1. Rules of Conduct: The success of our Virtual Companion program depends on our ability to create a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for both virtual companions and on-ground volunteers in our program. To facilitate a safe environment, and promote open communication between counselors and participants, we require that counselors and participants engage respectfully and refrain from any form of harassment, hate speech, or disruptive behavior. Participants are required to maintain a professional demeanor during counseling sessions and at all times wear appropriate attire and use respectful and appropriate language with and toward counselors. Participants must also demonstrate respect for diverse cultural backgrounds during counseling sessions and counselors must respect the participant’s cultural practices. We have a zero-tolerance policy for violations, which may or will result in immediate removal from the Street Care Virtual Companion Program and possible future legal action.
2. Handling of Non-Compliance: Street Care Virtual Companion reserves the right to moderate the discussion or terminate the meeting/call in scenarios such as breach of respectful conduct.
3. Privacy Policy: We do not disclose personal information without prior consent, per our commitment to privacy protection.
4. Security Policy: Participants are prohibited from sharing access links or passwords with unauthorized third parties.
5. Recording and Use of Content: We may record meetings and phone calls for documentation purposes after obtaining prior consent. By participating, you consent to the use of your discussion notes, image, and voice for internal Bright Mind meeting-related purposes only. These materials will not be distributed to, or discussed with, any third party outside of Bright Mind.
6. No Endorsement Policy: We do not promote, endorse, or provide therapies, medications, or commercial services.
7. Disclaimer of Outcomes: We do not guarantee the success of outcomes for participating in Street Care Virtual Companion activities such as meetings/discussions or calls.
8. Emergency Protocols: Virtual Companion is a team of virtual volunteers offering advice and support but is not liable for any emergencies, including medical incidents or physical confrontations. In case of such situations, on-ground participants are advised to contact emergency services or law enforcement for immediate assistance. Virtual Companion’s role is limited to providing virtual guidance and does not include direct intervention or responsibility for on-ground incidents.
9. Limitations of Street Care Virtual Companion: Virtual Companions provide practical advice but do not replace professional healthcare or specialized training.
10. Voluntary Participation: All engagement in Street Care Virtual Companion activities such as meetings/discussions or calls is voluntary, and participants should not feel pressured to participate beyond their comfort level.
11. Session Time and Scheduling policy: All sessions and calls shall adhere to predetermined schedules, commencing and concluding as specified. Sessions are strictly scheduled within designated times, such as 9:00 AM EST to Dusk daily, with no engagements outside these hours. .
12. Age Requirement: Participants must be of legal age 18 years or older, to ensure they consent to participate legally.If you are a minor (age 14-18), you must ask your guardian to fill out the form and send it to us at volunteer@streetcare.us
13. No Financial Transactions: We serve charge-free sessions and participants are prohibited from soliciting or engaging in any financial transactions as part of their interaction.
14. Mutual Right to Pause or End Participation: Participants are allowed to pause or end the ongoing sessions at any time and for any reason. Participants can choose to disengage or withdraw from the Street Care Virtual Companion at any point without any obligation to explain their reasons.
15. Informed Consent: We ensure that all participants sign the Google form and agree to an informed consent form that outlines the nature of the Street Care Virtual Companion Program.
16. Notification of Absence & Rescheduling Policy: We request participants to notify their absence before a scheduled session. Rescheduling requests are subject to availability. Rescheduling requests must be submitted at least 24 hours before the scheduled time and are subject to availability.
17. Technology Failures: We request participants to be patient in case of a technological failure and take action to reconnect or reschedule as needed.
18. Feedback and Improvement: We encourage participants to provide feedback about the sessions to improve the support experience.
19. Language Proficiency: Participants must have a sufficient level of proficiency in the language used during the sessions to ensure effective communication and mutual understanding.
20. Cultural Competence: We do not discriminate against any individual based on race, color, religion, caste, creed, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, disability, personal beliefs, or cultural practices.
21. Mission and Purpose: Virtual Companion, aims to empower volunteers through virtual guidance, emphasizing safety, respect, and effective outreach strategies. The Virtual Companion serves solely as a virtual ally, offering suggestions and practical advice to enhance volunteers’ confidence and preparedness without assuming on-ground responsibilities.
22. Participation Guidelines: Participation in outreach is voluntary and requires adherence to guidelines, including provided materials, videos, and local regulations.
23. Modification of Terms: Street Care-Virtual Companion reserves the right to update these terms to align with changes in programs, community needs, or regulations.
24. Privacy and Confidentiality: Do not share or collect personal information without explicit consent. Avoid taking photos or videos of individuals unless permitted.
25. Avoiding Physical Contact: Prioritize verbal communication over physical gestures like handshakes unless initiated by the individual.