Buffalo Field Campaign Volunteer Agreement

Welcome to the Buffalo Field Campaign (BFC). Whether you are here for a few days or a few months, your presence is valued and the work you do is important. The buffalo are the reason we are here and everything we do connects back to them. Please respect them by respecting everyone who is here to save them. BFC has learned and grown tremendously since its founding in 1997 and continues to grow and evolve. The following volunteer agreement reflects what we have learned over the years about maintaining a healthy, harmonious community and an effective campaign worthy of representing the buffalo. If you have comments about this agreement, please bring them up so we can address them. BFC Security New volunteers will be asked to show identification or have references. Anyone living in the campaign headquarters with a warrant will be asked to leave until the warrant is cleared. Our Commitment to Non-Violence BFC is a nonprofit organization that works to embody non-violent philosophy and practice. We do not condone any property damage or any act that could cause harm to others. We provide training in the theory and techniques of non-violence on a regular basis, so you can learn more about what "non-violence" entails. Code of Conduct BFC is a non-discriminatory organization. All volunteers are expected to treat others with respect and remember that your actions reflect on the campaign and will affect how volunteers are perceived and treated in the future. On patrol and at home volunteers are asked to use proper conduct when interacting with others. Inappropriate profanity and sexual harassment will result in a volunteer being asked to leave. Volunteers are expected to live communally. From housework to providing a safe environment for everyone, communal living encourages sharing, patience, and acceptance of diversity. New volunteers will be paired with an experienced volunteer for their first two patrols. Experienced volunteers assume responsibility for training new volunteers in all areas of campaign life. New volunteers can take on responsibilities as they feel comfortable and confident. Substance Policy Alcohol and non-prescription drugs are not permitted on the premises of the BFC: in the house, on the porch, on patrol, nor in campaign vehicles. This applies to both volunteers and any visitors passing through. Any violation will result in the volunteer being asked to leave. Those who choose to drink must do so away from the cabin and are asked to stay away until 8 am the following day. However, if a volunteer is still under the influence by 8 am they are required to stay off of BFC premises until sobriety is maintained. It is not acceptable to go on patrol in the morning if you have been drinking the night before. There will be times when traditional protocol requires a period of sobriety from volunteers if they desire to participate in ceremonies or events. Pets New volunteers are strongly discouraged from bringing pets with them to BFC. Pets impact wildlife and other residents of the property, jeopardizing our ability to continue to rent our current quarters. The dogs that already live here are set in their hierarchy and new animals upset the balance, causing fights and noise. Generally dogs are to remain outside all day until after dinner and the nightly meeting, except for dogs with special circumstances, e.g. an injured or sick animal. Owners must be responsible for their pet and must take care of any complaints about disturbances the pet causes. Puppies are highly discouraged.