Last week I blogged about the recent court ruling regarding interns and earlier in the year I blogged about the value of volunteers. The use of interns and volunteers by nonprofit organizations comes with legal risks, and it’s worthwhile to remember the 4 basic rules when working with volunteers:

  • Rule 1: Do not pay volunteers in cash or in kind (expenses may be reimbursed, but only in accordance with a written expense reimbursement plan)
  • Rule 2: Have volunteers sign a volunteer agreement (which should contain a provision reflecting no payment as well as waivers of liability)
  • Rule 3: Obtain insurance and have appropriate volunteer accident and volunteer liability policies Rule 4: Screen, train and supervise volunteers so that you know who they are and what they are doing

Finally, consult with an attorney and insurance provider where appropriate.

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Donella Wilson

Donella Wilson, CPA, leads GHJ’s Nonprofit Practice and is also President and Chief Philanthropy Officer of GHJ Foundation, GHJ’s vehicle for purposeful and proactive giving to the community. A leader in both the nonprofit and accounting communities, Donella was named a finalist in the 2021 Los…Learn More