MISSION STATEMENT
The Newton Senior Center is a place for older adults to gather in an atmosphere that promotes and utilizes life experiences and skills.
The Center's goal is to provide an environment that validates the changing needs and interests of the individuals and enhance growth, dignity and connection with each other and the greater community.
Through creative programming, The Newton Senior Center provides participants opportunities and resources in the areas of physical and mental health, nutrition, recreation and education.
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WHO IS A NEWTON SENIOR CENTER VOLUNTEER?
A Newton Senior Center Volunteer is a man or a woman who enjoys being a part of the center in a helpful and productive way. He or she may use the skills of a lifetime or learn new ones to then share with friends and participants. It is the joy and commitment of these volunteers that make the Newton Senior Center the dynamic and vital place that it is.
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PHILOSOPHY OF VOLUNTEERISM
The staff of the Newton Senior Center is indebted to it’s corps of volunteers for all that they teach us through their work and support of our goals and missions.
It is our philosophy that volunteers are our greatest resource. We try to place them in positions that will be pleasing and satisfying to them and will contribute to the overall betterment of the center and it’s offerings. Our volunteers are encouraged to speak their minds, in appropriate forums, so that we are always improving our systems and providing an ever better workplace. Our volunteers are never required to do any task that they do not care to, for any reason.
Our goal is to have a smooth-running corps of “para-professionals” who are receiving, as much as they are giving in their contributions to the life of the Newton Senior Center.
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A Newton Senior Center Volunteer is expected.....
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to be supportive of The Senior Center and its mission.
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to participate in the orientation and training required for the volunteer’s position.
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to perform assignments to the best of the volunteer’s abilities.
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to participate in the planning and reviews relevant to the volunteers position (meetings).
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to be dependable, cooperative, and accountable.
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to contribute constructively to the resolution of problems and conflicts.
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to value and express appreciation for the efforts and achievements of others.
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to accord all others respect, equal opportunity, and fair treatment
A Newton Senior Center Volunteer may expect.....
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equal opportunity and consideration throughout recruitment, appointment, training and service.
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information concerning volunteer opportunities and appointments based on the volunteer’s interests and capabilities.
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a written position description.
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an orientation to the Senior Center and the program to which the volunteer is assigned, and the training needed to carry out the responsibilities of the position.
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encouragement, guidance, and the resources necessary for successful performance.
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inclusion in the planning and decision making relevant to the volunteer’s activities.
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respect, recognition, and appreciation for the volunteer’s efforts and contributions.
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CONFIDENTIALITY
Our volunteers have always been adept at dealing sensitively with participants. It is our aim to provide each participant with a sense of security derived from a policy of confidentiality and mutual respect. This is especially highlighted in our system of "resource and referral" when individuals may need to reveal them selves to get needed information. We maintain a master list and it is available for staff and volunteer purposes. Please maintain confidentiality. Do not hand out names and addresses. (If a situation arises take the name and number of the person calling and you make the contact for them. If you get permission you may exchange phone numbers.)
CONFLICT OF INTEREST POLICY
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Volunteers are considered unpaid employees and as such are accountable to State Ethics Commission Rulings.
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Volunteers may not solicit paid clients for their services while at the Senior Center.
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Volunteers may not hand out business cards while at the Center.
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Volunteers may not advertise their services at the Senior Center or in Senior Center publications.
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Volunteers may not offer information about their for profit services at the Senior Center.
- Volunteers may not use their position to gain benefit others may not receive
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Volunteer Meetings
Monthly Meetings
Volunteers are notified of meetings pertinent to their area of service.
General Volunteer Meetings
Monthly meetings are held for volunteers working in the lunch program, Store, reception, special events and games. This is a time for discussion about Senior Center business and an opportunity to look at what is being planned for the future. All volunteers are welcome to attend these meetings.
Computer Teacher Meetings
These meetings are held periodically through the Fall, Winter and Spring. Discussion ranges from issues of hardware and software and curriculum to teaching methods. This is an open forum designed to allow teachers access to each other.
Receptionist Meetings
These meetings are held periodically to update the receptionists on new information they will need while at the front desk. This is also a time to raise questions and concerns and make suggestions. Scheduling concerns are addressed at this time.
Tax Aide Meetings
These are held twice annually. The Fall meeting is to organize for the upcoming tax season and the Spring meeting is to review how the season went.
Individual Teacher or Group Leader Meetings
These are arranged individually throughout the year to offer support and supervision pertaining to specific area of interest.
Volunteers are encouraged to contact the Program Coordinator at any time to discuss their volunteer work in a private meeting. All communications remain confidential unless otherwise requested.
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