VolunteerMatters employs a rigorous process to ensure that volunteers must explicitly opt-in to receive text messages. This approach is not only compliant with regulatory standards but also respects the preferences and privacy of the volunteers. Here's how it works and why it's important:

Volunteer Opt-In for Text Messaging:

• In VolunteerMatters, volunteers are not automatically enrolled to receive text messages. Instead, they must actively opt-in. This is done via their "My Profile" preferences page in the VolunteerMatters system.
• The necessity for explicit consent is a key component of many text messaging regulations. By requiring volunteers to opt-in themselves, VolunteerMatters adheres to these regulatory requirements and avoids sending unsolicited messages.

Self-Initiated Mobile Number Validation:

• To further ensure accuracy and compliance, volunteers are required to validate their mobile numbers through a two-step process. This involves receiving a special code via text, which they must then enter into their profile to complete the validation.
• This step enhances security and confirms that the volunteer is indeed willing and able to receive text messages.

Customizable Text Message Preferences:

• Volunteers have complete control over the types of text messages they wish to receive. They manage these preferences through their "My Profile" page, offering a personalized experience.
• This flexibility allows volunteers to receive only the communications they find relevant, respecting their preferences and reducing the likelihood of message fatigue or annoyance.

Easy Opt-Out Mechanism:

• Regulations often mandate an easy method for recipients to opt-out of receiving messages. In VolunteerMatters, volunteers can simply reply "STOP" to any text message they receive, which will immediately remove them from all text communications.
• This ensures that volunteers who no longer wish to receive messages can easily exercise their choice, maintaining respect for their preferences and privacy.

Administrator Restrictions on Text Messaging:

• Administrators can only send messages to volunteers who have registered with the volunteer portal, validated their mobile number, and not opted out of receiving text messages.
• This policy is in place to ensure that communications are only sent to those who have consented to receive them, complying with consent requirements and ensuring that messages are relevant and welcomed.

This opt-in process is crucial for several reasons:

• Regulatory Compliance: Adhering to text messaging regulations protects the organization from legal risks associated with non-compliance.
• Respect for Privacy: It respects the privacy of volunteers by not assuming consent and giving them the power to choose the communications they receive.
• Improved Engagement: Volunteers who opt-in are more likely to be engaged and responsive to the messages they receive, as they have expressed a specific interest in receiving them.

Related Articles:

• Verifying Your Mobile Number
• Managing Assignment Notifications
• Project Organizer Text Notifications