Volunteer Information

Please read to learn more about getting involved and sign up below.

Volunteers should be in good health to undergo the challenges of working on Perception. Sailing risks include seasickness, rope burns, strenuous work raising sails and anchors, exposure to sun, wind, rain, hail, and heavy weather, and danger from materials dropped from aloft. Close quarters and minimal privacy can also be expected when staying on the boat.

The off-season risks may include: climbing a ladder safely, working on the deck 10 feet off the ground, and the usual hazards around a work space.

Under no circumstances are volunteers to work under the influences of legal or illegal consciousness-altering drugs or alcohol, or possess such items on board, as they may compromise judgment and the safety of all aboard.

Volunteers who work with youth on board will be required to undergo a background check. Youth must be treated in a caring, non-judgmental manner with the understanding that they have suffered the loss of a parent, and that they have joined us to experience the joy of sailing and the companionship of their peers.

Ethical Conduct: The Key to a Happy Boat

Respect the chain of command
The acting Captain has final approval of all events onboard
Do everything possible to achieve excellence in conduct and deliver the highest quality service and training
Show respect for volunteers in language and actions, and through the exercise of fundamental human courtesy and a respect for diversity of all people
Treat fellow volunteers and youth with honesty.
Treat people fairly without regard to race, sex, religion, age, disability, or national origin
Set aside conflicts with others.
Protect Michigan Challenge’s, resources and equipment.
Respect privacy, confidentiality and personal exchange of information.
Strive for excellence by maintaining and enhancing knowledge and skills
Strive to maintain continuous and positive communication between volunteers, members, and guests.
Know and obey laws, statutes, and regulations pertaining to my position. Accept full responsibility and consequences for any violation
Accept and provide review and criticism from peers.
Honor contracts, agreements, and assigned responsibilities
Improve public understanding of Michigan Challenge Traditional Sail Training, and encourage people to visit mighiganchallenge.org
Support and help all volunteers so that they can achieve a high level of success.
Use Michigan Challenge training materials and resources in proper and authorized manner.
Use all resources available to provide a safe learning environment following USCG mandated criteria for all volunteers.
Assume responsibility for the safety of volunteers and guests.
Behave in an ethical and safe manner while carrying out all responsibilities associated with Michigan Challenge’s volunteer program.

Safety Rules

Michigan Challenge Traditional Sail Training

Wear Eye Protection when using power tools.
Wear a Respirator when in a dusty or toxic environment.
Wear a life jacket when required.
Avoid Falls: One hand for yourself, one hand for the boat.
Wear a Hard Hat when someone is working aloft.
Wear Approved Climbing Gear while aloft.
Do Not possess or work under the influence of alcohol, controlled substances, or judgment-altering prescription medications.
Do Not Smoke on board. The large amount of woodwork on board is a fire hazard.
Clean Up before you leave the boatyard or dock for the day. Put tools and materials back where you found them and pick up any trash. Lock up if you are the last person to leave. Contact the board member in charge if you have a question or concern (see contact info posted in the aft cabin).

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