33.04.01.I1 Acceptable Use of Agency Resources for Volunteer and Non-profit Activities

1.1 The Texas A&M Transportation Institute encourages its staff to contribute their time and resources to non-profit and volunteer activities in the community. However, when such activities may involve more than incidental use of agency resources, or be conducted during the workday, the employee should secure formal approval of the activity from the Director, Deputy Director or the Executive Associate Director. It is expected that TTI employees will use good judgment in determining when their volunteer activities meet the standard for requiring prior approval. Employees may seek informal guidance on particular situations from their supervisor, the Director, Deputy Director or Executive Associate Director. Employees should seek advice or approval if they believe that the use of agency/System resources (use of meeting rooms–even at lunch or after work hours, for example; time spent during the workday) may be viewed as more than incidental, and might cause concern among other employees. Employees accepting major volunteer positions such as chairing a board or an event should advise their supervisor to ensure that he/she is aware of the time and effort the activity will require. Involvement in activities such as parent-teacher organizations, religious organizations, adult or childrens’ athletic leagues, etc. would not require such approval.