Nonprofit organizations utilizing volunteers face complex legal challenges that can result in significant financial exposure and operational disruption. This two-part analysis examines critical volunteer liability risks that nonprofit leaders must understand and manage effectively. Part 1 focuses on employment classification issues and volunteer safety concerns, covering legal standards that determine whether volunteers may be classified as employees under the Fair Labor Standards Act and discrimination laws, potentially triggering substantial back wage claims and benefit obligations. This section also addresses organizational liability for harm to volunteers, including injury claims, negligent training and placement issues, and strategies for limiting exposure through proper insurance coverage, liability waivers, and safety protocols. Part 2 will examine organizational liability for volunteer misconduct, covering negligent selection and supervision, background screening requirements, harm caused by volunteers to clients and third parties, and essential risk management policies. Together, these articles provide nonprofit leaders with knowledge needed to maintain effective volunteer programs while minimizing legal and financial risks.

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