Staff and volunteers.
WHAT OBLIGATIONS APPLY
The same employment obligations as any employer.
WHY THAT NEEDS SAYING
Nonprofits frequently assume the purpose excuses informality.
WHAT THAT PRODUCES
Claims, penalties and reputational damage.
WHAT TO ESTABLISH
Written contracts Proper payroll and statutory remittances Leave records Policies
WHAT TO PAY
Enough to attract and keep capable people.
WHY THAT IS CONTESTED
Funders and donors sometimes expect low salaries.
WHAT LOW SALARIES PRODUCE
Turnover, inexperience, and worse outcomes for beneficiaries.
WHAT TO ARTICULATE
That capable staff deliver more per unit of funding.
WHAT VOLUNTEERS ARE
People giving time without payment.
WHAT TO ESTABLISH ABOUT THEM
What they will do What supervision they receive What checks apply What expenses are covered
WHY CHECKS MATTER
Volunteers working with vulnerable people require the same scrutiny as staff.
WHAT TO AVOID
Volunteers performing roles that are effectively employment Depending on volunteers for critical functions
WHY THAT SECOND POINT
Volunteers leave without notice, legitimately.
WHAT TO PROVIDE VOLUNTEERS
Clear tasks Training Recognition Someone responsible for them
WHY RECOGNITION
It is the return they receive.
WHAT TO RECORD
Volunteer hours, which evidence contribution to funders.
