During your volunteer service, you may learn certain facts about individuals who are employed by or are being served by Housing Works that are of a highly personal and confidential nature. Examples of such information include but are not limited to: health status, medical conditions and treatment, finances, living arrangements, employment status, sexual orientation, relations with family members and other personal information. All such information must be treated with absolute confidentiality as required by Public Health Law 27F; NYS DOH Regulation Part 50-4 (Intra-agency Access to and Disclosure of Personal Health Related Information); Public Officers Law, Article 6A; and Housing Works policies and procedures. Any breach of your obligation to strictly adhere to this policy regarding confidential information may result in your immediate dismissal as a volunteer for Housing Works and may subject you to legal liability.
Housing Works is committed to providing and maintaining a safe and welcoming environment for all its employees and patrons - staff, volunteers, customers, and clients. In keeping with this responsibility, please observe the following guidelines: (1) Treat all staff, volunteers, customers and clients with courtesy, kindness and respect. All volunteers must conduct themselves in a manner that is befitting to a positive organization image. Abusive behaviors, including but not limited to verbal threats, sexual harassment, coercion and physical violence will not be tolerated; (2) Do not report to any Housing Works sites under the influence of alcohol or drugs; (3) Follow standards established by staff; (4) Volunteer benefits may not be used for personal financial gain.