CSUF Volunteer Guidelines

The University is currently developing guidelines concerning the appointment of University volunteers. Until those guidelines are announced, those responsible for designating individuals as volunteers should follow these instructions. If you have any questions concerning who may be appointed as a volunteer or how to appoint a volunteer, please contact the Director of University Risk Management at extension 4937.

1. Division Heads or their official designees have the authority to designate and appoint individuals as University volunteers.
   
   
2. “University volunteers” are individuals who, without compensation of any kind or expectation of compensation beyond expense reimbursement, perform work or provide services at the direction of or on behalf of the University. Typical volunteer activities include serving on a governing board overseeing a University support group; teaching or assisting in other academic functions; assisting in fund raising, political advocacy or other administrative functions; working in the Health Center; or assisting with campus events or activities.
   
   
3. Individuals are not typically considered University volunteers if they have not been properly registered as a volunteer; serve as guest lecturer, “Professor for a Day” or other similar role; serve as an adjunct professor without teaching or research responsibilities, participate in an athletic event; participate in community service programs sponsored by the University; participate in an activity or serve on a committee sponsored by a University support group; or volunteer to avoid a civil or criminal fine or penalty.
   
   
4. Any individual volunteering for the University must complete and have approved a “Volunteer Identification form” prior to beginning their service. The original form should be sent to the Office of University Risk Management. The department supervising the volunteer should keep a copy and give a copy to the volunteer.
   
   
5. Individuals who are physically, mentally and professionally capable of performing the services involved may serve as University volunteers regardless of their age. Minors must have parental consent to serve as University volunteers.
   
   
6. Individuals may not serve as University volunteers if they:
   
   
   1. Have been charged with, pled to, or been convicted of crimes determined by the University to pose a threat to the campus community; or
   2. Make a false statement or omit a statement as to any material fact on the Volunteer Identification form.
      
      
7. University volunteers:
   
   
   1. Are eligible to receive Workers' Compensation and liability coverage benefits. University volunteers do not receive retirement or health benefits.
   2. May not enter into any agreements or commit resources on behalf of the University.
   3. May drive a vehicle on University business as long as they comply with all applicable requirements and driving is within their assigned duties.
   4. May be reimbursed for expenses in accordance with University procedures.
   5. Must possess any required license or certificate, and have completed any background check, fingerprinting or other process that may be required as determined by the University President.
      
      
8. Prior to beginning their service, University volunteers should review the University’s harassment policy, procedures for reporting injuries or illnesses, expense reimbursement procedures and any applicable safety guidelines.
   
   
9. Departments should retain the original, signed University Volunteer Identification Form for a period of three years after the conclusion of the volunteer service. Send a copy of the form to the Office of University Risk Management.

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