In consideration of being permitted to participate as a volunteer with Valley Hope Foundation ("VHF" or "the Organization"), I acknowledge that volunteer activities may involve physical labor, including but not limited to debris removal, construction, renovation, landscaping, disaster response and recovery, and related activities. I understand that such activities may carry inherent risks of personal injury, property damage, or other harm.
I agree to comply with all safety guidelines, rules, and instructions provided by VHF staff, site supervisors, and partner organizations. I agree to use proper personal protective equipment (PPE) as directed and to cease any activity I believe to be unsafe and immediately report any hazardous conditions to VHF staff.
I voluntarily assume all risks — known and unknown — associated with my participation as a VHF volunteer, including but not limited to risks arising from the nature of the work, the condition of work sites, weather, equipment use, and interaction with other volunteers, staff, clients, and the general public.
I, on behalf of myself, my heirs, personal representatives, and assigns, hereby release, waive, discharge, and covenant not to sue Valley Hope Foundation, its officers, directors, board members, employees, volunteers, agents, and representatives (collectively, "Released Parties") from any and all claims, demands, damages, causes of action, or liability of any kind arising out of or in connection with my volunteer service, whether caused by the negligence of the Released Parties or otherwise.
I certify that I am in adequate physical condition to perform the volunteer activities for which I am signing up. I agree to inform VHF staff of any medical conditions, disabilities, or limitations that may affect my ability to participate safely.
I understand that VHF may photograph, film, or otherwise record my participation in volunteer activities for promotional, educational, and fundraising purposes. I grant VHF permission to use my likeness, name, and voice in such materials without compensation, and I waive any right to inspect or approve such materials prior to use.
If I am the parent or legal guardian of a minor who will participate in volunteer activities, I consent to their participation on their behalf and agree to the terms of this waiver as they apply to the minor. I acknowledge that I am responsible for supervising the minor throughout all volunteer activities.
I agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless the Released Parties from any and all claims, actions, damages, liability, and expenses — including reasonable attorney's fees — arising out of or in connection with any act or omission by me during my volunteer service.
This waiver shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of North Carolina. Any disputes arising under this waiver shall be resolved in the courts of Buncombe County, North Carolina.
If any provision of this waiver is found to be invalid or unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall remain in full force and effect.
This waiver constitutes the entire agreement between the volunteer and VHF with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersedes all prior or contemporaneous discussions, representations, or agreements.
Note: By checking the waiver agreement box on the volunteer registration or shift signup form, you confirm that you have read, understood, and agree to all terms of this Volunteer Liability Waiver & Release. This electronic acknowledgment constitutes your signature.