I understand that I am volunteering my time and services to First Presbyterian Church of Hayward (hereinafter "FirstPres"), a nonprofit religious corporation, without compensation.

I understand that my volunteer activities may include, but are not limited to, community outreach, events, service projects, food distribution, shelter support, childcare or youth activities, facility projects, landscaping/garden projects, administrative work, and other activities assigned or approved by FirstPres.

I understand that I am responsible for following all applicable FirstPres policies, safety procedures, instructions, and directions provided by FirstPres staff or designated supervisors.

I understand that volunteer activities may involve risks, including but not limited to:

• Slips, trips, falls, and other accidental injuries;
• Lifting, carrying, moving, or handling equipment or materials;
• Exposure to weather, traffic, animals, or other environmental conditions;
• Interaction with members of the public, guests, clients, children, or other participants;
• Exposure to communicable illnesses or infectious diseases;
• Use of tools, equipment, vehicles, or other property;
• Travel to and from volunteer activities;
• Risks associated with emergency situations or unforeseen circumstances; and
• Other risks that may arise from the particular volunteer activity.

I understand that not all risks can be anticipated or eliminated.

I voluntarily choose to participate in the volunteer activities and knowingly assume the ordinary risks associated with those activities.

I agree to exercise reasonable care for my own safety and to immediately notify FirstPres staff of any unsafe condition, injury, accident, or other concern.

I agree, for myself, my heirs, assigns, executors, and administers, to assume all risk to my person or property arising from my volunteer service, including, but not limited to, injury and/or death. I release and discharge FirstPres, its officers, directors, employees, agents, and volunteers (Releasees) from all claims, demands, and actions for any damage and/or injuries sustained to my person and/or property in conjunction with my volunteer service to FirstPres. I also agree to hold FirstPres and its Releasees harmless from any claims, demands, and actions arising from my volunteer service. I also waive the protection afforded by California Civil Code Section 1542, which provides:

A general release does not extend to claims which the creditor [i.e., volunteer] does not know or suspect to exist in his or her favor at the time of executing the release, which if known by him or her must have materially affected his or her settlement with the debtor [i.e., FirstPres].

If I become ill or injured while participating in volunteer activities and am unable to provide instructions regarding my care, I authorize FirstPres, when reasonably necessary, to seek emergency medical assistance on my behalf.

I understand that FirstPres is not responsible for the cost of medical treatment, transportation, or other medical expenses incurred as a result of my participation in volunteer activities, except as otherwise required by law.

I understand that I am responsible for my personal belongings and agree that FirstPres is not responsible for loss, theft, or damage to personal property brought to or used during volunteer activities, except as otherwise required by law.

I understand that, through my volunteer service, I may encounter confidential or private information concerning individuals served by FirstPres, including guests, clients, children, families, employees, or community members. I agree not to disclose or misuse confidential or private information obtained through my volunteer service and to follow FirstPres's confidentiality, privacy, and data-protection policies.

I agree to conduct myself in a manner consistent with FirstPres's mission, values, policies, and expectations. I understand that FirstPres may discontinue my volunteer service at any time if it determines that my conduct, performance, or presence is inconsistent with its policies, safety requirements, or mission.

I understand that my participation as a volunteer does not create an employment relationship with FirstPres. I understand that I am not entitled to wages, salary, employee benefits, or other compensation for my volunteer services, except where otherwise required by law.

I agree to follow reasonable safety instructions given by FirstPres staff or designated supervisors. I understand that I may decline to participate in an activity if I reasonably believe that I am not qualified or able to perform it safely, and I will communicate that concern to the appropriate FirstPres representative.

I have read this Volunteer Liability Waiver and Release and understand its contents. I have had the opportunity to ask questions before signing it. I understand that I am voluntarily participating in activities for FirstPres and that this agreement is intended to establish my understanding of the risks associated with my volunteer service. I sign this agreement voluntarily and without coercion.