church volunteer form template word

Volunteer Service Agreement and Liability Release

Instructions for Use

• Complete all bracketed information in the Parties section and select the appropriate ministry areas using the checkboxes provided.
• Ensure the volunteer reads clauses 1 through 6 thoroughly before signing to ensure mutual understanding of the service relationship.
• Maintain the signed original in a secure, confidential file and provide a copy to the volunteer for their personal records.

Parties & Definitions

This Volunteer Service Agreement ("Agreement") is entered into as of [Date] by and between [Church Name], a religious organization located at [Church Address] ("Church"), and [Volunteer Full Legal Name], residing at [Volunteer Address] ("Volunteer").

Operative Clauses

1. Nature of Relationship: The Volunteer acknowledges that their service is provided on a strictly voluntary basis. The Volunteer is not an employee, agent, or independent contractor of the Church and is not entitled to any wages, benefits, workers' compensation, or other compensation for their service.

2. Scope of Service: The Volunteer agrees to perform duties associated with the following ministry areas: [ ] Children’s Ministry [ ] Hospitality/Greeters [ ] Facilities/Maintenance [ ] Music/Worship [ ] Administrative Support [ ] Other: [__________]

3. Code of Conduct: The Volunteer agrees to abide by the Church’s established policies, safety protocols, and code of conduct. The Volunteer represents that they have disclosed any prior criminal history or circumstances that may disqualify them from service, particularly regarding work with minors or vulnerable populations.

4. Background Check Authorization: The Volunteer authorizes the Church to conduct a background check, including criminal history, as a condition of service in positions involving minors or financial responsibilities. The Church reserves the right to deny volunteer status based on the results of such screening.

5. Liability Release and Waiver: The Volunteer, for themselves and their heirs, hereby releases, waives, and discharges the Church, its officers, directors, and employees from any and all liability, claims, or demands arising out of any loss, damage, or injury (including death) sustained while participating in volunteer activities, except in cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct by the Church.

6. Confidentiality: The Volunteer agrees to maintain the strict confidentiality of all private, sensitive, or personal information regarding Church members, staff, or other volunteers that they may encounter during the course of their service.

Signature & Acknowledgment

By signing below, I acknowledge that I have read this document in its entirety, understand its terms, and voluntarily agree to be bound by them.

Signature: __________ Printed Name: [] Title/Role: [] Date: [__________]

Legal Disclaimer: This document is a general framework and does not constitute formal legal advice. Please consult with qualified legal counsel in your jurisdiction to ensure compliance with local labor laws, insurance requirements, and specific denominational policies.