As a volunteer, one upholds Hands On Manila’s vision and mission. Here is a guide that will help you keep true to HOM’s values when dealing with beneficiaries of partner organizations in whatever volunteer activity you choose.

1. be at the children’s eye level when speaking to them.
2. respect expressions of emotions.
3. be supportive. Offer lots of positive reinforcement.
4. respect the child’s right to privacy.
5. give the child real choices. If there are options, make them known.
6. understand that not all children are raised the same.
7. lead by example. If you want the child to take part in the activity, make sure you are taking part as well.

1. talk down to children.
2. make promises you  may not be able to keep.
3. talk in a negative manner.
4. lose your self-control. If you find you are losing patience, get someone else to take your place for a while.

1. understand that people who are differently-abled do have many abilities. They are just stronger in some and weaker in others.
2. introduce and share something about yourself before inquiring about them.
3. ask them about what they can do, and how to adopt activities to their ability level.
4. assist the individual only when help is requested, or when you sense that help is needed. Try not to smother the individual by helping even when it is not necessary.
5. communicate in a patient, open manner.
6. speak slowly and in a normal tone when talking to someone who is hearing-impaired.  Look directly at the person when you speak and use visuals if necessary.
7. realize that when working with someone who is visually impaired, you must work mainly through the modalities of sense and touch.

1. underestimate the abilities of the individual who you are working with.
2. have pre-determined limits of performance set in your mind before the activity even begins. Be open-minded!
3. sensationalize the accomplishments of a person with disability. You should recognize and applaud their achievements, but please don’t exaggerate.
4. use inappropriate terminology when referring to individuals with disabilities. They are differently-abled, not crippled, and their disabilities do not have to be considered negative, so please don’t refer to them as victims, or term them unfortunate or special.

1. dress neatly and tastefully. Wear modest clothes that are in accordance with accepted social standards.
2. deal with residents in a courteous and respectful manner.
3. communicate pleasantly and respectfully with other volunteers at all times.
4. bring your positive attitude and enthusiasm with you.

1. ignore or leave them behind to go or do another task. Ask or inform them whenever you will leave.
2. be afraid to ask questions, or for help on a task if you are at all unsure of what to do.

1. be aware of over affectionate acts. Street children seek attention and may cling to you. Respond appropriately but do not encourage too close physical contact.
2. if you want to give, give to all. Street children are competitive and can easily get envious if one individual receives more than others. Giving to only one can be a cause of conflict.
3. give loot bags of individual food treats. Street children will not eat the food you give but instead save them for their families for later. Giving out loot bags will enable them to share some with their families.
4. share a little of yourself. Street children will tell a lot about themselves but they also appreciate learning about you.
5. encourage and boost their morale. When you see something positive in what they do, praise them to lift their confidence and self-esteem.

1. scold the children. When you see a child doing something inappropriate, do not directly scold or stop the child. Explain, not lecture. When you wish to teach a child, explain the act and its consequences instead of simply stopping and scolding.
2. give money nor brand new clothes or toys. Street children may spend or trade your gift on things that are not good for them such as drugs or even computer games.
3. ask too personal questions, especially if it’s simply out of curiosity. Many of them have experienced traumatic incidents and you may appear to be prying into their private and personal circumstances. Let them tell you their stories on their own volition.
4. make promises. Volunteers are often affected and saddened by the circumstances of street children that they make promises they might not be able to keep. Street children can act/dramatize and be manipulative. Let the street educator know of the child’s needs and determine how the need can be resolved.
5. discriminate against any of the street children. Some children may appear more loveable or friendly. Welcome and accept all the children with open arms.
6. bring your valuables including cellphones. Street children are easily tempted so you should take the necessary safety precautions.

1. dress appropriately—comfy cotton shirts, longs pants, sturdy shoes/boots, a hat, insect repellant and sunscreen (depending on the weather) will be necessary.
2. be prepared for strenuous labor.
3. watch out for possible allergens! Determine if the project will expose you to substance that may be harmful to you and take the necessary precautions.
4. be ready for any kind of weather!
5. return all the tools and supplies to their proper place.
6. bring your positive attitude, teamwork skills, and enthusiasm with you!

1. forget to drink lots of water while you are working.
2. hesitate to take a break or go inside if you aren’t feeling well.
3. wear any kind of open-toed shoes to the project.
4. be afraid to ask for help on a task if you feel you are unable to complete it.