Volunteer and Internship Policy

Supansha® Network of SDF

Effective Date: 01 September 2025

1. Introduction

Registered as a Section 8 non-profit company under the Indian Companies Act, 2013, Supansha Development Foundation (SDF) is committed to fostering dignity, opportunity, and sustainable well-being for all. Our work is anchored in the CREATE values — Choices, Respect, Empathy, Accountability, Transformation, and Efficacy — and guided by four strategic pillars, collectively termed HERB: Healthcare & Well-being, Education & Livelihoods, Research & Data Science, and Biodiversity & Eco-care. Volunteers and interns are integral to achieving our mission, bringing skills, enthusiasm, and fresh perspectives that strengthen our programs and the SUPANSHA® Network.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all volunteers and interns across Head Office (HO), State Office (SO), Regional Office (RO), and District Office (DO). Internships are project-based or arranged through institutional tie-ups, while volunteers can be individuals, businesses, NGOs, or philanthropists. All contributions are valued and recognized as essential to SDF's mission of the SUPANSHA® Network.

3. Engagement Principles

  • Equal Opportunity & Diversity: SDF ensures non-discrimination based on gender, caste, religion, age, disability, or socio-economic background.
  • Recognition: Every contribution, small or large, is acknowledged and celebrated as part of the organization’s collective impact.
  • Respect & Inclusion: All volunteers and interns are treated equitably, with their skills and dedication valued.

4. Application & Onboarding

  • Interested candidates can apply via the SDF website Join Us page or through institutional tie-ups for internships.
  • Orientation and training are provided to familiarize volunteers and interns with SDF’s mission, projects, and operational guidelines.
  • Assignments are made based on skills, project requirements, and available opportunities.

5. SUPANSHA® Network Integration

All volunteers are part of the SUPANSHA® Network (Social Union for Progressive Advancement and Navigation towards Sustainable Holistic Actions Network) and grouped as:

  • Development Doers: Skill-powered individuals
  • Development Dealers: Businesses and service providers
  • Development Designers: NGOs and SHGs
  • Development Donors: CSR corporates, government agencies, angel investors, and other funding agencies

This network fosters collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and ethical, action-oriented social development across Healthcare & Well-being, Education & Livelihoods, Research & Data Science, and Biodiversity & Eco-care.

6. Roles & Responsibilities

  • Volunteers and interns are expected to actively contribute to assigned projects and programs.
  • All participants report to designated project managers or mentors, ensuring supervision, guidance, and skill development.
  • Interns may also join the SUPANSHA® Network as Development Doers during or after their internship.

7. Duration & Attendance

  • Internships are time-bound and project-specific; duration is communicated at onboarding.
  • Volunteer engagement is renewable annually on 1 January, with project-specific assignments and flexible hours based on commitment and availability.
  • Volunteers do not receive salaries, but may receive incentives or travel reimbursement as per SDF HR Policy.

8. Code of Conduct

  • All volunteers and interns must maintain professionalism, ethics, and confidentiality in all work.
  • Compliance with statutory guidelines including PoSH, POCSO, and workplace safety is mandatory.

9. Health & Safety

  • Volunteers and interns are encouraged to maintain vaccinations, including COVID-19.
  • Workplace safety guidelines, emergency protocols, and health support services are provided.

10. Recognition & Feedback

  • SDF provides certificates, letters of appreciation, and formal acknowledgment of contributions.
  • Regular performance feedback and mentorship are offered to enhance learning and development.

11. Grievance Mechanism

  • Volunteers and interns can report complaints regarding harassment, unethical behavior, or safety concerns.
  • Complaints are submitted through Complaint Form and are handled confidentially without retaliation.

12. Review & Compliance

  • This policy is reviewed annually and updated by the HR & Admin team.
  • Volunteers and interns are expected to comply with all SDF policies and procedures.

13. Conclusion & Contact

This Volunteer & Internship Policy underscores SDF’s commitment to fostering a supportive, ethical, and inclusive environment. Volunteers and interns are recognized for their contributions and provided guidance to ensure impactful engagement.

Supansha® Development Foundation (SDF)
Registered Office: 13/50, Sethinagar, Gupteshwar Road, Jabalpur – 482008, Madhya Pradesh, India
Email: supansha@supansha.org
Website: www.supansha.org