(“I” or “me”) in favor of INKY BLUE SEA COMPANION ANIMAL RESCUE, a not-for-profit corporation organized and existing under the laws of the State of New York, and its directors, officers, employees, volunteers, and agents (collectively, the “Organization”). I desire to volunteer for the Organization and engage in activities related to being its volunteer (the “Activities”). I understand that the Activities may include, but are not limited to dog and cat Transport, Feeding, Adoptions, Adoption Events, Fostering, Socializing, Maintenance, Heath and Wellness, etc.) These activities will take place inside PETCO and PETSMART stores and other venues or locations where we conduct animal adoptions and animal rescue operations. This includes foster homes provided by volunteers. I also understand that as a volunteer I will receive no compensation or remuneration for my services and will not be eligible for any employee benefits. I acknowledge that I am not an employee. In exchange for being allowed to participate in the Activities as a volunteer and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which I acknowledge, I hereby freely, voluntarily, and without duress execute this Release and agree to the following terms:

1. Compliance with Policies. I acknowledge and agree that I have received and read the Organization’s Volunteer Code of Conduct/”VOLUNTEER CODE OF ETHICS AND CONDUCT,” on page 4 of this volunteer waiver.

2. I agree to comply with the Volunteer Code of Conduct and all other applicable policies and procedures, training, and safety rules of the Organization, and will follow the Organization’s instructions in carrying out the Activities.

3. Assumption of Risk. I am aware and understand that the Activities may be inherently dangerous and may expose me to a variety of foreseen and unforeseen hazards and risks. I acknowledge that I am voluntarily participating in the Activities and have considered those risks. I hereby expressly and specifically assume such risks, including any and all risk of injury, harm, or loss that I may incur as a result of my participation in the Activities.

4. Medical Treatment. I hereby give consent and authority to the Organization to obtain medical treatment on my behalf if I am injured or require medical attention during my participation in the Activities. I understand and agree that I am solely responsible for all costs related to such medical treatment, medical transportation, and/or evacuation. I hereby release, forever discharge, and hold harmless the Organization from any claim whatsoever in connection with such treatment or other medical services.

5. Release and Waiver. I hereby fully and forever release and discharge the Organization from, and expressly waive, any and all liability, claims, and demands of whatever kind or nature, either in law or in equity, that may arise from my participation in the Activities. I agree not to make or bring any such claim or demand against the Organization, and fully and forever release and discharge the Organization from liability under such claims or demands. I UNDERSTAND THAT THIS RELEASE DISCHARGES THE ORGANIZATION FROM ANY LIABILITY OR CLAIM THAT I MAY HAVE AGAINST THE ORGANIZATION WITH RESPECT TO ANY BODILY INJURY, PERSONAL INJURY, ILLNESS, DEATH, PROPERTY DAMAGE, OR PROPERTY LOSS THAT MAY RESULT FROM THE ACTIVITIES, WHETHER CAUSED BY THE NEGLIGENCE OF THE ORGANIZATION OR OTHERWISE.

6. Insurance. I UNDERSTAND THAT, EXCEPT AS AGREED TO BY THE ORGANIZATION IN WRITING, THE ORGANIZATION DOES NOT ASSUME ANY RESPONSIBILITY FOR OR OBLIGATION TO PROVIDE FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE OR OTHER ASSISTANCE, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO MEDICAL, HEALTH, OR DISABILITY INSURANCE OF ANY NATURE IN THE EVENT OF MY INJURY, ILLNESS, OR DEATH, OR DAMAGE TO OR LOSS OF MY PROPERTY. I also understand that the Organization does not provide workers’ compensation insurance for volunteers. I expressly waive any claim for compensation or liability on the part of the Organization in the event of any injury or medical expense.

7. Indemnification. I hereby agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless the Organization from any and all liability, losses, damages, judgments, or expenses, including attorneys’ fees, that it may incur or sustain as a result of my negligence, recklessness, or willful misconduct in connection with my participation in the Activities, arising out of any third-party claim.]

8. Confidentiality. I understand that during my participation in the Activities I may receive or become aware of confidential or non-public information relating to the Organization, including but not limited to adopter, foster, and donor information; veterinary or behavioral information regarding animals; and the Organization’s internal policies, procedures, and operations. I agree not to disclose such information to any third party without the prior written consent of the Organization. This obligation applies during my participation in the Activities and for a period of five (5) years following the end of my volunteer relationship. This obligation does not apply to information that becomes publicly available through no fault of my own, that was lawfully known to me before volunteering, or that I am required to disclose by law, court order, or governmental authority.

9. Photographic Release. I understand and agree that during the Activities, I may be photographed and/or videotaped by the Organization for internal and/or promotional use. I hereby grant and convey to the Organization all right, title, and interest, including but not limited to, any royalties, proceeds, or other benefits, in any and all such photographs or recordings, and consent to the Organization’s use of my name, image, likeness, and voice in perpetuity, in any medium or format, for any publicity without further compensation or permission.

10. Miscellaneous. I hereby agree that this Release represents the full understanding between the Organization and me and supersedes all other prior agreements, understandings, representations, and warranties, both written and oral, between us, with respect to the subject matter hereof. If any term or provision of this Release shall be held to be invalid by any court of competent jurisdiction, that term or provision shall be deemed modified so as to be valid and enforceable to the full extent permitted. The invalidity of any such term or provision shall not otherwise affect the validity or enforceability of the remaining terms and provisions. This Release is binding on and inures to the benefit of the Organization and me and our respective heirs, executors, administrators, legal representatives, successors, and permitted assigns. Section headings are for convenience of reference only and shall not define, modify, expand, or limit any of the terms of this Release.

11. Governing Law. I hereby agree that this Release is intended to be as broad and inclusive as permitted, and that this Release shall be governed by and interpreted in accordance with the laws of the State of New York, without reference to any choice of law doctrine.

*12. Vaccination. We strongly encourage all volunteers to obtain a tetanus vaccination prior to beginning volunteer work. Tetanus shots are widely available at most health clinics and pharmacies. This precaution helps protect you in the event of a scratch or bite from a dog or cat while volunteering.

*13. IDENTIFICATION. ALL VOLUNTEERS MUST INCLUDE A PHOTOCOPY OF A VALID STATE ID WITH THEIR FULL LEGAL NAME.

*14. MINOR VOLUNTEERS. YOU MUST BE 18 YEARS OR OLDER TO VOLUNTEER WITH OUR ORGANIZATION. BY SIGNING BELOW, I ACKNOWLEDGE THAT I HAVE READ AND UNDERSTOOD ALL OF THE TERMS OF THIS 3 PAGE RELEASE AND THAT I AM VOLUNTARILY GIVING UP SUBSTANTIAL LEGAL RIGHTS, INCLUDING THE RIGHT TO SUE THE ORGANIZATION.

Volunteer Code of Conduct and Ethics

Animal Rescue Volunteer Agreement

Purpose

This Code of Conduct establishes the standards expected of all volunteers supporting our animal rescue mission. Our work depends on compassion, accountability, professionalism, and trust. Volunteers represent the organization and help protect the animals in our care while maintaining positive relationships with adopters, partners, and the public.

Animal Welfare First

The health, safety, and well-being of animals must always be the highest priority. Volunteers must treat every animal with patience, kindness, and respect while following all established care, handling, and transportation protocols. Any health, behavioral, or safety concerns must be reported immediately.

Professionalism and Respect

Volunteers must treat fellow volunteers, adopters, veterinary partners, store partners, and the public with courtesy and professionalism. Harassment, discrimination, intimidation, or hostile behavior will not be tolerated.

Integrity and Transparency

Volunteers must communicate honestly regarding animal health, behavior, and adoption status. Misrepresentation or withholding important information undermines trust and the success of adoptions.

Responsible Communication

Volunteers represent the organization when discussing rescue activities in person, by email, or on social media. Statements that misrepresent the organization or create confusion should be avoided. Media inquiries should be referred to leadership.

Financial Integrity

Donations, supplies, and rescue funds must be handled with honesty and proper documentation. Volunteers may not solicit funds, collect adoption fees, or spend rescue funds without authorization.

Confidentiality

Private information regarding adopters, donors, volunteers, or operational matters must remain confidential and should not be shared outside the organization.

Safety and Responsibility

Volunteers must follow safety guidelines when interacting with animals or participating in adoption events and partner locations such as PETCO or PETSMART adoption centers. If uncertain about a situation, volunteers should contact an INKY BLUE manager.

Training Requirement

All volunteers must attend an initial training session before participating in animal care or adoption events. Additional training may be required to maintain consistent standards.

Drug and Alcohol Policy

A strict no drug and alcohol policy is enforced. Volunteers may not participate in activities while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. The use or possession of illegal substances during volunteer activities is prohibited.

Reporting Concerns

Volunteers are encouraged to report concerns related to animal welfare, volunteer conduct, safety issues, or organizational practices.

Contact: William Cassius Divney

Email: CassiusDivney@gmail.com

Volunteer Recognition

Volunteers who demonstrate reliability, professionalism, and dedication may request a professional reference for employment, academic, or future opportunities.

Volunteer Acknowledgment

By signing below, I acknowledge that I have read, understand, and agree to follow the Volunteer Code of Conduct and Ethics. I understand these standards exist to protect the animals in our care and maintain the integrity of the organization.