In order to best serve both the students and the volunteers, it is important that all staff and representatives present consistent communication to potential volunteers. The following are our expectations as an organization.

Entry Process for Volunteers
Each new volunteer must be directly referred by an IFI staff member or complete an application form and provide references. All volunteers must submit to a background check and participate in the New Volunteer Training Session prior to approval as a volunteer. Following approval, the volunteer may freely participate in various activities.

Requirements for Participation with IFI:

1. Complete the new volunteer application form, which includes reading and agreeing with this Volunteer Policy, IFI’s Statement of Faith, and the IFI Volunteer Liability Release Form.

2. Provide 2 references who are not related and have known you for at least 1 year. One must be from a pastor or small group leader.

3. Complete an IFI background check. Note: Those wishing to have students in their home for a meal or house them overnight must also have the adults residing in the home undergo a background check.

4. Participate in a New Volunteer Training Session. Issues related to befriending students from a different culture will be covered as well as the IFI vision, mission, and values. This can be done in-person or online.

5. Christian Community: Volunteers must demonstrate faith in and obedience to Jesus and be actively involved in a local church for fellowship, accountability, and Biblical teaching.

6. Character: Volunteers must exhibit a lifestyle that demonstrates maturity, emotional stability, healthy relationships, and a stable living situation.

7. Teachable Spirit: Working with people from other cultures requires that the volunteer take the role of a learner, be willing to understand and accept cultural differences, and learn how to be sensitive to those who hold different spiritual beliefs.

8. Under no circumstances shall a volunteer share their faith with others in a threatening or coercive manner. 

**Because volunteers will represent IFI to the students, IFI reserves the right to make decisions regarding the approval of volunteers. We also reserve the right to deactivate previously approved volunteers if we feel it is in the best interest of students to do so.