Before participating in a volunteer shift to gather signatures, please review the following Do’s and Don’ts of volunteering:

✅ DO’s 

DO Identify Yourself Clearly: Say your full name and that you are a volunteer collecting signatures for The Reproductive Freedom & Privacy Act.

DO Use the Correct Petition Form: Always use the exact version of the petition form provided—do not photocopy or alter it.

DO Provide Accurate Information: Answer questions factually and neutrally. It’s okay if you don’t know. Refer uncertain questions to the campaign’s FAQ or a campaign staff member.

DO Be Respectful and Courteous: Represent the campaign positively. Your behavior reflects on the entire organization.

DO Use Good Judgment About Weather and Terrain: Avoid canvassing in dangerous weather conditions (snow, ice, extreme heat) or on hazardous terrain (steep driveways, unpaved paths).

DO Wear Comfortable, Safe Footwear: Non-slip, close-toed shoes are usually best for canvassing.

DO Stay on Sidewalks and Driveways: Avoid crossing someone’s lawn or entering their house.

DO Be Cautious of Animals: Do not approach homes with aggressive dogs or animals. If a gate says “Beware of Dog,” skip that house.

DO Carry a Cell Phone: Volunteers should have a phone with them and provide an emergency contact to the campaign.

DO Work in Pairs When Possible: Especially in rural or less trafficked areas, volunteers should work with a buddy for safety and accountability.

DO Take Breaks and Stay Hydrated: Avoid heat exhaustion or fatigue and bring along water.

DO Notify the Campaign of Any Injury or Incident Immediately: Volunteers must report any slip, fall, confrontation, or accident as soon as possible—even if minor.

DO Follow Local Laws: Only canvass during daylight hours unless authorized otherwise, and comply with all local ordinances to avoid trespass or nuisance complaints.

DO Report Issues Immediately: If someone threatens you, challenges the legality of your activities, or a conflict arises, notify your volunteer organizer or local team leader right away.

❌ DON’Ts

Don’t Falsify or Misrepresent Anything: Never make false statements about the petition or its consequences.

Don’t Coerce, Mislead, or Pressure: Never pressure someone into signing or mislead them about what they’re signing.

Don’t Sign for Someone Else: It is illegal to forge a signature or sign on someone’s behalf, even with permission.

Don’t Alter Petition Forms: Never change, add to, or remove anything from a petition form once it has been signed.

Don’t Use Aggressive or Partisan Language: Keep tone and content neutral, factual, and civil—don’t argue or politicize unnecessarily.

Don’t Offer Incentives to Sign: Never give or promise anything of value in exchange for a signature.

Don’t Engage in Political Speech if You’re Unsure: Avoid discussing other candidates, campaigns, or unrelated issues.

Don’t Drive Others on Behalf of the Organization: Volunteers should not transport other volunteers or equipment for the campaign unless specifically authorized and insured.

Don’t leave campaign materials in places where they could become trip hazards such as doorsteps.

Don’t Approach Visibly Intoxicated or Hostile Individuals: Skip any residence where a confrontation seems likely or someone appears impaired or threatening.

Don’t Canvass While Impaired: Volunteers must not engage in canvassing while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medications that impair judgment.

Don’t Bring Pets Along While Canvassing: This creates unnecessary safety and liability risks.

Don’t Engage in Altercations: Even in the face of harassment or provocation, volunteers must walk away and report the incident.

Don’t Continue If You’re Ill or Injured: Volunteers should not canvass if they are not physically able to do so safely—encourage self-monitoring and discretion.

Don’t Solicit Funds: Don’t ask for or accept donations at the door. Instead, refer them to the website.

Don’t volunteer if you’re feeling unwell or if you’re concerned about potentially hazardous weather conditions.