We require that all volunteers fill out this Waiver and Photo Consent Form prior to volunteering with us. Project Watershed appreciates each and every volunteer. We do our utmost to make our activities engaging, safe and enjoyable. Volunteer contributions are invaluable to our organization and the environmental stewardship of the Comox Valley. As a non profit organization, we have legal and insurance needs that must be clearly written and fully understood by those who choose to share their skills and passions with us. These needs are intended for the benefit of both parties - the Society and volunteers - and do not take away from the importance of the relationships or the work to be done. Thank you for filling out this waiver and sharing your time with us.
By signing below (which is completed by clicking the yes checkbox), I, the volunteer, acknowledge that entry into this agreement (“Agreement”) is in consideration of my participation and confirm my understanding and agreement to the following:
Policies and Safety Rules
I will comply with Project Watershed’s policies, safety rules, conduct expectations, and other directions as detailed in their Volunteer Guide (https://projectwatershed.ca/volunteer/volunteer-guide). I understand that Project Watershed does not tolerate bullying, harassment, threatening behavior, or violence of any kind. I understand that noncompliance may result in termination of my participation.
Not an Employee
I understand that (a) I am not an employee of Project Watershed, (b) I will not be paid for my participation, and (c) I am not covered by or eligible for Project Watershed health care or worker’s compensation.
Risks Associated with Participating in an Activity
I understand that participating in Project Watershed activities has risks. These risks may arise in a variety of ways. They include, without limitation: my lifting heavy objects or otherwise exerting myself, handling glass and, materials, using hot or sharp objects or other tools, being exposed to dust, loud noises, and interacting with and being in the presence of other volunteers, visitors and other people. I understand that these risks include risks of injury, illness, death, and property damage or loss, and that they may arise from my own actions or from the actions of others at or near Project Watershed facilities or encountered when traveling for Project Watershed activities offsite. I also understand that even if Project Watershed, I, and other persons present at Project Watershed facilities follow all health and safety protocols, I may still be exposed to risks including COVID-19 or other infectious diseases.
Awareness and Assumption of Risk
I understand the information above, and confirm and acknowledge that these are risks associated with volunteering. With such information and awareness, and with the recognition that other factors may create additional such risks, I knowingly, freely, and voluntarily: (a) sign up to be a volunteer for Project Watershed; (b) engage in activities; and (c) assume and accept the risks of all injury, death, property damage or loss, financial obligation, loss of privacy, loss of reputation, and all other injuries and other consequences, whether known or unknown, whether foreseen or unforeseeable, and whether incurred at Project Watershed facilities or elsewhere, that may result, directly or indirectly, from my presence at Project Watershed facilities or participation with Project Watershed, regardless of the cause.
Waiver and Release of Claims
I waive and release Project Watershed and its directors, officers, agents, employees, volunteers, and affiliates (collectively, “Project Watershed Parties”) from any and all liability, claims, costs, and expenses of any kind and of whatever nature which I or my heirs, next of kin, or legal representatives may have or which may later accrue, caused by or arising directly or indirectly from my presence at Project Watershed facilities or participation in Project Watershed activities. This release and waiver includes, in each such case, all claims in respect of the risks noted above, known and unknown, foreseen and unforeseeable, regardless of the cause or whether such claims arise from tort, contract, or otherwise, and even if caused by negligence, whether passive or active.
Disclosure of Medical Conditions
I understand that I am solely responsible for knowing my own physical condition and making my own decision about participating in any activities. I have disclosed all medications and conditions relevant to my participation to my supervisor or other staff at Project Watershed, including chronic conditions such as asthma, allergies, seizures, or diabetes. I understand that Project Watershed needs such information because some medication side effects or medical conditions could affect my safety or that of others at Project Watershed. I consent to Project Watershed sharing this information with health professionals or first responders should I become ill or injured while at Project Watershed facilities.
Medical Care Consent and Waiver
I authorize Project Watershed to provide me with first aid and to arrange medical assistance, transportation, and emergency medical services for me if I get hurt while volunteering. I understand that Project Watershed is not obligated to provide this care. I also understand that I am solely responsible for any costs related to my medical treatment and transport, and that Project Watershed does not provide health, medical, disability, or other insurance coverage for me.
Confidentiality
I may have access to Project Watershed’s confidential information. At all times during and after my participation, I agree to hold any such confidential information in confidence and not disclose or use it except as Project Watershed expressly authorizes.
Assignment of Work Product
I grant full rights to Project Watershed in any reports, brochures, website content, photos, images, videos, or other materials or works I may create in the course of Project Watershed activities, and any intellectual property rights in or derivatives of such materials.
General Provisions
I understand that this Agreement will be binding for so long as I am a volunteer with Project Watershed. This Agreement will run in favor of, and may be enforced by, each of the Project Watershed Parties, and will bind my heirs, next of kin, and legal representatives. This Agreement will be binding to the fullest extent permitted by law. If any provision of this Agreement is found to be unenforceable, the other terms remain effective. This Agreement will be governed by British Columbia law and the Federal Laws of Canada therein.
