A Training manual for the orientation of autism society Philippines special events volunteers

• Main Authors: Chichioco, Anna, De Guzman, Katrina, Mendiola, Stephanie
• Format: text
• Language: English
• Published: Animo Repository 2012
• Online Access: https://animorepository.dlsu.edu.ph/etd_bachelors/10915
• Institution: De La Salle University

This training Manual for the Orientation of Special Event Volunteers was created for the Autism Society Philippines (ASP). ASP is a national, non-stock, non-profit organization dedicated to the well-being of persons with autism spectrum disorder. Based on a communication audit on the organization, it was found that there is a lack of standard messages relayed to the volunteers leading to the uncertainty in their roles and responsibilities. The Executive Director emphasized that the organization envisions a loyal and committed pool of volunteers properly utilized as a human resources in the execution of their events. ASP also aspires to set mutual expectations to help achieve mutual growth and long-term relationships. This may maximize the potential of their volunteers and the organization, as both will be gaining knowledge, experience and input for development. The study was conducted to assess the best approach to provide relevant information and standard messages to special event volunteers. Participant observations, a focus group discussion and in-depth interviews were conducted to further investigate. The data collected from special event volunteers and the organizations trustees, who serve as the event organizers validated the need for a reference tool to provide a standard orientation process and key messages. Most of the input collected from trustees entailed that they need committed and efficient volunteers. On the other hand, volunteers input focused on the desire for more information on tasks and responsibilities, as they would like to improve and contribute more to the organization. The quality of the event output and their work attitude are affected by the amount of information and detailed shared to them. A reference tool, the Training Manual for orientation sessions, addressed these concerns serving as a guide for the facilitator during the orientation process. Media Richness theory was used as the basis in developing the training manual as it discusses how the choice of media can affect the information being communicated. It focuses on the best approach to relay messages likewise reducing equivocality and uncertainty.