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Did you know that eligible employees have access to School Assistance & Volunteer Services Leave? This benefit provides paid time away from work so you can support schools, volunteer organizations, and community service efforts. The leave is available under Commonwealth of Virginia policy and is one of the many ways employees can engage with and give back to their communities.
What Is School Assistance & Volunteer Services Leave?
Eligible Service Agencies: A public or private nonprofit organization that is representative of a community or a significant segment of a community, and is engaged in meeting human, educational, environmental, or public safety community needs. Excluded is service provided through a church where the only recipients of the service are the constituents of the church (e.g. painting and maintenance of church buildings, yard work, serving on the church Board, etc.). Note: Activities involving political groups or causes do not qualify for use of this leave.
School Assistance: Participation in school activities including meeting with teachers or school administrators, attending school functions or performing volunteer work, as described in this policy, which has been approved by a teacher or school administrator.
Eligible employees may receive:
- Up to 16 hours of paid leave per leave year to participate in approved volunteer service activities or authorized school assistance.
- Employees who serve with a volunteer fire department, rescue squad, or auxiliary unit may be eligible for up to 8 additional hours, for a total of 24 hours of leave per leave year.
As with all leave requests, supervisor approval is required before using School Assistance & Volunteer Services Leave.
Looking for a Volunteer Opportunity?
There are many opportunities for volunteer opportunities in our region. The upcoming World of Work (WOW) Event is a great opportunity to use your School Assistance & Volunteer Services Leave while helping students explore career pathways and connect with employers.
Volunteers may assist with:
- Welcoming students and guests
- Unloading buses and directing traffic
- Distributing cinch sacks
- Assisting business exhibitors
- Passing out lunches
- And more!
Interested in volunteering? Register here:
Register for the World of Work Volunteer Event
Participation in the World of Work event qualifies for School Assistance & Volunteer Services Leave, provided you obtain your supervisor's approval in advance.
Why Do Some Volunteer Opportunities Not Require Leave?
Employees occasionally participate in community events or service projects as part of an official Laurel Ridge Community College-sponsored team or activity. When employees represent the college in an authorized capacity, the activity may be considered part of their work responsibilities, and School Assistance & Volunteer Services Leave may not be required.
Because circumstances can vary, employees should check with Human Resources for guidance if they are unsure whether leave is required.
Questions?
If you have questions about eligibility, qualifying activities, or how to request School Assistance & Volunteer Services Leave, please contact Human Resources at HR@laurelridge.edu. We are happy to help you make the most of this valuable benefit while supporting our students, schools, and communities.