50.0 Purpose
A clean volunteer house promotes health, comfort, and a positive group environment. Maintaining order and cleanliness demonstrates respect for shared spaces and for the children and staff who visit.
Cleanliness also models the principle that service begins at home—volunteers who care for their surroundings are better prepared to care for others.
50.1 Director responsibilities
Lead by example. Directors are expected to consistently maintain their own areas, keep shared spaces tidy, and demonstrate daily habits of organization and care.
Set up and manage a cleaning system. Each group may use the method that works best for them—daily chore rotations, weekly assignments, or shared
responsibilities. The structure is flexible, but the outcome must be a clean, well-maintained house.
Communicate expectations. Directors should review cleaning standards during orientation and post the schedule in a visible location.
50.2 Volunteer responsibilities
Follow the posted cleaning schedule and complete assigned chores with care.
Keep bedrooms and personal areas organized and sanitary.
Participate in deep cleaning as requested and maintain respect for shared living areas. Shared spaces should always be kept clean and in good order.
50.3 Clean checks
Frequency: Directors conduct clean checks once per week in all volunteer bedrooms.
Notification: Volunteers must receive at least one day’s notice so they have time to tidy their rooms.
Purpose: Clean checks help ensure a healthy environment and prevent the buildup of clutter or hygiene issues—not to criticize, but to maintain comfort and safety for all residents.
50.4 Deep cleaning and semester turnover
During semester breaks, Directors oversee a full deep clean of the volunteer house.
This includes sorting out unneeded items, organizing supplies, sanitizing all areas, and restocking as needed.
Any maintenance issues discovered during cleaning should be recorded and reported to the Operations Coordinator for follow-up or repair approval.
50.5 Standards of example
Directors should always:
-Clean up immediately after themselves.
-Encourage teamwork and accountability in keeping the house organized.
-Model respectful use of shared spaces to set the tone for the volunteers.