Gravenhurst Against Poverty (GAP) Information and Volunteer Agreement

What is GAP?

Gravenhurst Against Poverty (GAP) was founded in December 2017 from a shared concern for neighbours facing hardship. Established as a grassroots initiative and sustained entirely by dedicated volunteers, GAP’s mission is to relieve poverty by providing essential resources—such as food and affordable transportation—to support neighbours in need. GAP also operates a supervised youth centre weekly, offering a safe and supportive space for young people.

In 2022, GAP became a registered charity and is proudly funded by the generosity of donations and grants. Every contribution directly impacts the lives of our neighbours, helping to build a stronger, more compassionate Gravenhurst community.

Why Volunteer with GAP?

• Make a meaningful impact by helping support community members in need.

• Develop new skills while enhancing your own sense of well-being.

• Connect with others and build lasting relationships.

• Earn community service hours to support educational and career goals.

How Can I Help?

GAP’s programs rely on volunteer support across a variety of activities. Share any expertise you bring and inquire about learning opportunities to help ensure GAP’s ongoing success. Volunteers with diverse skills and interests contribute to GAP’s positive impact and keep operations running smoothly.

Volunteer Expectations

•. Show kindness and compassion toward our neighbours, which includes both community members and fellow volunteers.

• Maintain strict confidentiality regarding GAP’s neighbours, volunteers, donors, and processes. This includes handling sensitive information responsibly (e.g., using BCC for emails, shredding delivery sheets, protecting key/security codes).

• Communicate promptly with your Program Lead if you cannot attend or will be late for your shift. Flexible shifts are scheduled based on your availability.

• Protect the health of others by staying home if you are unwell.

• Meet any specific requirements for your role (e.g., insurance for delivery drivers, vulnerable sector police check for youth workers, food handling certification for cooks).

• Participate in training when possible, as it provides valuable insight into poverty and helps strengthen our impact. Stay informed about GAP and its programs by reading the GAP newsletter.

What You Can Expect from GAP

• Training, resources, and guidance to fulfill your role effectively.

• A designated supervisor (Program Lead) to support you in your volunteer role.

• A respectful environment open to volunteer feedback and suggestions.

• Appreciation for your contributions. Volunteers may occasionally be featured on social media; please inform the photographer if you prefer not to be photographed.

• Assurance of your privacy and protection of your personal information. Refer to the Privacy Policy for full details.

GAP Safe Space Statement

GAP is committed to creating a welcoming, inclusive environment that values diversity. GAP is a safe space for Black, Indigenous, and people of colour, as well as those who identify within the 2SLGBTQI+ community. All volunteers and neighbours are treated with respect, dignity, and compassion.

Safety Protocol for Volunteers

To ensure everyone’s safety, inappropriate behaviour (e.g., verbal threats, harassment, abusive language, or physical assault) will not be tolerated. Offenders may be asked to leave, and volunteers are encouraged to follow these safety steps if needed:

1. If anyone is in immediate physical danger, call 911.

2. If you feel safe, calmly approach the individual with another person to de-escalate the situation.

3. If the individual is unresponsive and refuses to leave, inform them that the police will be contacted. If there’s no immediate danger, call the OPP non- emergency line at 1-888-310-1122.

For full details about GAP’s programs and mission, please visit gravenhurstagainstpoverty.com

Phone: 705-641-2225 | Email: gravenhurstagainstpoverty@gmail.com

All new volunteers are asked to acknowledge receipt of this information and agree to uphold these standards in their role as a GAP volunteer.