Volunteers
The University of Georgia is self-insured through Risk Management Services against state tort claims. This coverage is extended to UGA volunteers who are part of a structured program organized, controlled and directed by a University of Georgia Department for the purpose of carrying out the functions of the University. The liability coverage is for injuries and/or property damage volunteers may cause others while acting in the course of their official volunteer duties. Liability coverage does not apply when volunteers deviate from the course of their volunteer duties.
Volunteer General Requirements
Volunteers are individuals who perform services for the University, without expectation of compensation, benefits, academic credit, or future employment. Generally, volunteers are not current employees or vendors/consultants.
The University is self-insured through the Department of Administrative Services – Risk Management Services against state tort claims. This coverage is extended to University Volunteers who are a part of the University Structured Volunteer Program. The liability coverage is for injuries and/or property damage Volunteers may cause others while acting in the course and scope of their official volunteer duties. Liability coverage does not apply when Volunteers deviate from the course of their volunteer duties.
All Volunteers must establish proof of identity and citizenship or permanent residency. If the individual is not a citizen or permanent resident of the United States, he/she must provide documentation of his/her visa status. An individual holding a temporary visa may not serve as a volunteer in a position where others in a similar position receive compensation or perform the same services. An individual with a pending H-1B visa application to work at the University cannot serve as a volunteer. Volunteer status may not be used to avoid or defer compliance with the employment eligibility requirements of federal immigration laws.
An individual who is under the age of 18 must have parental consent to serve as a Volunteer.
Volunteers may not be used in positions that are normally paid or to replace classified employees who have been a part of a Reduction in Force.
All volunteer work must be directed and supervised by a University employee designated by the unit for which the individual will be working (“Sponsoring Department”). Volunteers must agree to abide by all applicable University policies and sign the Volunteer Agreement provided by Insurance and Claims Management prior to performing volunteer service. Each Volunteer Agreement must be approved by the head of the Sponsoring Department. The Sponsoring Department is responsible for promptly submitting the signed Volunteer Agreement to UGA Insurance and Claims Management.
Volunteers who work with minors must satisfactorily complete a background check prior to performing any duties for the University. Other volunteers may also be required to complete a background check. Contact UGA Human Resources for more information about background check requirements. Sponsoring Departments, in consultation with the Office of Legal Affairs, may require background checks when warranted by the nature of the duties to be performed.
University Volunteers do not have an employment relationship with the University on any grounds or for any reason. Volunteers are not eligible for University benefits, including but not limited to workers’ compensation, and the University does not provide Volunteers with accident or medical insurance.
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