Volunteer & Mutual Aid Coordination
Help Request Template (v1)

Purpose

This template is used to request help, assistance, or skills from volunteers or community members in a clear, respectful, and non-coercive way.

Using this template does not create any obligation for others to respond.

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Help Request Information

1. Brief Description of the Need
Describe what help is being requested in plain language.

Example:
“Looking for help moving donated furniture into storage.”

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2. Type of Help Requested
(Check all that apply or describe)

- Physical assistance
- Skill-based help
- Transportation
- Planning or organization
- Other (describe)

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3. Time Frame

- When is the help needed?
- Is this a one-time request or ongoing?
- Is there a clear end point?

Example:
“One afternoon sometime this week. Should take about two hours.”

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4. Location (If Applicable)

- General location (no private addresses required)
- Indoor or outdoor
- Accessibility considerations

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5. Skill Level or Experience Needed

- None
- Basic familiarity
- Specific skills or certifications (describe)

If no special skills are required, state that clearly.

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6. Safety Notes

- Any known risks
- Required safety equipment
- Tasks participants should not attempt

If there are safety concerns, list them honestly.

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7. Contact Method

- Preferred contact method
- Availability window
- Who will respond to inquiries

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8. Participation Statement (Required)

Include this statement verbatim:

“Participation is completely voluntary. There is no obligation to respond, and no expectation of continued involvement.”

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9. Expiration or Closure

- Date the request expires
- How participants will know the request is no longer active

Example:
“This request will close once enough help is found or after Friday.”

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Important Notes

- Do not pressure individuals to participate
- Do not track participation for performance or comparison
- Do not imply obligation, guilt, or expectation

If participation drops to zero, that outcome is acceptable.

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Why This Template Exists

Clear requests reduce confusion, resentment, and burnout.

This template exists to help communities ask for help responsibly.
