Intentions and protocol

Intentions

We commit to be positive and committed to resolution, fun and ease, so that negativity doesn’t impact the synergy of our group
We will all have a safe, fun, life changing experience that we will cherish for the rest of our lives, knowing and truly believing that you will have the experience you desire
We will stay open-minded at all times
Recognize that just because something works in our country doesn’t make it the best option for another
Remember that what’s “common sense” to you might not be common sense to someone else
Remember that we are all “one people”, and act accordingly
We will blend our group with those we interact with
Become part of the flow of energy – don’t just observe life, get involved, participate!
Constantly ask yourself, “Am I participating or spectating?”
Show gratitude and humility, always

Communicate, communicate, communicate
If you don’t feel well, you aren’t comfortable, you are not getting the experience you would like to have, or you don’t understand something, please communicate.
Don’t assume anything. Communicate what you need: we can’t know your needs unless you communicate them.

While it’s not unusual to have some episodes of diarrhea while traveling, it’s always better to be safe than sorry with regard to your health. If in doubt, ask your trip leader.
Please inform your trip leader of any and all symptoms immediately so that we can avoid serious problems.
Please do all you can to not pass your illness to others.
It is never inappropriate to ask where the nearest restroom is.
Avoid discussing your symptoms too much with the rest of the group (apart from the team leader/organizer)

You are a reflection of Hug It Forward, and your home country.
Anyone abusing alcohol will not be allowed to continue volunteering with the group and will be escorted back to the hotel when circumstances allow.

While a few alcoholic beverages may not result in negative consequences, you should not assume that drinking in the streets or in public locations is tolerated.
Additionally, the likelihood that you may be hassled or taken advantage of increases while under the influence.
As a rule of thumb, don’t do anything on foreign soil that you wouldn’t feel comfortable doing at home!

If a volunteer is even suspected of using drugs they will be sent home immediately, no questions.
If you are caught in possession of even “small” amounts of drugs, or using drugs, or even in the company of people using drugs, there may be serious mandatory jail sentences in extremely unpleasant and dangerous conditions. Your legal rights will be VERY different than those within your home country. In many countries you basically have no rights.

We are guests in their country and just because something might work or be “the best way” in your country DOES NOT mean it will in theirs.
Make it a priority to protect their culture and the way they do things. Who are we to tell or imply how something “should” be done?
Please always remember to be considerate and open-minded. Bigotry will not be tolerated, even in joking.
Be aware that men and women in other countries are most likely not aware of your home county’s cultural norms. If you find something offensive remember that the only person you can control in the situation is yourself.

Team morale will make or break your trip. Any group environment will include many different personalities and we encourage you to remind yourself of your focus: We are there for the people we are serving.
Disagreements or people not pulling their weight will jeopardize the team morale and consequently the project we are there to help with.
Always be kind, considerate, and open with the communication of your frustrations or confusion. This will help us work through any issue and more quickly find common ground.
Be the solution, not the problem. Ask yourself “how can I help out?” at every moment you can.