The World Equality Association (DED-E) is an independent, non-profit, non-governmental organization based in Istanbul, operating on the principles of social equality and justice. The association works to increase access to human rights and improve the quality of life of disadvantaged groups such as women, children, youth, refugees, migrants, and individuals with disabilities. DED-E aims to build an inclusive and just society through advocacy, capacity building, social services, research, education, and international collaboration.
This policy document was prepared to clearly define the duties, rights, and responsibilities of volunteers who wish to collaborate with the association and to establish an institutional foundation for the volunteering process. The document prioritizes transparency, accountability, and mutual respect in volunteer management processes.
VOLUNTEER DEFINITION
A volunteer is someone who contributes to the work of the World Equality Association without receiving any financial compensation or expecting any other form of compensation, with the aim of generating social benefit. By sharing their skills, knowledge, and experience with the association, they increase the effectiveness of its activities and strengthen the culture of solidarity.
WHO CAN VOLUNTEER?
– Anyone over the age of 18 can volunteer after completing the necessary orientation and information process.
– Anyone without a criminal record can volunteer.
– Individuals between the ages of 15 and 18 can apply with written parental consent.
– DED-E accepts no discrimination in volunteer selection. It conducts the process with an egalitarian approach, regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, language, gender, disability, political affiliation, or socioeconomic status.
VOLUNTEER TERM
– Volunteering is a minimum of one month, but short-term participation in projects, campaigns, and event-based roles is also possible.
– Commitment and regular participation are expected for long-term volunteer positions.
VOLUNTEER PROCESS
Application: Completion of the volunteer form.
Interview and evaluation: One-on-one meetings with the relevant coordinator.
Orientation: Information about the association’s structure, policies, and activities.
Placement: Guidance to a unit and project appropriate to the volunteer’s skills.
Monitoring and evaluation: Regular review of the volunteering process.
VOLUNTEER RIGHTS
– Being subject to a transparent and fair selection process.
– The opportunity to contribute to any project that does not conflict with the association’s values.
– Benefiting from orientation and training programs.
– The right to receive feedback and express one’s opinions.
– Being free from labor exploitation and financial harm from volunteering.
– Demanding a safe, respectful, and supportive work environment.
– Protecting personal data and ensuring confidentiality.
VOLUNTEER RESPONSIBILITIES
– Respecting the association’s mission, vision, and ethical principles.
– Participating regularly and on time within the assigned assignment.
– To keep confidential any personal and corporate information learned during activities.
– To demonstrate a respectful and inclusive attitude towards those with whom we collaborate.
– To never shy away from giving and receiving feedback.
– To ensure regular participation in training, audits, and monitoring meetings.
– To avoid violations such as discrimination, harassment, mobbing, and violence, and to report any such violations if witnessed.
THE ASSOCIATION’S RESPONSIBILITIES TOWARDS VOLUNTEERS
– To clearly communicate job descriptions and expectations to volunteers.
– To provide a safe, healthy, and accessible work environment.
– To provide training that supports volunteer development.
– To recognize their contributions and respect their efforts.
– In the case of activities requiring expenditures and work undertaken within the scope of an EU project, the association will be provided with funding and a budget allocated to volunteers. This will be provided to the funding agency, provided the funding agency approves the decision.
– Provide clear and constructive feedback on performance.
– Operate grievance mechanisms effectively and securely.
VIOLATION AND REPORTING MECHANISMS
– Volunteers may directly appeal any violation of rights, discrimination, harassment, or security risk they encounter to the volunteer coordinator or association management.
– Applications are evaluated confidentially and meticulously.
– In serious cases, independent evaluation processes may be initiated.
REGISTRATION AND DOCUMENTATION
– A personal file is opened for each volunteer (Volunteer Application Form).
– The duration of the activity, job description, training, and contributions are documented.
– A reference letter and certificate of participation may be issued for long-term volunteers.
This policy document was approved by the World Equality Association Board of Directors on June 29, 2025.
The document may be reviewed and updated as needed.
Signature
Association President Vice President Treasurer
Secretary Member