Remote Volunteer Agreement: Understanding the Non-Compete Clause
Volunteering is a great way to give back to your community or a cause you care about, and many individuals are now opting to volunteer remotely. With remote volunteering, individuals can contribute to a cause without leaving their homes.
While volunteering remotely, a volunteer agreement becomes necessary to ensure that the volunteer understands the expectations and responsibilities, as well as legal restrictions that need to be followed. One of the essential clauses that need to be incorporated in the remote volunteer agreement is the non-compete clause.
What is a Non-Compete Clause?
A non-compete clause is a legal agreement that restricts individuals from engaging in activities that may be deemed competitive or harmful to the organization they volunteer for. The clause usually outlines the type of activities that are restricted, the duration of the restriction, and the geographic scope of the restriction.
Why is a Non-Compete Clause Important in a Remote Volunteer Agreement?
Remote volunteering involves the sharing of important information, resources, and intellectual property between the volunteer and the organization. A non-compete clause serves as a protective measure for the organization, as it ensures that the volunteer does not share sensitive information or use their acquired knowledge and skills to compete against the organization they are volunteering for.
Additionally, a non-compete clause provides assurance to donors and stakeholders that their resources and investment are fully protected from any potential harm that may arise from the volunteer`s involvement.
What Should be Included in a Non-Compete Clause?
A remote volunteer agreement`s non-compete clause should be clear and concise, outlining the prohibited activities, duration, and geographic scope. Below are some essential elements that should be included:
1. Prohibited activities
The clause should outline the specific activities that the volunteer is prohibited from engaging in, such as working for a similar organization or using organization knowledge for personal gain.
2. Duration
The non-compete clause should specify the duration of the restriction. Typically, this will depend on the nature of the organization and the volunteer`s involvement. Usually, the restriction period is between six months to two years.
3. Geographic scope
The restriction`s geographic scope should also be specified as it can vary depending on the organization`s reach and the volunteer`s location. For instance, if the organization operates locally, the restriction should be limited to the specific geographical area.
Conclusion
A non-compete clause is a crucial element of a remote volunteer agreement, and it serves to protect the organization and its resources from potential harm that may arise from the volunteer`s involvement. Therefore, it is essential for both the organization and volunteer to understand and agree to the terms of the agreement before commencing the remote volunteering.