So you want to volunteer?

Step One:

We ask that if you are interested in volunteering that you submit a statement explaining why you are excited to volunteer at the Collective. These can be sent to bloom [ - @ - ] mediamouse.org or brought to the Collective at 1134 Wealthy Street.

Step Two:

Next you should attend one of our delicious vegan potlucks held every month in order for you to meet us and us to meet you. Be sure to introduce yourself so we know who you are!

Step Three:

Finally, within a week after the potluck we will contact you about coming in for an orientation. At this time we will go over the specifics of volunteering at the space; the history of infoshops, the history of the Bloom Collective, and anti-oppression principles.

Volunteer tasks may include but are not limited to:

• Working at the Bloom Collective during open hours:
  • Greeting patrons
  • Helping to locate materials for those needing assistance
  • Checking materials in and out
  • Re-shelving returned materials
  • Entering new members into the computer system
  • Entering new materials into the computer system
  • Collecting donations
  • Sweeping the floor
  • Watering plants
  • Taking out the trash
  • Taking in the sign and flag at closing
• Tabling with collective members
• Creating new fliers and handouts about the Bloom Collective
• Help with events or projects being put on by the Bloom Collective
• Volunteers are expected to attend semi-weekly meetings

Criteria for being a volunteer:

• Volunteers must be a member of the Bloom Collective lending library
• Volunteers will be given and must agree to a Bloom Collective points of unity

Volunteer Conduct:

Volunteers are expected to act in a respectful manner towards patrons, the community, and the space. The Bloom Collective strives to make the infoshop a "safe space" free of oppression, discrimination, domination, and coercion. Volunteers should also be sensitive to and respectful of the race and class dynamics of the neighborhood. The same is true for any unequal power dynamics such as racism, sexism, classism, heterosexism, etc. This does not mean that we all act perfectly, nor do we never make mistakes and offend. However, we should all try to act justly and hold each other accountable.

Once a member:

Upon becoming a volunteer, volunteers will have the opportunity to participate in the decision-making process at the Bloom Collective:

• Volunteers will be allowed to participate in the semi-weekly Collective meetings.
• Announcements of meetings will be sent informing volunteers one week in advance.
• At these meetings, volunteers are encouraged to voice concerns, share ideas, and participate how they see fit.
• Decisions will be made via consensus with the process explained at the start of each meeting (as needed).
• Note: In order for decisions to be made, 80% of volunteers and Collective members must be present.

In addition, minutes from the Collective meetings will be made available online for review.

Accountability Process

#1 - If Collective members are in the space with a volunteer and a volunteer or Collective member makes a comment or behaves in an offensive or inappropriate manner, it should be documented. The Collective member is encouraged to speak with the volunteer to identify what was objectionable in a way that is constructive and respectful. This should happen only when the space is free of patrons so as not to unnecessarily embarrass or criticize anyone.

#2 - If certain volunteers are engaging in unacceptable behaviors which are repeated, Collective members will tell the volunteer that they can no longer act in the capacity of a volunteer. (This is all deliberated during Bloom Collective meetings.)

Points of Unity:

The "points of unity" are based on the People's Global Action "Hallmarks" developed out of the anti-globalization movement by popular movements around the world.

1. A very clear rejection of capitalism, imperialism and feudalism; all trade agreements, institutions and governments that promote oppression.
2. We reject all forms and systems of domination and discrimination including, but not limited to, patriarchy, racism and religious fundamentalism of all creeds.
   We embrace the full dignity of all human beings.
3. A confrontational attitude, since we do not think that lobbying can have a major impact in a society in which power is dominated by the few.
4. A call to direct action and civil disobedience, support for social movements' struggles, advocating forms of resistance which maximize respect for life and oppressed peoples' rights, as well as the construction of local alternatives to global capitalism.
5. An organizational philosophy based on decentralization and autonomy.