Misty Eyes
Volunteer Handbook
Helping Us Help Them
“Never doubt a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change
the world; indeed it’s the only thing that ever has.” ~Margaret Mead
November 2014
Table of Contents
Welcome ........................................................................................................................ 1
Center Information ........................................................................................................ 1
Mission ........................................................................................................................... 1
Core Values ................................................................................................................... 1
Code of Conduct ........................................................................................................... 1
The Need ........................................................................................................................ 1
History ............................................................................................................................ 2
Learning Center ............................................................................................................. 2
Board of Directors ......................................................................................................... 3
Leadership Team ........................................................................................................... 3
Volunteer Services ........................................................................................................ 3
Management .......................................................................................................................... 3
Organization ........................................................................................................................... 3
Recruitment ............................................................................................................................ 4
Volunteer Designations .......................................................................................................... 4
Volunteer Policies ......................................................................................................... 4
Volunteer Sign-up ................................................................................................................... 4
Absences/Attendance............................................................................................................. 5
Confidentiality ......................................................................................................................... 5
Dismissal ................................................................................................................................ 5
Security .................................................................................................................................. 5
Parking ................................................................................................................................... 5
Sexual Harassment ................................................................................................................ 5
Smoking Policy ....................................................................................................................... 6
Assumption of Risk ................................................................................................................. 6
Gift of Right of Publicity .......................................................................................................... 6
Substance Abuse Policy ......................................................................................................... 6
Volunteer Uniform Policy ........................................................................................................ 7
Volunteer Procedures ................................................................................................... 7
Signing in and Out .................................................................................................................. 7
Weather-Related Closing or Cancellation ............................................................................... 7
Media Inquiries ....................................................................................................................... 7
Safety ............................................................................................................................. 8
Volunteer Responsibilities ...................................................................................................... 8
Hazardous Materials............................................................................................................... 8
Working Around Animals ........................................................................................................ 9
Accidents/Incidents................................................................................................................. 9
Tetanus .................................................................................................................................. 9
Volunteer Perks ............................................................................................................. 9
Volunteer Appreciation Events ............................................................................................... 9
Education and Training........................................................................................................... 9
Tax Deductions ...................................................................................................................... 9
Customer Service .......................................................................................................... 9
Social Media Policy ..................................................................................................... 10
Evaluation .................................................................................................................... 10
Reminders.................................................................................................................... 11
Adoption Center .......................................................................................................... 11
Welcome
Misty Eyes Animal Center (Misty Eyes) supports the involvement of volunteers in its activities
and depends on these dedicated individuals who contribute their time to the operation of the
Adoption Center and our programs.
Center Information
640 E. Main Street
Brownsburg, Indiana 46112
317-858-8022
Hours of Operation
Monday through Friday by Appointment
Saturday – 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Sunday – 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Mission
It is the mission of Misty Eyes to help end the needless euthanasia of domesticated pets in
Hendricks County. We will do this by working with local organizations, teaching responsible pet
ownership, spay/neuter education and networking for successful adoptions. These relationships,
an enthusiastic volunteer network and a dedicated foster system will help us achieve this goal.
Core Values
Kindness, Integrity, Professionalism, Team Work
Code of Conduct
Misty Eyes acknowledges the valuable contribution it receives through the interest, time, and
experience donated by volunteers. Because volunteers are intimately involved in our programs
and activities, standards of conduct are set forth for the protection of the volunteers and the
organization. Volunteer service must be undertaken for the betterment of the Misty Eyes and its
mission, not for personal gain other than the satisfaction of participating. Misty Eyes volunteers
may not receive compensation for performance of tasks. Volunteers are expected to be friendly,
courteous and helpful to Misty Eyes guests and staff. Volunteers are representatives of Misty
Eyes anytime they are in uniform or at events and are to represent Misty Eyes in a positive way.
The Need
Hendricks County has only the County run Animal Control facility to shelter homeless,
abandoned and stray animals. However, Animal Control has not been designed or funded for
the long term care, rehabilitation and re-homing of animals. The Hendricks County Humane
Society does not operate a shelter or a foster care program.
It is our goal to work with Hendricks County Animal Control to lower the county’s euthanasia
rate.
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History
Misty Eyes is the vision of Renee Harlor and Cherie Fox. The duo, both Hendricks County
residents, saw a need in their community. The county shelter was not designed or funded for
the long term care and rehabilitation of animals and the county humane society didn't have any
animals. Many healthy animals were being euthanized and they wanted to change this. Misty
Eyes believes that education is the key to ending animal overpopulation, abuse and neglect.
They also do not turn away animals with medical needs and who are seniors, instead they
welcome them.
Cherie started as a Veterinary Technician in 1989. In 2003 she learned and began dog training
in Positive Reinforcement methods. In 2005 she was asked by Best Friends Animal Society to
assist in the rescue of pets left behind in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina. The site used for
their staging area was St. Francis Animal Sanctuary in Mississippi. In 2006 she was offered a
position at St Francis and lived and worked on site for almost a year. She was a daily caregiver
and medical technician. It allowed her the experience to understand the dynamics and work
needed to run a successful animal shelter. She is certified in Canine Massage Therapy and
Animal Emergency Rescue.
Renee grew up in rural upstate New York and as a child always managed to bring stray dogs
and cats home. She moved to Indiana seven years ago and was surprised to learn that
Hendricks County didn't have a no-kill shelter. She has always had a passion for animals and
always roots for the underdog. Since graduating from college she has devoted much of her free
time to helping dogs in need. She has a degree in Business Management/Finance and over
fifteen years of management experience. She has held the positions of Director of Revenue and
Director of Operations for a multi-million dollar company.
Renee and Cherie combined forces and Misty Eyes was born. Cherie is the Director of Animal
Operations, overseeing all animal related activities. Renee is the Executive Director and
oversees all training, volunteers, public relations, fundraisers and events.
Learning Center
It is the mission of Misty Eyes Animal Center to educate our community on matters relating to
responsible pet ownership and respect for all living things.
We offer free programs and presentations at your school or other site. We also offer a variety of
low cost recreational classes.
Programs are designed for both small and large groups and for children, teens and adults.
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Board of Directors
Renee Harlor
Cherie Fox
Bea Tate
Co-Founder & Executive Director
Co-Founder & Director of Animal Operations
Director of Finance
Leadership Team
The Leadership Team consists of the following:
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Animal Adoption Lead
Community Outreach Lead
Executive Assistant to the Board
Foster Care Lead
Fundraiser Lead
Humane Education Lead
Junior Volunteer Lead
Special Projects
Volunteer Lead
Volunteer Services
Management
The management of volunteers involves scheduling and supervising. Programs in which
volunteers are assigned are overseen by the Volunteer Lead as well as placement and
scheduling. Volunteers are placed under the direct supervision of Counselors on Duty at the
Adoption Center and Events Lead and committee chairs at events.
Organization
Our Volunteer Program operates in conjunction with our Board of Directors. Our current
volunteer programs are:
General Volunteer: Available for volunteers of all ages who are committed to giving time to
Misty Eyes in a variety of capacities. This includes special events such as Spring Jamboree as
well as staffing booths at various local events. All volunteers must attend a one hour general
orientation session.
Junior Volunteer: Available for volunteers kindergarten to 17. All junior volunteers must
attend a junior orientation session.
Adoption Center: Available to volunteers age 12-15 with an adult and ages 16 and up with
signed waiver. All Adoption Center volunteers must attend a general orientation and then
Adoption Center training. This additional training is required for any activity with direct contact
with our adoptables such as animal handler at events that have adoptables in attendance.
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Foster Homes: Our foster families take animals into their home and provide him/her with food,
water, toys and lots of love. We provide all medical care, and a support team to help you with
any questions you may have during the foster period. Foster parents may also be required to
transport their foster animals to scheduled medical appointments or adoption events. In some
instances the foster parent may be asked to administer medications or special diets. Foster
parents should be committed to the animal(s) that they are fostering for the agreed foster
period.
Recruitment
Interested persons can learn about the Misty Eyes Volunteer Program from several sources
including visiting our web site at www.mistyeyes.org as well as at our signature events,
presentations and events where Misty Eyes has a presence. Of course, the best recruitment is
word of mouth from our dedicated volunteers.
The first step to becoming a Misty Eyes volunteer is to attend a one hour orientation. Here you
will learn the answers to frequently asked questions and learn the volunteer sign up process.
We will talk about our past, present and future as well as answer any questions you may have.
All volunteers are required to complete a Volunteer Application and sign a liability waiver before
volunteering for any Misty Eyes events.
For those wishing to volunteer at our Adoption Center or to be an animal handler at events,
additional training is required. Our training program will consist of a one hour training program
held at the Adoption Center. During this training there will not be animals at the Center. The
second half of your training program will be shadowing at the Center.
Volunteer Designations
Active Status: Volunteers desiring to maintain Active Status must do so by averaging 2 hours
per month (24 hours per year). Hours will be reviewed on an annual basis and those not
meeting the minimum requirements will be contacted to inquire as to their future plans for
volunteering. We understand that time, availability, interests, jobs, family concerns, etc. can
influence the commitment volunteers can make to Misty Eyes. Perks of active volunteers
include invites to appreciation events, pre-sale event tickets, drawings and more.
Special Events Volunteers: Volunteers who are unable to meet the Active Status time
requirements but wish to volunteer on a limited basis can become Special Events volunteers.
This designation has no monthly time requirements but volunteers are asked to complete a
minimum of 4 hours per year. Special Events include Raise the Woof, Spring Jamboree and
Bow Wow Bash.
Volunteer Policies
Volunteer Sign-up
Misty Eyes uses an online scheduling tool called SignUp Genius. You can view open shifts and
sign up by visiting our web site (www.mistyeyes.org) and clicking on the Volunteer tab. Those
without Internet access can contact the Volunteer Lead to sign them up as needed. Reminder
emails are sent 24 hours prior to the scheduled activity. Please arrive 10 minutes before your
scheduled shift.
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Absences/Attendance
If a volunteer is going to be absent (illness, vacation, emergency, etc.), they should contact both
the Lead in which they are assigned and the Volunteer Lead as soon as they can, even if it is on
the day they are scheduled. It is the responsibility of the volunteer to report an absence. If a
volunteer needs to reschedule a shift prior to 24 hours, this can be done through the Misty Eyes
web site.
Volunteers should make every effort to fulfill volunteer commitments. Failure to report or
tardiness for a scheduled volunteer assignment without making contact with the appropriate
supervising member can affect the ability of Misty Eyes to serve the public. Absences are
recorded in the volunteer database. If a pattern of absences is observed, an inquiry may be
made to determine the volunteer's availability, interests, etc. Dependability is perhaps the most
significant contribution you can make.
Confidentiality
Volunteers are responsible for maintaining the confidentiality of all proprietary or privileged
information to which they are exposed while serving as a volunteer, whether this information
involves a single individual, guest or group. Failure to maintain confidentially will result in
dismissal from the Volunteer Program.
Dismissal
Any major infraction or disregard for the policies and procedures of Misty Eyes will result in
dismissal from the Volunteer Program. Volunteers may also be dismissed for any of the
following reasons: inconsistent attendance, not meeting Active Status or Special Events
Volunteer Requirements, poor treatment of guests and/or animals, violation of the Substance
Abuse Policy, or endangerment of volunteers (self included), guests or animals.
Security
Personal property is the responsibility of the volunteer. Try to leave valuables at home or in your
locked car.
Parking
Parking is determined at each individual event and will be communicated as part of the event
information. Volunteers at the Adoption Center should park behind the building along the fence
to allow visitors to park in front of the building. On Sundays parking is allowed in front of the
NAPA store as they are closed.
Sexual Harassment
Sexual harassment includes unwelcomed sexual advances, request of sexual favors, and other
verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature. Any such incidents should be reported
immediately to the Board and/or Volunteer Lead.
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Smoking Policy
The Misty Eyes Adoption Center is a smoke free facility. Smoking is permitted in designated
areas only.
Assumption of Risk
The volunteer hereby assumes responsibility for lost property, physical injuries, and medical
bills (except for activity that amounts to intentional and malicious actions). Volunteers may
have the opportunity for close contact with various animals and environmental conditions, all of
which can be unpredictable by nature. Volunteers can inquire at any time about the nature of
the work area(s), environmental conditions, safety and security procedures. In a medical
emergency, first aid procedures will be followed, which may include, but are not limited to, first
aid by qualified personnel, and contacting emergency medical personnel, the volunteer's
emergency contact, and/or family physician.
Gift of Right of Publicity
Volunteer irrevocably give, grant, and convey to Misty Eyes, its successors, agents, and
assigns, without compensation to the volunteer from any party including Misty Eyes, the
absolute right and unrestricted permission to copyright and/or use and/or publish (1) names, (2)
images or likeness on videotape, and (3) photographic pictures in which the volunteer may be
included, in whole or in part, on reproductions in color or in black and white, made through any
media, in connection with photos or videotape taken at Misty Eyes facilities for any purpose
whatsoever, including but not limited to, the promotion of Misty Eyes facilities and programs.
The volunteer waives any right to inspect or approve the finished product. The videotape,
photographs and digital files will be the sole property of Misty Eyes. This gift is binding on the
volunteers heirs, successors, and assigns.
Substance Abuse Policy
Misty Eyes recognizes that the use and abuse of drugs and alcohol can seriously impair an
individual's ability to perform safely and efficiently. Drug and alcohol use and abuse not only
jeopardize the safety of the public and your co-workers, they undermine the public's confidence
in Misty Eyes. Because a drug or alcohol impaired volunteer can pose a significant threat to the
safety of the public and co-workers, as well as the volunteer's own safety, Misty Eyes has
established this policy as part of its ongoing efforts to maintain a drug and alcohol free
workplace.
All Misty Eyes volunteers are expected to report free of alcohol and illegal drugs and not to sell,
distribute, dispense, possess, or use an illegal drug or alcohol or conspire to do so on Misty
Eyes premises or during volunteer time. Likewise, Misty Eyes volunteers are expected not to
misuse or abuse any prescription or nonprescription medications. Misty Eyes looks to all
volunteers to ensure quality service to the public and to better the overall safety, health,
productivity, and welfare of all. Volunteers are expected to cooperate in Misty Eyes efforts to
enforce this policy and in any investigation of its violation. If a volunteer suspects a violation of
the Substance Abuse Policy, they should report it immediately to the Volunteer Lead or another
Leadership Team member.
Violations of this policy will result in immediate dismissal from the Volunteer Program.
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Volunteer Uniform Policy
Volunteers are asked to abide by a dress code and wear comfortable clothing that you do not
mind getting dirty.
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You are required to wear a name tag. One will be provided.
Please wear comfortable closed toe shoes.
Do not wear pants with holes in them. Jeans or Khakis are preferred.
Wear your Misty Eyes volunteer t-shirt. A solid color long sleeved shirt can be worn
under your Misty Eyes t-shirt.
Volunteer Procedures
Signing in and Out
Adoption Center: There is a sheet available to sign in and sign out.
Signature Events: There will be a designated volunteer area for volunteers to sign in and out.
Any additional information needed to ensure a successful volunteer assignment will be provided
at that time along with meal tickets if appropriate.
Booths: Sheets will be available at the booth for volunteers to sign in and out.
Important reasons for signing in and maintaining volunteer time records:
 When a volunteer is signed in, we have an accurate headcount of who is working and
where they are located, should an emergency or security issue arise.
 The hours worked are tabulated annually.
 Records of hours in particular areas assist in evaluating specific volunteer programs and
may be used in grant proposals to fund those programs.
 They are used to provide data for annual volunteer awards.
 They provide verification of unpaid work experience that may be helpful when seeking
employment and a reference is needed.
Weather-Related Closing or Cancellation
Events will be cancelled and the Adoption Center will close only if the weather causes extremely
dangerous conditions. As a volunteer, you are not expected to take unnecessary risks during
extremely bad weather or driving conditions. Volunteers will be contacted in the event this
happens and will be noted on the Misty Eyes Facebook page.
Media Inquiries
Volunteers are not authorized to make statements to the media, officially or unofficially, at any
time. This is solely the function of the Misty Eyes Board. Direct any members of the media to
Renee Harlor. Consistency and accuracy of information is very important and this can only
happen when control is maintained. It is the responsibility of each volunteer to assist in this.
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Safety
Misty Eyes is committed to preventing problems before they happen by identifying potential
risks and developing a management plan to deal with them safely. With routine checks of
equipment, enclosures, animals, etc., we strive to provide a safe environment. Leads will
provide all information, direction, and training necessary to accomplish the tasks in which
volunteers are asked to participate.
Volunteer Responsibilities
Volunteers are asked to take an active role in volunteering safe and working smart. Report a
potential problem when it surfaces rather than waiting until it becomes a full-blown problem. If a
concern develops with a fellow volunteer, Volunteers should discuss the matter with the
Volunteer Lead.
Volunteers should maintain good physical condition and fitness. If a physical limitation develops,
report it to the Volunteer Lead immediately. If the limitation is the result of an injury sustained
while volunteering with Misty Eyes, report the incident to the appropriate supervisor at that time.
If medical assistance is required, find a volunteer to assist. If the limitation has developed
outside Misty Eyes (at home, work, etc.), report it to the Volunteer Lead so they are aware of
any limitations or the reason why you are unable to currently volunteer.
The most important safety guidelines to remember are:
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Human safety is our priority; do not put yourself or anyone else in a dangerous situation.
Report any injury, to a person or animal, to the appropriate supervisor at an event or the
Counselor on Duty at the Adoption Center.
If you are unsure about something, please ask.
Address any unsafe conditions (i.e., clean up a spill or feces/urine) or situations. If you
can’t resolve the condition yourself, immediately notify the appropriate supervisor.
Never try to break up an animal fight. Keep yourself and your hands away from the
head, neck and mouth area. Instead, make a loud noise but do not scream or raise
your voice. Rather, clap your hands, stomp your feet, bang on something, etc. to
distract the animals.
If someone is bitten or scratched badly by a dog or cat, notify the appropriate supervisor
immediately. Formal documentation of the bite must be prepared.
A top priority is maintaining a healthy environment and to prevent disease or the spread
of germs. Not matter what activity you undertake sanitization should be a top priority.
Please sanitize between each interaction with our animals.
Hazardous Materials
Most volunteers do not work with hazardous materials. Nevertheless, every volunteer needs to
know what hazardous materials are used in their area. Misty Eyes does not permit volunteers
to bring chemicals from home. All chemicals used must have the approval of the Director of
Animal Operations.
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Working Around Animals
There are inherent risks in working with animals. Volunteers should approach animals they are
not familiar with caution until they are provided with the necessary information. Especially
when our adoptables are in the Adoption Center, they may experience additional stress and
may not exhibit their normal behaviors. Volunteers working directly with our animals are
required to take the Misty Eyes Adoption Center training where additional information is
provided.
Accidents/Incidents
Any incidents must be reported and an incident report completed. Please see the appropriate
Lead (i.e. Board Member, Committee Lead, Counselor on Duty, etc.)
Tetanus
Tetanus shots are not mandatory but recommended for Adoption Center volunteers.
Volunteer Perks
Volunteer Appreciation Events
We understand that as our organization grows, its size can sometimes seem intimidating and it
becomes a challenge to meet other volunteers that we wouldn't normally see when we
volunteer. A Volunteer Appreciation event will be held twice a year in which the Board can
officially recognize the valuable contribution of time given in service to Misty Eyes.
Education and Training
Misty Eyes will provide education through the volunteer meetings and other training as
necessary. Volunteer continuing education will be held the second Tuesday from 6:30 to 7:30
p.m.
Tax Deductions
Although the value of services rendered to a non-profit organization is not deductible from
Federal Income Tax, the IRS may allow deductions for out-of-pocket, unreimbursed travel
expenses. Allowable deductions may include round-trip public transportation or travel by private
automobile, including parking fees, tolls, and a standard mileage rate determined annually by
the IRS. Consult your tax accountant.
Customer Service
Customer service saves lives isn't a phrase you hear often. In our business of saving animals It
makes perfect sense. Think of the excitement you feel when you are ready to add a new pet to
your family, you have thought of names and bought toys now you are off to find your new friend.
Think of how you would feel If those responsible for helping you find your new friend weren't
friendly, knowledgeable and professional. It would be very disappointing. You may even decide
to adopt elsewhere or to go to a breeder or a pet shop. You will probably tell your friends about
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the negative experience you had at Misty Eyes. Instead we want our potential adopters to have
such a great experience they have a reason to tell everyone about it! Remember average
experiences are forgotten, It Is the bad ones and amazing ones that are remembered and talked
about. Let's make every Misty Eyes visitor have an amazing story!
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Greet everyone with a warm smile and welcome them to Misty Eyes. Let them know
your name and that you are happy to answer any questions.
If you don't know an answer to a question let our visitor know you will find out. Be sure to
follow through.
Review all information available to you prior to starting your shift. This will help you
answer questions. Remember we are looking FOR reasons to adopt to people. You are
responsible for educating our visitors. Remember to always speak in a kind tone and
avoid speaking down to them.
If they are interested in volunteering share your experiences with them. Explain how they
can help.
Ask them what they think of the Center. (Let us know of visitor suggestions) Thank them
for stopping by, ask them to tell their friends about Misty Eyes.
Social Media Policy
We love seeing our volunteers communicate online. Facebook, Instagrams and Twitter are all
great ways to promote Misty Eyes. Unfortunately, social media can be an easy way to
represent yourself in a negative way. Even if profiles are set to private, often times they can
still be seen by others.
Please keep the following in mind:
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Don't complain about other volunteers.
Using "colorful" language puts your reputation, and the reputation of those you associate
with, in jeopardy.
Social media is not the place for confrontation. ,
Think of social media as a conversation. No one likes the person who only talks about
herself. Try posting interesting articles and thoughtful quotes!
Remember, what you post is out there for all to see. Forever. The Internet is NOT
private.
Evaluation
Misty Eyes wants your volunteer experience to be a positive one as volunteers are important for
the success of our organization. The Board encourages feedback on a regular basis;
volunteers are welcome to contact a Board member, the Volunteer Lead or utilize the
suggestion box at the Adoption Center. Surveys will be sent out annually to evaluate your
volunteer experience as well as to help us continue to improve our Volunteer Program.
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Reminders
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Always wear your volunteer name tag while volunteering for Misty Eyes. It identifies you
as a Misty Eyes volunteer to guests and other volunteers.
Wear appropriate dress at all times. Your personal appearance represents how you feel
about yourself as well as Misty Eyes. It also reflects the image of our organization to the
public. Wear your designated uniform so you are easily identifiable for volunteers and
guests.
Sign in and out for all shifts.
If you are unable to work your scheduled shift, please contact the Volunteer Lead.
Familiarize yourself with your Volunteer Handbook so that you are well informed about
volunteer policies and procedures. If you have any questions, please ask.
Read your Volunteer Newsletter each month to stay up to date with what's happening at
Misty Eyes. Volunteer opportunities are listed monthly to give volunteers the chance to
participate in other areas and special events.
Adoption Center
As the Misty Eyes Adoption Center has additional policies and procedures, a separate
handbook is available for Adoption Center volunteers.
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