Denver Audubon Volunteer Code of Conduct

As a Denver Audubon volunteer, you serve as an ambassador for our mission, programs, and core values. We offer a wide range of programs to the community, and our goal is to provide an enjoyable, inclusive experience for everyone while modeling responsible outdoor stewardship.


We celebrate and value people of every age, race, national origin, citizenship, ethnicity, sex, gender identity and expression, class, ability or disability, sexual orientation, and political or religious belief. To ensure a safe, welcoming, and effective environment for our community, staff, and local wildlife, all volunteers must review and agree to these standards.


1. Professionalism & Representation

  • Mission Alignment: Understand and actively support Denver Audubon’s mission, policies, and procedures.
  • Public & Visitor Interactions: Maintain a professional, friendly, and respectful demeanor while providing a welcoming, educational experience for all visitors. Always respect personal space and ensure you obtain explicit permission before touching a participant or assisting them with equipment. 
  • Commitment & Expectations: Offer your unique skills, experience, and knowledge to the organization. Complete orientation, background check, and training. Be flexible in accepting assignments, perform assigned responsibilities willingly and courteously to the best of your ability, and accept guidance from staff. 
  • Uniform & Dress Code: Present a neat and professional appearance. Wear your Denver Audubon volunteer name tag and volunteer hat if available. Wear clean, weather-appropriate attire and footwear. (No tank tops, flip-flops, torn/stained clothing, sweats, or short attire).
  • Confidentiality & Media: Protect confidential organizational, financial, and proprietary information. Direct all media inquiries (TV, radio, press) to Denver Audubon staff.


2. Safety, Health, & Conduct Standards

  • Zero-Tolerance Policy: Denver Audubon strictly prohibits any form of violence, physical punishment, verbal abuse, harassment, or intimidation toward staff, volunteers, or the public.
  • Sexual Harassment: Explicit or implicit unwanted sexual conduct—whether verbal, written, or physical—is strictly forbidden.
  • Drug & Alcohol-Free Environment: Reporting to duty under the influence of drugs or alcohol (including legal marijuana) is prohibited.
  • Tobacco & Smoke-Free Policy: Smoking and all forms of tobacco use are strictly forbidden inside buildings and on all Denver Audubon or contracted properties.
  • Cell Phone Usage: Refrain from personal cell phone use during shifts unless communicating with staff/volunteers or addressing an emergency.


3. Outdoor Ethics & Responsibilities

  • Leave No Trace Principles: Model Leave No Trace principles, stay on marked trails, do not disturb or feed wildlife, and pack out all trash.
  • Respect Wildlife: Keep a respectful distance from birds and other animals, avoiding any disturbance to their natural behavior or habitat. Refrain from using audio playbacks or pishing during any outdoor programs.


4. Attendance & Volunteer Responsibilities

  • Punctuality & Notice: Arrive on time for scheduled shifts. If an absence is unavoidable, notify staff at least 48 hours in advance (or text your staff contact directly if under 24 hours). Please note that two unexcused absences (no-shows) may result in removal from the volunteer portal. 
  • Logging Hours: Accurately track and submit your volunteer hours, training time, and travel mileage at the end of each month via the Volunteer Hub.