

Volunteers also help to report any changing behavioral

or medical needs.

• Day One Orientation

• Cat Shadow Sessions

• Transportation

Rabbits and

Small

Mammals

Volunteers provide socialization and toys for our shelter

rabbits and small mammals. Volunteers educate the

public on general rabbit husbandry, and discuss daily

care to include housing, diet, training, and introduction

to other pets. Volunteers may also provide adoption

counseling to match available animals with potential

adopters.

• Day One Orientation

• Rabbit Shadow Sessions

• If transporting animals:

o Auto Insurance

Declaration page

indicating authorized to

drive

o Copy of Driver’s License

o Proof of Auto Insurance

Lost and

Found

Lost and Found Volunteers manage online Lost/Found

pet reports by contacting the reporting party for

updates. They document in Chameleon, all attempts

made to reach the reporting party, and update the new

follow-up date or record the appropriate outcome.

• Day One Orientation

• Lost/Found Training

• Lost/Found Shadow

Sessions

Foster Mentor

Volunteers provide guidance to new foster volunteers,

answer questions as needed and assist fosters in the

adoption counseling process.

• Day One Orientation

• Orientation by staff or

experienced Foster Mentor

Foster

Program

Support

Volunteers contact potential fosters, provide training

and orientation, and prepare supplies for foster animals.

• Day One Orientation

• Orientation by staff or

experienced Foster Mentor

pg. 13

Core Assignments

Pet Groomer

Volunteers with professional Pet Grooming or basic pet

care experience can help to transform our shelter pets

with a bath, haircut, and nail trim.

• Day One Orientation

• Experience & equipment –

skills observed and

approved prior to

performing any functions

• Will be supervised by

Center Ops Supervisor or

Manager

Running Dog

Program

Volunteers provide physical enrichment to our more

active dogs including off-site and long-distance outings,

typically on Sundays.

• All Dog Walker

Requirements

• Shadow RDP Volunteer

• If transporting animals:

o Auto Insurance

Declaration page

indicating

authorized to drive

o Copy of Driver’s

License

o Proof of Auto

Insurance

Greeter

Volunteers greet incoming guests with a smile. They help

direct guests to the appropriate location to meet their

needs and they manage foot traffic throughout the

shelter. Volunteers may assist public by handing out

shelter maps or answering questions.

• Day One Orientation

• Nemo-Q system training

• Greeter Shadow Sessions

Mobile

Adoptions

See description for Dog or Cat Volunteer. In addition,

they are responsible for setting-up the adoption space

and processing adoptions, including all necessary record

keeping and collection of adoption fees. Volunteer may

also load animals onto, and drive, the Mobile Adoption

Vehicle.

• Day One Orientation

• Dog or Cat specific

Requirements

• Shadow Sunday Mobile

volunteer

• If transporting animals:

o Auto Insurance

Declaration page

indicating

authorized to drive

o Copy of Driver’s

License

o Proof of Auto

Insurance

Humane

Education

Volunteers are instrumental to the success of our

community outreach programs! Humane Education

Volunteers help organize shelter tours and activities, and

setup education booths at community events.

• Day One Orientation

• Demonstrate ability to lead

Shelter Tour

• Demonstrate

understanding of Guiding

Principles

pg. 14

Core Assignments

Working Cat

Program &

Return to Field

Volunteers provide guidance to working cat caretakers

for acclimation set-up and help to manage issues and

expectations. They may transport cats to their working

cat placements, or they may transport Return-to-Field

cats to the locations where they were trapped.

• Day One Orientation

• Orientation provided by

staff or an experienced

WCP or RTF volunteer.

• Mode of Transportation

• If transporting animals:

o Auto Insurance

Declaration page

indicating

authorized to drive

o Copy of Driver’s

License

o Proof of Auto

Insurance

Field Services

Support

Assist Field Staff by sweeping/mopping, wiping down

counters/cabinets and dumping trash in the intake room.

Volunteers take dirty laundry to the laundry room and to

dump trash in the Sally Port.

• Day One Orientation

• Additional field orientation

provided by Field SGT./LT.

Surgery

Recovery /

Clinic

Volunteers clean cages, prepare surgery packs, do

laundry, sweep/mop floors, wipe down

cabinets/counters and monitor animals recovering from

surgery.

• Day One Orientation

• Additional orientation

provided by medical staff

• Prior veterinary or medical

experience in a clinic

setting preferred.

Shelter

Treatment

Volunteers clean cages, sweep/mop floors, wipe down

cabinets/counters and monitor/walk animals recovering

in treatment area.

• Day One Orientation

• Additional orientation

provided by medical staff

• Prior veterinary or medical

experience in a clinic

setting preferred.

CART

The County Animal Response Team (CART) works with

the CCAS Field Services division to provide temporary

shelters for animals during emergencies.

• County Admin Bulletin

• If driving a vehicle:

o Auto Insurance

Declaration page

indicating

authorized to drive

o Copy of Driver’s

License

o Proof of Auto

Insurance

• Completion of all CART

Required Trainings &

Certifications

pg. 15

Foster Assignments

Assignment

Description

Min Requirement

Animal Foster

Volunteers provide temporary placement for sick,

injured, highly stressed, or orphaned animals.

• County Admin Bulletin

• Orientation and approval

provided by staff or Foster

Mentors

• Mode of Transportation or

driver

• If driving a vehicle:

o Auto Insurance

Declaration page

indicating

authorized to drive

o Copy of Driver’s

License

o Proof of Auto

Insurance

Field Trips

Volunteers pick up available dogs for short trips away

from the shelter, then return the dogs the same day.

• County Admin Bulletin

• Orientation and approval

provided by staff or Foster

Mentors

• Mode of Transportation

• If driving a vehicle:

o Auto Insurance

Declaration page

indicating

authorized to drive

o Copy of Driver’s

License

o Proof of Auto

Insurance

Minimum Commitment

The CCAS Volunteer Program accepts volunteers 18 years of age or older. For in-shelter volunteers, we

require a minimum commitment of 8 hours of volunteer service per month, for at least six months. This

is to maintain a strong and experienced volunteer force and keep you familiar with the processes at the

shelter. For Foster volunteers, we require a minimum of 8 hours per year to remain active.

Volunteer Scheduling

In-Shelter Volunteers utilize VicNET to access their volunteer information. VicNET is a portal within

Volgistics, where volunteers can view and update their personal contact information, access important

documentation, add/remove themselves from the schedule or trainings, and more.

When a volunteer signs up for a shift opening, other volunteers and the animals are counting on them to

show up. If the volunteer is unable to come in for a scheduled shift, they are to remove themselves from

the schedule as soon as possible, to allow for another volunteer to take their place. If the cancellation is

less than 48hrs prior to the start of the shift, volunteers are to also notify the appropriate CCAS

Volunteer Coordinator or staff member (if assigned to a particular division).

pg. 16

CCAS does not accept walk in volunteers. Volunteers must agree not to arrive at CCAS without having

scheduled a volunteer shift. Volunteers are not to bring anyone to accompany them during a volunteer

shift who has not been previously trained or scheduled.

Volunteers agree and understand that any work performed will be provided on a voluntary basis and

that there is no expectation of payment or other compensation for performing such work. Volunteers

also agree and understand that a volunteer position does not constitute an employee-employer

relationship with Contra Costa County and that volunteers serve at the discretion of the Animal Services

Director or designee.

Volunteers are to notify the Volunteer Coordinator in the event they choose to resign from volunteer

service at CCAS.

Logging Volunteer Hours

Foster and Group volunteer service is logged on behalf of the volunteer, and these volunteers should

not log their own foster or group hours.

On-Site Logging of Service

For all service hours completed on-site at the Martinez shelter, volunteers are to use the VicTouch

system to clock in upon arrival and clock out prior to leaving. To use VicTouch, the volunteer must enter

the PIN number issued during the onboarding process (assigned upon completion of Day One Training).

There is a “VicTouch” shortcut on all volunteer computers, and a touch screen monitor in the volunteer

office. If a volunteer does not have a PIN, or needs help using VicTouch, they should contact the

Volunteer Coordinator for assistance.

Off-Site Logging of Service

Volunteers who are providing service offsite (i.e., adoption events, microchip clinics, work from home,

etc.) can log their hours using the Volgistics VicNET system, which can be accessed from a desktop

computer, tablet, or mobile phone. To log your hours remotely, log into VicNET using your username

(email) and password and enter the hours into the “Timesheet” tab.

For all service hours completed off-site, volunteers are to log service hours the same day as the service

provided.

Volunteer Communication

CCAS values solid communication between the Department and our volunteers. As such, we have

established the following official channels of communication between staff and volunteers:

Volgistics Volunteer Email Lists

Email is the primary form of communication to CCAS volunteers. Through the Department’s volunteer

management system, Volgistics, we can send emails to our entire volunteer roster, or to individuals or

groups of volunteers, depending on the subject matter. Should a volunteer unsubscribe from receiving

emails, they may miss important communications and risk becoming inactivated due to lack of service.

Volunteer Coordinator

Volunteers may call or email the Volunteer Coordinator for all matters, and the Volunteer Coordinator

may call or email volunteers directly.

pg. 17

Message Board in Volunteer Room

All important notices sent through the volunteer email list will be posted to the message board in the

CCAS Volunteer Office.

CCAS Volunteer/Shelter Working Group

The Working Group is a group of CCAS volunteers, staff, and transfer partners who meet monthly to

discuss emerging issues and provide informed responses to questions that volunteers may have. The

working group is comprised of volunteers (and one transfer partner representative) from each volunteer

area: dog enrichment, cat enrichment, transfer partner and lost and found. The group meets monthly on

the last Wednesday of each month.

Bi-Annual All Volunteer Town Hall

The All Volunteer Town Hall meetings are hosted twice each year, typically in the Winter (Dec./Jan.) and

Summer (June/July). The goal of the All Volunteer Town Hall is to update CCAS volunteers on important

departmental information and to also serve as a forum for CCAS volunteers to ask questions to the

department’s leadership. Volunteers may participate by joining online, or when available, coming to the

Martinez shelter on the day of the meeting.

pg. 18

Safety

The safety of our guests, employees, and volunteers is ALWAYS our top priority! In the event of an

emergency, CCAS staff members will give direction to all customers and volunteers. As a CCAS

volunteer, you acknowledge that you are responsible for your own safety and take responsibility for

your own actions. Volunteers agree to pay for any medical, dental, surgical, or hospital diagnosis,

treatment or care rendered for any non-industrial injuries.

You also agree to follow and uphold the following safety guidelines:

Personal Safety:

• Never knowingly engage in unsafe activities.

• Always sign in and out each day. During a disaster, the supervisor on duty will facilitate an

evacuation, taking the daily sign-in log with them. This is how all individuals will be accounted

for once safely away from the disaster.

• Always take responsibility for yourself first. CCAS staff will take action to ensure that all animals

and volunteers are safe.

• Follow proper lifting procedures and do not lift anything that is too heavy for you to move. Ask

your CCAS Volunteer Coordinator or staff supervisor for an explanation of lifting procedures. If

you are asked to move anything of substantial weight and feel comfortable doing so, bend your

knees into a squatting position and lift with your legs. Do not bend at the waist and lift with your

back as this is the primary cause of many back injuries. If you are uncomfortable lifting any item,

please decline the request and let your CCAS Volunteer Coordinator or staff supervisor know.

• Communicate any serious medical conditions you may have to the CCAS staff supervisor.

Animal Safety:

• Volunteers are not allowed to work with our animals until they have completed the appropriate

training. Always use caution and review documented information when dealing with animals to

ensure you are not taking on an animal you are unable to handle. If you are qualified to work

with an animal but feel uncomfortable doing so, communicate that and decline any request to

handle that animal.

• Volunteers are not allowed to interact with the animals in the Quarantine areas. Animals in

isolated areas may be interacted with only as needed, with prior consent from the Volunteer

Coordinator.

• Immediately communicate any injuries that occur during your volunteer shift, to the Volunteer

Coordinator or supervisor on duty. This includes bites, scratches, or other injuries to yourself or

a member of the public during your interaction with them.

Facility Safety:

• Identify and familiarize yourself with all emergency exits and safety equipment.

• Keep Paths Clear – Do not block paths and/or doorways. Blocking paths and/or doorways can be

a tripping hazard and/or cause injury to CCAS staff, volunteers, or customers. It is important to

keep paths and doorways clear in case of emergency for an evacuation and emergency crews.

• Communicate any injury or potential safety risk to the CCAS Volunteer Coordinator or staff

supervisor immediately. Staff will address the situation to solve the problem. Not identifying an

injury or potential risk can make matters worse and cause subsequent injury to yourself or

another individual.

pg. 19

Threats, Violence or Suspicious Activity:

• No volunteers should confront anyone acting threatening or suspicious. Notify a CCAS staff

member immediately, and prompt, appropriate action will be taken.

• If you see or hear anything suspicious, notify an CCAS staff member immediately.

• When leaving the premises, if you notice anyone threatening or suspicious near the facility, go

back inside the building to notify a CCAS staff member.

• CCAS is not responsible for any lost, damaged, or stolen items. CCAS recommends leaving

personal or valuable items at home when volunteering.

If Injured while Volunteering at CCAS

Any injury or incident must be reported to the Volunteer Coordinator or their designee (lead volunteer

and/or a Manager/Lieutenant on site) as soon as possible, and seek medical treatment as needed. The

volunteer will be asked to complete an incident report form as soon as possible.

If you are experiencing or witness a life-threatening emergency at any time, call 911.

• Animal Bites

An animal bite (any skin break cause by tooth) to any person, must be reported as soon as

possible. Failure to report an animal bite may result in immediate dismissal. The injured party

will be asked to speak to an officer for the purpose of creating a bite report.

• Other Injuries

All injuries that occur during your volunteer shift are to be reported to the CCAS Volunteer

Coordinator or staff supervisor as soon as possible. The injured party will be asked to complete

an incident report.

• Off-site Injuries & Emergencies

If you are experiencing a life-threatening emergency, call 911. If you are seriously injured or

experiencing an emergency while offsite (i.e., at an event etc.), contact the Sheriff’s Office

non-emergency dispatch line at 925-646-2441 for immediate assistance.

pg. 20

Volunteer Manual Acknowledgement

I have read and understand the information in the 2021 CCAS Volunteer Manual, revised 08/21/2021,

including the Appendix Items listed below.

I understand that the 2021 CCAS Volunteer Manual and/or any policy within it, is subject to revision and

modification at any time, with notice. I understand that there are additional policies and procedures

that will be communicated to me on an ongoing basis and/or when appropriate, and it is my

responsibility to be familiar with all such revisions and modifications. Should I have any questions about

such documents, I will contact the Volunteer Coordinator for clarification.

By signing my name and/or initials below, I agree to follow all procedures and regulations and abide by

all policies outlined in the 2021 CCAS Volunteer Manual including, but not limited to, the following

appendix items:

Initial

1. Contra Costa County Administrative Bulletin

County Volunteer Programs (Appendix: A)* ……………………………………………………… ____

2. Contra Costa County Administrative Bulletin

Internet Usage Policy (Appendix: B)* …………………………………………………………………. ____

3. CCAS Volunteer Computer Responsibility Statement (Appendix: C) …………………………………… ____

4. CCAS Chameleon Usage Guidelines (Appendix: D) …………………………………………………………….. ____

5. CCAS Social Media Posting Guidelines (Appendix: E) …………………………………………………………. ____

6. CCAS Patron Conduct Policy (Appendix: F) ……………………………………………………………………….. ____

*Indicates additional signature required on the individual document

I understand that failure to comply with any of these obligations may result in the termination of my

volunteer status.

Print Name: _______________________________________________ Date: _____________________

Volunteer Signature: __________________________________________________________________

CONTRA COSTA COUNTY

Office of the County Administrator

ADMINISTRATIVE BULLETIN

Number: 421.1

Date: 11-19-96

Section: Personnel

SUBJECT: County Volunteer Programs

I. GENERAL.

This bulletin provides the rules and procedures to be followed by County

departments governing volunteer programs, including the policies and procedures for

reimbursement of expenses; medical and permanent disability benefits; and legal defense

and indemnification against liability claims initiated by third parties. These regulations and

procedures are promulgated in accordance with the policy adopted by the Board of

Supervisors.

II. RULES AND PROCEDURES.

County departments shall submit to the Office of the

County Administrator a description of each volunteer program. Such programs become

County programs subject to the provisions of this Administrative Bulletin upon written

approval of the County Administrator, or designee.

A. County departments sponsoring volunteer programs shall have a staff member

assigned as a volunteer coordinator whose name and telephone number shall be

provided to the County Administrator. The Volunteer Program Coordinator shall be

responsible for the initial orientation and training of new volunteers. Confidentiality

requirements, and program elements shall be explained to volunteers.

B. Volunteers are required to fill out, read and sign an application form and supporting

documents. The volunteer coordinator, or designee, will sign the application form to

acknowledge its receipt and will provide a copy to the applicant

C. Records shall be kept of the acceptance of volunteers. If reimbursement of actual and

necessary expenses in performing volunteer services is authorized, the volunteer must

sign the Oath of Allegiance form. If the volunteer is a minor, the parental consent

form must be completed and signed by the parent or legal guardian.

D. Application, parental consent, auto insurance declaration and oath of allegiance forms

to be used by departments are attached.

E. Disabilities of a volunteer may be discussed with Risk Management and/or the

Affirmative Action Officer.

F. If a volunteer is to use a personal vehicle in the course of authorized volunteer

services, the volunteer will be required to fill out the “Volunteer Auto Insurance

Declaration” form. Volunteers must check with their insurance agent or broker to

make certain that liability insurance is extended under their policy while their vehicle

is being used for volunteer activities. Auto insurance is required for all volunteers

pg. 21

who will use their personal automobile while performing authorized volunteer

services with at least the following limits:

$15,000 for injury to or death to one person

$30,000 for injury to or death to two or more persons in one accident

$ 5,000 for property damage

The volunteer must furnish a California motor vehicle operators license if he/she is to

use a vehicle and the license number together with insurance policy number duly

noted on the Auto Insurance Declaration (form attached). A Certification of

Insurance or other evidence of insurance may be requested and placed on file.

III. INJURY TO VOLUNTEER.

Authorized volunteers are not entitled to workers’

compensation benefits. In lieu thereof and in return for the volunteer waiver of any claim

against the County for illness, injury or other harm arising from acts or occurrences while

providing volunteer services, the County shall provide, in the case of volunteer illness,

injury or death resulting from acts or occurrences while providing authorized volunteer

services, through self-insurance, for reimbursement of County authorized necessary

medical expenses, and for minimum permanent disability compensation equal to that

afforded under the workers’ compensation laws of California, provided, however, that no

temporary disability compensation shall be paid; that medical expenses shall be limited to

reimbursement for expenditures otherwise qualified for reimbursement which are not

covered by the volunteer’s health plan, other available insurance coverage, or other third

party (i.e., Federal, State or other payment); and that the County may elect to have the

County’s Health Services Department provide the volunteer’s necessary medical care.

IV. PUBLIC LIABILITY.

The County through its self-insurance program shall defend and

indemnify volunteers upon request against liability claims initiated by third parties arising

out of the volunteer’s acts or omissions occurring within the scope of authorized volunteer

services, unless the volunteer acted or failed to act because of actual malice, fraud,

corruption or gross negligence. Volunteers using personal automobiles in performing

authorized services must maintain liability insurance at limits which as a minimum comply

with the California Financial Responsibility Law and must have a driver’s license. The

protection afforded by the County shall be in excess only of any other public liability or

automobile liability insurance maintained by or which provides coverage for the volunteer,

and shall not cover any damages to the volunteer’s vehicle including any deductible

amount. Volunteers may be permitted to operate County vehicles in the performance of

authorized volunteer services.

V. PROCUDURE IN CASE OF ACCIDENT OR INJURY.

When a volunteer is injured

while performing authorized volunteer services, the department shall immediately notify

the Risk Management Department and arrange for medical care as necessary. The

volunteer’s supervisor shall immediately thereafter complete the Supervisor’s Report of

Occupational Injuries or Illness (Form AK-30). The Supervisor shall then forward the

form to the volunteer coordinator who within 24 hours shall submit the report through

department channels to Risk Management Division. The form shall indicate that the

injured party is a volunteer and identify any referral to a medical provider. The Risk

Management Division may arrange for the County’s Health Services Department to

provide the volunteer’s medical care.

pg. 22

All medical bills received by the volunteer for County authorized medical care not

otherwise covered by health insurance, other insurance, or third party payment shall be

forwarded to the Office of the County Administrator, Risk Management Division. Such

bills must be itemized and indicate the date of injury. County payments will be made

jointly to the volunteer and to the medical provider.

Any claims for permanent disability compensation shall be referred to the Risk

management Division for review and adjustment. Prior to final settlement and payment for

any such claim, the volunteer shall execute an appropriate form releasing the county from

any further liability and agreeing that such compensation shall be the volunteer’s sole and

exclusive remedy with respect to the injury sustained.

When there is an accident resulting in third party personal injury or property damage, the

appropriate accident report form shall be completed by the Supervisor and forwarded to the

volunteer coordinator and to the Risk Manager Division. The subsequent procedure to be

followed shall be identical to that applicable as in accidents involving County employees.

IV. REIMBURSEMENT OF EXPENSES.

Volunteers are eligible to receive reimbursement

from the County for certain actual and necessary expenses incurred in the performance of

authorized volunteer services. In order to claim expenses, the volunteer must have signed

the Oath of Allegiance before any County officer authorized to administer oaths and meet

previously described insurance requirements.

Volunteers are subject to the County reimbursement policies established for County

employees. The County will not reimburse volunteers for child care expenses; mileage

from the volunteer’s residence to the County designated facility or service location, unless

authorized and funded by a federally-funded or state-funded program approved by the

Board of Supervisors; or damage to the volunteer’s personal vehicle, including any

deductible provisions which are paid by the volunteer. The volunteer must provide

information to the volunteer coordinator with respect to the automobile liability insurance

coverage maintained prior to the use of the personal vehicle for volunteer services and

reimbursement of mileage claims.

NOTE: Forms can be reproduced locally.

Orig. dept.: County Administrator

/s/

____________________________

Phil Batchelor,

County Administrator

pg. 23

CONTRA COSTA COUNTY

VOLUNTEER APPLICATION AND REGISTRATION FORM

________________________________________________________________/_______/_____

Name Age Social Security No.

______________________________________________________________________________

Home Address Home Phone

______________________________________________________________________________

Business Address Business Phone

______________________________________________________________________________

Driver’s License No., If Any

Do you have a health problem we should be aware of in an emergency?

Yes____ No____ (Describe: such as a history of back trouble, heart, epilepsy, diabetes,

fainting, etc.)___________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

Is there a medication you must take? Yes____ No____

Is there a medication to which you are allergic? Yes____ No____

If yes, medication is:_____________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

Medical or Hospital Insurance Plan:_________________________________________________

Automobile Insurance Carrier:_____________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

Person to Call in Emergency Address Phone No.

I have been informed against and accept responsibility for any breach on my part respecting

confidential information. I have read the Policy adopted by the Contra Costa County Board of

Supervisors on volunteer programs. In return for the benefits provided by Contra Costa County

in case of my illness, injury, death, or third party liability while providing, or resulting from acts

or occurrences within the scope of my authorized volunteer services, and for my right to

authorized expense reimbursement, I waive any claim on my behalf and on behalf of my heirs,

representatives, and assigns against the County of Contra Costa any other agency governed by

the Board of Supervisors, and any agent, officer or employee thereof for illness, injury, debts or

without limitation, other harm arising from my volunteer services, whether or not authorized.

______________________________________________________________________________

Signature Date

Received:______________________________________________________________________

Signature Date

pg. 24

CONTRA COSTA COUNTY

PARENTAL CONSENT FORM

VOLUNTEER PROGRAM

Name of Minor: _______________________________________________________________

Address: _______________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________

Birth Date: _______________________________________________________________

Volunteer Activity: ____________________________________________________________

The above person, a minor, desires to perform volunteer services for the County in accordance

with the attached application form.

As parent/guardian of this minor, permission is hereby granted for him/her to participate in the

volunteer program. My child does not have any physical or medical problems which would

prohibit or limit participation in the volunteer program, except:

______________________________________________________________________________

In case of illness or emergency, please call: __________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

Telephone Number:_____________________________________________________________

I have reviewed the volunteer application and registration form and the policy adopted by the

Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors on volunteer programs, and give my consent for ____

_____________________ to participate in the volunteer program subject to the terms and

conditions expressed therein.

Signed by Parent/Guardian: _______________________________________________________

Date: __________________

pg. 25

CONTRA COSTA COUNTY

VOLUNTEER SERVICES

AUTO INSURANCE DECLARATION

Date: ___________________________

This is to certify that I, the undersigned, am in possession of a valid California Driver’s License:

No.:_____________________________ Expiration Date:______________________

My car is a:

Make: ________________________ Model: __________________________

Year: ________________________ License No.: _______________________

My car is insured with:

Company: ____________________________________________________________________

Policy No.: ___________________________________________________________________

Expiration Date: _______________________________________________________________

I further certify that I have minimum liability insurance coverage as follows:

$15,000 for injury to, or death of, one person;

$30,000 for injury to, or death of, two or more persons in one accident;

$ 5,000 for property damage.

If I no longer meet the minimum liability insurance coverage requirements, I will immediately

notify the Volunteer Program Coordinator.

____ I certify that I will not be operating a vehicle in my capacity as a volunteer.

________________________________

Signature

________________________________

Address

________________________________

pg. 26

CONTRA COSTA COUNTY

Martinez, California

VOLUNTEER PROGRAM POLICY

The use of volunteers in performing specific services is a valuable resource and provides an

avenue for citizen participation in various County programs which is recognized as being of

public benefit. In recognition of the benefits which may be derived from volunteer services, it is

hereby declared that it shall be County policy to encourage and promote volunteer programs

determined to be in the public interest.

It is County policy that volunteers will not replace County employees but will provide services to

supplement or enrich regular County programs and services.

This policy statement is designed to provide the framework for County volunteer programs

activities. The following guidelines are adopted for volunteer programs.

A. Volunteer Programs

A description of each volunteer program shall be submitted by the department head to the

County Administrator for review and approval.

Factors to be considered in evaluating programs are the need for and public benefit to be

derived from the volunteer program, associated County cost and staff effort required for

such a program, the potential for injury to volunteers, and the possibility for injury to others

including injuries giving rise to possible liability claims.

The County Administrator may adopt regulations governing the administration of this

volunteer program.

B. Volunteers

A volunteer is defined as a person who renders services gratuitously and has been accepted

in the volunteer program. The volunteer is not an employee of the County.

In recognition of the benefit to the County derived from volunteer services, and in return

for their waiver on their own behalf and on behalf of their heirs, representatives, and

assigns of any claim against the County of Contra Costa, other agency governed by the

Board of Supervisors, and any agent, officers, or employee thereof, for illness, injury,

debts, or without limitation any other harm arising from such volunteer services, authorized

volunteers serving in approved programs shall be provided the benefits indicated below:

pg. 27

1. Injury to Volunteer.

Contra Costa County volunteers are not entitled to workers’

compensation benefits. In lieu thereof and in return for the volunteer’s waiver of any

claim against the County for illness, injury or other harm arising from acts or

occurrences while providing volunteer services, the County shall provide, in the case

of volunteer illness, injury or death resulting from acts or occurrences while

providing authorized volunteer services, through self-insurance, for reimbursement of

County authorized necessary medical expenses, and for minimum permanent

disability compensation equal to that afforded under the workers’ compensation laws

of California, provided, however, that no temporary disability compensation shall be

paid; that medical expenses shall be limited to reimbursement for expenditures

otherwise qualified for reimbursement which are not covered by the volunteer’s

health plan, other available insurance coverage, or other third party (i.e., Federal,

State or other payment); and that the County may elect to have the County’s Health

Service Department provide the volunteer’s necessary medical care.

2. Public Liability.

The County through its self-insurance program shall defend and

indemnify volunteers upon request against liability claims initiated by third parties

arising out of the volunteer’s acts or omissions occurring within the scope of

authorized volunteer service, unless the volunteer acted or failed to act because of

actual malice, fraud, corruption or gross negligence. Volunteers may be permitted to

operate County vehicles in the performance of authorized volunteer services.

Volunteers using County or personal automobiles in performing authorized services

must maintain liability insurance at limits which as a minimum comply with the

California Financial Responsibility Law and must have a driver’s license. The

protection afforded by the County shall be in excess only of any other public liability

or automobile insurance maintained by or which provides coverage for the volunteer,

and shall not cover any damages to the volunteer’s vehicle, including any deductible

amount.

3. Expense Reimbursement.

Volunteers may be reimbursed for actual and necessary

expenses in performance of authorized volunteer services at the same rates and in

accordance with regulations and procedures established for County employees. No

reimbursement will be made for any child care expenses, mileage from the personal

residence of the volunteer to the County facility or service location or for damage to

personal vehicles or other property of volunteers used when performing authorized

volunteer services.

pg. 28

CONTRA COSTA COUNTY

Office of the County Administrator

ADMINISTRATIVE BULLETIN

Number:

140

Date:

1/1/2000

Section:

General

SUBJECT: Internet Usage

1. PURPOSE

This policy establishes regulations governing Contra Costa County (County)

departments, contractors, and employees in their use of the Internet and

other County computer resources.

2. BACKGROUND

The County requires responsible use of the Internet. A County employee or

contractor who is an Internet user has an accompanying responsibility of

prudent use. The Internet access provided by the County is for County

business use only. Access can and will be removed from users that violate

Departmental, County, Federal, and/or State regulations on appropriate use.

3. GUIDELINES

The County policy is designed:

To permit County Departments with access to the Internet to control

staff use, to support this technology, and to carry out their respective

missions;

To provide access to the Internet to County staff that can demonstrate

a need based on existing or planned business related projects.

To provide electronic mail capabilities for County business.

4. TRAINING

The County Departments shall provide training and support to employees or

contractors using the Internet. Training shall be designed, in part, to provide

users with the knowledge of this policy.

5. PROHIBITED USES

It is prohibited for any County employee or contractor to use, submit,

publish, display, or transmit with County equipment or facilities on the

network or on any computer system, any information which:

a) Violates or unlawfully infringes on the rights of any other person;

(including but not limited to, copyrights and software licenses.);

b) Contains defamatory, obscene, or illegal material;

c) Uses illegally acquired computer resources (to include but not limited

to software and databases);

d) Violates state, federal, county or departmental law or regulations;

e) Restricts or inhibits other users from using the system;

f) Is for personal gain or personal business of the employee;

g) Is for the purpose of unlawful harassment or discrimination

h) Is for any purpose other than County business.

It is also prohibited for any County employee or contractor to use County

equipment, the network, or any computer to:

a) Transmit material, information, or software in violation of any local,

state or federal law or regulation;

b) Play or participate in interactive games;

c) Make any unauthorized purchase.

6. CONSEQUENCES FOR VIOLATING INTERNET POLICY

Where a Department or Department employee or contractor violates this

policy and/or any other regulations developed by the County or County

Department, in addition to established disciplinary procedures for

employees who are in violation of such regulations, the County Chief

Information Officer (CIO) shall have the authority to deny or remove said

Department and/or specific user from access to the Internet.

7. COPYRIGHTED MATERIAL

other exclusive rights, belongs to the copyright owner, not to the person

who acquires a copy of the copyrighted work. Violation of copyright laws

can result in costly fines and other penalties. Copyrighted material that

contributes to successfully completing a County business project can be

used, but its use must be within the author's agreement as posted by the

author or current copyright law. Violation of copyrights is prohibited.

8. PUBLIC DOMAIN MATERIAL

When using County provided access, employees and contractors who

download public domain information for County business-related use are

responsible for determination that the information is in the public domain.

Users may not download public domain software for use on County

computers unless specifically authorized to do so by the Department

Information Technology (IT) unit. Downloaded information including

attachments to electronic mail must comply with the Department IT

downloading procedures.

9. INTERNET USAGE AGREEMENT

County employees and contractors having access to the Internet with County

equipment or facilities must acknowledge that all such network activity is

the property of the County, that the Internet use will be subject to

monitoring by the County with or without notice, and that users have no

expectation of privacy in any activity they engage in on the Internet. County

staff requesting Internet access to be paid for or provided by the County, as a

condition to such access, shall sign the County Internet Usage Agreement.

10. INTERNET ACCESS

The County will provide a method for Internet access at a minimum cost to

all departments qualified and approved by the County CIO and staff that

have a need to access and exchange information on a day to day basis on

County business, with companies, vendors, peers, other County

departments, or other entities utilizing the Internet. County Department

Heads (or their delegated representatives) will be responsible for approving

all Internet access by their employees and contractors. Supervisors or

managers will be responsible for approving completed access service

requests documenting the business need for Internet access.

Each individual Information Technology unit within a department will be

responsible for providing the physical access to the County Wide Area

Network (WAN). To ensure that minimum adequate protection is in place

for all County departments, Internet connections will be limited to a single

interface within the Department of Information Technology (DoIT).

11. INTERNET SECURITY

The County Information System Security Administrator (CISSA) will be

responsible for developing, maintaining, and monitoring Internet access

security policies in cooperation with each Information Technology unit

within the County.

A standard approach for monitoring Internet accesses will be implemented.

Monitoring will be required to prevent or substantiate any unauthorized use

of the Internet as defined in this policy.

12. ACCOUNTABILITY AND FISCAL RESPONSIBILITIES

Each County department will be responsible for ensuring compliance with

the Internet Policy.

Information about the County posted on the Internet via County "servers" for

public access must identify the department responsible for the information

displayed. Descriptions, logos, images, etc. representing County services

must be accompanied, to the extent possible, by an identification of the

department responsible. The existing County WEB page, for example, will

identify the unit responsible (e.g., Department of Information Technology).

Information made publicly available over the Internet by County personnel

must be supported and maintained by the department responsible.

Each County Department having Internet access must ensure that software

and systems are in place that can monitor and record Internet usage. These

activity reporting systems must be capable of recording (for each and every

user) each World Wide Web site visit, each file, newsgroup or e-mail

message, and each file transfer in to and out of County internal networks,

and the County reserves the right to make and access such records at any

time. Internet activity may be reviewed and analyzed for usage patterns.

13. COMPUTER LAW AND COMPUTER CRIME

There are at least two federal laws, the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act of

1986 and the Electronic Communications Privacy Act of 1986, which have

been enacted to control abuses of computers and electronic

communication/data transmission. In California, Section 502 of the Penal

Code prohibits tampering, interference, damage, and unauthorized access to

lawfully created computer data and computer systems. This law includes

criminal penalties for introducing contaminants into computer systems and

networks, allows the court to seize the hardware and software used in the

commission of a computer crime, and allows the courts to consider

prohibiting persons convicted of computer crimes from having access to

computers. Users must be made aware of these statutes.

The County's Internet facilities and computer resources must not be used

knowingly to violate the laws or regulations of the United States or any other

nation, or the laws or regulations of any state, city, province or other local

jurisdiction.

Orig. Dept.: Department of Information Technology

s/s_________________________________

PHIL BATCHELOR

County Administrator

[Attachment]

County Costa County

Internet and Electronic Mail Use Agreement Form

The County reserves the right to monitor and log all network activity including

e-mail, with or without notice, and as a user, I understand that I have no privacy

in the use of these resources. Internet activity may be reviewed and may be

analyzed for usage patterns, and reports may be publicized.

The County may have software and systems in place that can monitor and record all

Internet usage. I am aware that security systems are capable of recording (for each

and every user) each World Wide Web site visit, each chat, news group or electronic

mail message, and each file transfer into and out of our internal networks, and the

County reserves the right to do so at any time.

I agree that all network activity conducted while performing County business

and/or being conducted with County resources is the property of Contra Costa County.

In addition to the terms specified herein, I have been given a copy of the County

Internet UsagePolicy and Electronic Mail Policy, have read and understand their

requirements and information, and agree to abide by and conduct my use of the Internet

in conformity with their requirements.

Signed: _______________________________

Date: _______________________________

Supervisor/Manager: _______________________________

Date: _______________________________

Copy to be filed with the specific County Department.

pg. 29