COVID-19 Response

In spite of COVID-19, the families of Central Appalachia still need our assistance, perhaps now more than ever.

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COVID-19 Volunteer Hosting Protocols

THANK YOU for your continued enthusiasm and support of the mission of ASP. Health and safety are our top priorities. Though we cannot eliminate all risks, ASP has enacted guidelines and procedures to reduce the risk of spreading of COVID-19. Protocols will be updated as needed to reflect the most recent CDC and local health officials’ recommendations. In addition to the details on this page, all volunteers will receive instructions prior to and during their service experience. The basics are outlined below.

Last updated 4/20/2023

Volunteer Protocols

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Pre-Screening and Participation Prep

  • Volunteers are NO LONGER required to submit a self screening form or test for COVID-19 before participating aiwith ASP.
  • However:
    • Volunteers, staff, and homeowners who are sick, exhibiting symptoms, currently diagnosed with COVID19, or have not fully recovered from diagnosis cannot participate with ASP and should remain isolated from others. (If recovering from COVID-19, please follow the
      procedures for ending isolation on the next page before and while participating with ASP)
  • The ASP environment presents a high risk for the spread of infectious disease. Please plan accordingly and follow the recommendations of your healthcare provider for vaccination and prevention measures, especially if you are at high risk for infection.
  • All ASP staff will follow the same procedures as volunteers.
  • Homeowners are asked to continually self-screen for COVID-19 symptoms. If any resident reports symptoms or diagnosis, ASP will temporarily suspend work on the home until all residents are fully recovered and the worksite is safe for visitors.

Behavior Guidelines to Prevent Disease Spread

  • All volunteers, staff, and homeowners should communicate IMMEDIATELY if they are experiencing any symptoms.
  • Monitor and enforce healthy hygiene habits: Wash hands frequently and properly, Use alcohol-based hand sanitizer often, shower daily, etc.
  • If needed, cough or sneeze into a tissue or the sleeve of your arm.
  • Do not share food, utensils, drinks, etc.
  • Minimize touching your face or other people.
  • While in the community, maintain social distancing and mask guidelines observed by the county.
  • Remember, ASP volunteers are often guests in a community- please show extra sensitivity to limit the likelihood and perception of spreading illness.
  • Volunteer delegated chores are important for maintaining a clean and safe environment for all. Please ensure that chores are completed diligently every day.
  • Volunteers should plan to equip their first-aid kits with thermometers, antibacterial wipes, hand sanitizer and face masks in case they are needed.

Masking

  • Masks are OPTIONAL for all participants unless:
    • A homeowner requests masks while working in their home.
    • An individual is recovering from COVID-19 diagnosis and is still within the 10-day recovery window.
  • Volunteers should be prepared to provide their own CDC approved cloth or disposable masks.
  • For the protection of the families we serve, other volunteers, and our staff, volunteers who are unable or unwilling to follow masking protocols when indicated (for any reason) MUST delay their participation with ASP until these measures are no longer in place.

Sleeping & Showering

  • Please be aware that the sleeping rooms at ASP are communal and there may be any number of individuals in a shared space. Volunteers should arrange beds to allow
    the most amount of space (and at least 6’) between the faces of sleeping individuals.
  • Volunteers are encouraged to bring box-fans to assist with air circulation in sleeping rooms. Fans should be arranged to blow air out a door or window if possible.
  • Sleep and rest are important for health- please take time for rest and respect “lights out” time for others.

Personal Space

  • Remain aware that individual comfort levels may vary regarding personal boundaries. Please be respectful and limit close contact with others.
  • ALWAYS obtain permission for physical touch or hugging.

Additional Questions?

Our team is here to provide the details you need to feel comfortable volunteering with ASP during COVID-19.

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Volunteer with ASP

Lead your group on a safe, healthy, impactful mission trip in 2020. Get started today!

ASP’s Official COVID-19 Statements

Read past communications from ASP regarding COVID-19.

Volunteer Resources

Find other resources to help you prepare for your upcoming ASP trip.

Volunteer with ASP

Lead your group on a safe, healthy, impactful mission trip in 2020. Get started today!

Learn More

ASP's Official COVID-19 Statements

Read past communications from ASP regarding COVID-19.

Learn More

Volunteer Resources

Find other resources to help you prepare for your upcoming ASP trip.

Learn More