Habitat for Humanity of Knox County — Volunteer Release and Waiver of Liability

This Release and Waiver of Liability (the “Release”) is executed on this day by the undersigned (the “Volunteer”) and, if applicable, by the undersigned legal guardian (the “Guardian”) for a minor volunteer under age 18, in favor of Habitat for Humanity International, Inc., a nonprofit corporation, and Habitat for Humanity of Knox County, Ohio, a nonprofit corporation, and their respective directors, officers, trustees, employees, sponsors, donors, volunteers, agents, and affiliates (collectively, the "Released Parties").

The Volunteer desires to work as a volunteer for one or more of the Released Parties and engage in related activities without compensation. These activities may include, but are not limited to: working in Habitat offices and on construction sites; volunteering at the Habitat for Humanity ReStore; loading and unloading materials; constructing, repairing, and rehabilitating residential buildings; participating in other construction or program-related volunteer activities; or fulfilling sweat equity hours as a Habitat partner family (collectively, the "Activities").

The Volunteer and/or Guardian freely and voluntarily executes this Release under the following terms:

1. Acknowledgment of Risk

I understand that participation in the Activities involves inherent risks, including but not limited to personal injury, illness (including exposure to mold, lead, or asbestos), permanent disability, property damage, or death ("Risks"). I acknowledge the risk of exposure to COVID-19 or other communicable diseases, despite reasonable efforts made to reduce such risks. I agree to follow all safety instructions given by any Released Party.

2. Release and Waiver

In consideration of being allowed to participate in the Activities, I hereby release, forever discharge, and hold harmless the Released Parties from any and all liability, claims, demands, damages, or costs of any kind, known or unknown, present or future, arising from or related to my participation in the Activities, including those caused in whole or in part by the negligence of the Released Parties or other volunteers, but excluding intentional misconduct or gross negligence.

I understand this waiver also extends to any protection afforded under future federal or state laws related to pandemic liability.

3. Assumption of Risk

I knowingly assume all Risks related to my participation, including any caused by my own health conditions or by failure to follow safety guidelines. I understand that the Released Parties do not provide medical, health, or disability insurance coverage. I am solely responsible for my own medical expenses and insurance coverage.

4. Age Restrictions

I understand that:

• Children under 16 are not permitted on active construction sites.
   

• Minors aged 16–17 may participate in limited activities, but are prohibited from using power tools, working at heights, excavation, or demolition.
  It is my responsibility to ensure any participating minors follow these restrictions.
   

5. Consent to Medical Treatment

I authorize the Released Parties to administer first aid and generic over-the-counter medication as needed. In case of emergency, I authorize medical, dental, or surgical treatment as deemed necessary by a qualified provider. I also authorize the Released Parties to arrange transportation for such treatment. I understand I am financially responsible for any resulting medical expenses.

6. Insurance

I understand the Released Parties do not carry insurance for volunteers. I am responsible for obtaining and maintaining my own health, medical, disability, or travel insurance. My personal insurance, if any, is my primary coverage.

7. Confidentiality

I agree to maintain the confidentiality of any personal or medical information I may access during my volunteer service and to comply with Habitat's confidentiality policies.

8. Photo and Media Release

I grant full permission to the Released Parties to use any photographs, video, audio, or electronic recordings taken of me (or my minor children) during volunteer Activities for promotional purposes without compensation or further approval. I waive all rights related to the use of my image, likeness, and voice.

9. Background Check Authorization

I authorize the Released Parties to conduct a background check, including criminal and sex offender registry screening, for the purpose of evaluating my suitability as a volunteer. This authorization is valid for the duration of my engagement with Habitat.

10. Miscellaneous

I intend this Release to be as broad and inclusive as permitted by the laws of the State of Ohio. If any portion of this Release is deemed invalid, the remainder shall remain in full force. A waiver of any part of this Release by a Released Party does not waive any other rights.

I have carefully read and fully understand this Release and Waiver of Liability. I am signing it voluntarily and intend for it to be legally binding on me, my heirs, successors, assigns, and legal representatives.