Orientation on Volunteer Engagement Policy and Guidelines for the Second Wave

In the midst of pain and suffering, Caritas Samaritans become the hope for many through their small contribution. Caritas Samaritans started stepping out during COVID 2^nd deadly wave helping people to reach out to hospitals, proving information and assisting in online registration, supporting for the burial/cremations, and distribution of food and medical kits to communities in need.

A large number of volunteers are being engaged as part of COVID second wave response Caritas India organize a virtual orientation for around 20 volunteers on 2^nd June on volunteer engagement policies and guidelines for the second wave. Ms. Jenny from Caritas India commenced the orientation with acknowledgment and appreciation to volunteers for their generous deeds during this trying time.

She explained to them how to continue serving others but at the same time being cautious about ones’ health and take proper safety measures. She stressed on usage of safety measures like masks, PPE kits, sanitizers while going out for awareness, distribution, burial, and visits to hospitals. She also threw light on the code of conduct of volunteers which comprised of ethics, behavior, and attitude of volunteers while being with people.

Volunteers were also requested to register on the Volunteer portal which will help Caritas India to understand the volunteer better by understanding their skills and expertise and record their contributions.

During the session, some of the volunteers also shared their experiences about services they are able to extend people who are helpless. Mr. Ashish, one of the volunteers from Raigarh said that “I feel pained and sorry for patients and families while taking them to hospital, but this gives me an opportunity to be a solace for them through talking and consoling them.”

At the end of the session, volunteers were also oriented on reporting and documents by Ms. Minu who explained to them some of the important documentation formats to be compiled by selected volunteers and coordinators