Volunteering at UMES
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s) on Volunteering at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore
Q: How Do I Volunteer at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore?
A: Contact the department you wish to provide support to as a volunteer and schedule an appointment with the department head.
Q: How old do I have to be in order to Volunteer?
A: You have to be 18 years of age.
Q: What happens after I meet with the department head?
A: During the meeting the Department Head will provide you with a release form so a criminal background check can be completed. Once the form is processed and the results are returned, the Department Head will process Volunteer Forms which includes the Volunteer Application, Policy, Agreement, and General Release from Liability.
Q: How long does the process take to become a Volunteer?
A: Once the approved volunteer forms are returned to the Office of Human Resources and the volunteer completes the emergency contact and HR data form they may begin volunteering.
Q: May I volunteer in more than one department?
A: Yes. However, separate forms must be completed for each department.
Q: How long can I volunteer?
A: You may volunteer as long as you wish to support a department. However, new volunteer forms must be completed after one year.
Q: Can I apply for advertised positions while volunteering?
A: Yes. Just follow the process under the, “How do I get hired at UMES” frequently asked questions.
Q: Can I volunteer and be an employee?
A: Yes. However, volunteer forms must be completed by the department that you wish to volunteer in.
Q: If I stop volunteering in a department does it prevent me from being hired or volunteering in a different department?
A: No, as long as the circumstances in which you left the department were positive.
Q: If I volunteer in a department and a vacancy is advertised in that department, will it increase my chances of being selected for the position?
A: No. All applicants will have their application materials reviewed based on the qualifications for the position, how they performed during the interview, and the results of reference and background checks.
Q: Can I be related to the person I report to as a volunteer?
A: No.
Q: What if I have negative information reported on my criminal background check? Will it automatically make me ineligible to become a volunteer?
A: No. Results with incidents reported are reviewed by the General Counsel for approval to be hired or to be able to volunteer.
Q: Do I have any grievance rights as a Volunteer?
A: No, you cannot grieve an issue. We expect all employees whether you are an employee or a volunteer on the campus to be treated in a respectful manner. If as a volunteer you encounter problems you should discuss your concerns with the department head or contact the Director of Human Resources.
Q: Will my time as a Volunteer if I am hired in a regular position accrue toward retirement and other benefits?
A: No. Retirement and other benefits are tied to regular positions.
