THE HOLDING FRAMES

I, the undersigned Volunteer, freely and voluntarily agree to release, discharge, and hold harmless The Holding Frames (a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation), its board members, officers, employees, agents, and partner organizations from any and all claims, demands, or causes of action that I may have or acquire against The Holding Frames arising from my volunteer activities.

This release includes, but is not limited to, any claims for bodily injury, personal injury, emotional distress, illness, death, or property damage that may occur during volunteer activities, whether caused by negligence or otherwise.

I understand that The Holding Frames does not provide medical, health, or disability insurance for volunteers, and I am responsible for obtaining my own coverage.

I understand that volunteer activities with The Holding Frames may involve:

• Working alongside individuals and communities affected by disaster, violence, or loss
• Hearing stories of grief, trauma, or hardship
• Participating in emotionally meaningful but potentially heavy experiences
• Traveling to communities that have experienced tragedy (Frame Forwards)

I acknowledge that this work may bring up difficult emotions, including my own. I agree to:

• Monitor my own wellbeing before, during, and after events
• Step back from any activity that feels beyond my current capacity
• Seek support if I experience emotional distress related to my volunteer work
• Communicate with facilitators or staff if I need assistance

In the event of injury, illness, or medical emergency during my volunteer activities, I authorize The Holding Frames and its representatives to seek and consent to emergency medical treatment on my behalf if I am unable to do so myself.

I release The Holding Frames from any liability arising from first aid, medical treatment, or emergency services rendered in connection with my volunteer activities.

I grant The Holding Frames permission to photograph, film, and record my participation in volunteer activities. I understand these images and recordings may be used for:

• Social media and website content
• Fundraising and donor communications
• Educational materials and presentations
• Media coverage and press releases
• Grant applications and impact reports

I waive any right to inspect or approve the finished images or recordings, and I release The Holding Frames from any claims arising from their use.

I understand that:

• I may request to opt out of being photographed at any specific event by notifying the facilitator
• This release does not obligate The Holding Frames to use any images of me
• Images will be used in ways that respect the dignity of all participants

I agree to maintain the confidentiality of all participants, their stories, and any personal information I may encounter during volunteer activities. I will not share identifying details about participants on social media, with press, or in personal conversations without explicit permission from The Holding Frames.

I agree to:

• Treat all participants, fellow volunteers, and staff with respect and dignity
• Follow the guidance of Certified Ambassadors at all events
• Complete required training before participating in Gatherings
• Represent The Holding Frames with professionalism and care
• Refrain from giving advice, counseling, or therapy to participants
• Abstain from alcohol and controlled substances during volunteer activities

I understand that The Holding Frames reserves the right to dismiss any volunteer whose conduct is inconsistent with these expectations.

This Release and Waiver is effective for one (1) year from the date of signing and covers all volunteer activities during that period. I may be asked to renew this agreement annually.

By signing below (or checking the agreement box in the volunteer portal), I confirm that:

• I am at least 18 years of age (or have parent/guardian consent if under 18)
• I have read and understand this entire document
• I agree to all terms voluntarily and without duress
• I understand this is a legally binding agreement