Did You Know?
For our newer volunteers, here's a recap of some of the tools available to you during your volunteer shifts. Call or stop by the office if you'd like to take advantage of any of the following:
IVC reimburses gas at .28 cents per mile. This is particularly for volunteers driving off island. Contact the office to request a reimbursement form if you are interested
IVC has a Toyota minivan through Kitsap Transit and IVC volunteers can become a certified van driver to use our van for driving multiple care receivers. Becoming a Kitsap Van driver is free and simple. If you’re interested, fill out an online "drivers" application; take a quick test; and schedule a Kitsap Transit orientation.
IVC has two parking placards for individuals with disabilities that volunteers can borrow while driving qualified care receivers. Call or email ahead to reserve one, then stop by the office to check one out prior to your shift.
Ferry costs are covered when volunteers drive care receivers to Seattle. While IVC works behind the scenes on Seattle transportation solutions we still need volunteers to bridge the gap by crossing the sound. Please let us know if you can help.
A step stool is a magical tool. IVC has an extra step stool in the office if you are picking up a care receiver who has difficulty getting in and out of your car. If you run into this often it may be worth keeping one in your trunk.
IMPORTANT REMINDERS
................................................................
1.) Remember - Care Receivers Might Forget. After your initial call to let your care receiver know that you are filling their request, you may need to call the night before or the morning of your shift. The first call is so they know they will be taken care of and the second call is to remind them.
2.) Please remember to LOG VOLUNTEER HOURS AND MILEAGE after each shift when you are prompted by IVC via email. If you don't receive an email please contact Morgan at morgan@ivcbainbridge.org.
3.) Please read the complete set of notes in the care receiver's info email that is sent when you pick up a request. The notes may contain important details regarding medical, mobility, or other relevant updates.
4.) Please let us know if you notice any changes in a care receiver that you feel IVC needs to be aware of.
THANK YOU! Tracking volunteer shifts, hours, mileage, and updates on care receivers is crucial to IVC's ability to receive funding and retain insurance.
Over the past year we've taken great care to update our policies and procedures in order to provide clarity on what IVC can and cannot do for care receivers as we address growing needs in our community. The updated policies and procedures are on our website for your reference.
Volunteer Education
If you're new to IVC or need a refresher - take twenty minutes to watch our online volunteer training videos. There are three quick videos that cover IVC's policies on ESSENTIALS, TRANSPORTATION, and HOME COMPANIONSHIP. View Videos.