Double-Duty Dilemma: Rules for Staff Who Volunteer
Churches and nonprofit organizations rely on both staff and volunteers to achieve their mission, but it’s important to understand the rules that separate these roles. Nonprofits operate under strict guidelines — especially when it comes to employment and volunteer work — in order to stay compliant with labor laws and ethical standards.
Question: Can a staff member volunteer for the organization he or she works for?
Answer: It depends on the nature of their volunteer work.
Staff members are paid employees with specific job duties outlined in their employment contract or position description. On the other hand, volunteers are not compensated for their time and offer their services freely to support the nonprofit’s goals. While it might seem logical for a passionate staff member to volunteer in their own department outside regular hours, labor laws — particularly the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) — impose restrictions.
The FLSA prohibits employees from volunteering in roles that are similar to their paid work. Why? Because allowing employees to "volunteer" in their own job areas could open the door to exploitation. For example, an employee hired to manage fundraising events cannot “volunteer” to work on similar events after hours. This ensures they’re paid fairly for their time and that nonprofits don’t take advantage of their employees’ dedication.
However, staff can volunteer in unrelated areas. For instance, a nonprofit’s grant writer could volunteer to serve food at a fundraising event, as this is entirely separate from their paid role. This distinction protects both the employee and the organization, ensuring no lines are blurred between paid and unpaid work.
Following these regulations is crucial for nonprofits. Not only do they avoid legal consequences, but they also foster a respectful and ethical work culture. It also ensures that employees feel valued for their professional contributions and their volunteer efforts remain truly voluntary. By understanding and respecting these boundaries, churches and nonprofits can create an environment where both staff and volunteers thrive in their roles without conflicts. Everyone benefits when roles are clearly defined, fair, and transparent!
Talk with your Auxilio Partner Strategist about ways to ensure you are compliant with how your paid staff serve your organization in a volunteer capacity. If you’re not yet an Auxilio client partner, contact us to learn how we can serve your church or faith-based nonprofit and reduce your administrative burden to free you up for ministry.