Volunteer
HI-USA
Volunteer Information
Basic Information
Volunteers are asked to work a minimum of 8 hours per month, for at least 4 months.
Individual volunteer hours are recorded on a Volunteer Log, kept in a binder at the front desk. Each time you participate in an activity, record your hours.
To better evaluate our programs, comment cards are filled out by all participants at the completion of an activity. If you are the activity leader, it is your responsibility to pass out the comment cards and return them to the Volunteer & Activities Coordinator.
A newsletter, Volunteer InterAction, is mailed to volunteers bi- monthly. The newsletter includes a calendar of programs for the upcoming months. Volunteers review the calendar and contact the Program Director to sign up for specific activities.
The hostel will reimburse volunteers for the following expenses:
- Public Transportation—round trip, beginning from the hostel.
- Admission Fees: Program Materials (i.e. decorations, photo copies, movie rental). All program materials must be approved by the Program Director prior to purchase.
- Parking Fees: Volunteers are highly encouraged to find free parking, but will be reimbursed for parking expenses up to $5 daytime (7 a.m. - 5 p.m.) and $7 evening (5 p.m. – 7 a.m.)
Liability and Risk Management
Hostelling International USA’s insurance policy covers all staff
and volunteers working on behalf of the local council and national organization.
In addition, for activities involving extensive travel or greater risk
of injury, a liability release form will be signed by all participants.
Consult the Program Director before leading an activity if you have any
questions regarding liability and/or risk management.
Hostelling International USA’s insurance policy does not cover use of personal vehicles. Volunteers and staff are strictly prohibited from transporting hostel guests in their private vehicles. Volunteers are also prohibited from leading and/or participating in “pub crawls” or activities that have a primary purpose of alcohol consumption.
As a volunteer, you are a representative of the HI-AYH organization and have a responsibility to maintain a professional working relationship with hostel staff, volunteers, and guests. Frequently, you may have the opportunity to interact socially with hostel staff and guests
More Information
Share your love of the San Diego community by leading hostel guests on day trips or walking tours.
The Information Desk provides help and information to hostellers regarding local transportation or services; tips on dining or entertainment; etc.
- The opportunity to meet travelers from around the world.
- Practice language skills.
- Gain public relations experience.
- Meet fellow HI-USA volunteers and participate in volunteer social events.
- Accrue hours toward free hostel overnights, free memberships, travel services discounts, and more!
- Help travelers with trip planning and answer their questions at our Information Desk.
- Bring your cooking skills to our Cultural Kitchen program.
- Inspire others to travel by joining our Outbound Travel Speaker's Bureau!