The safety of our volunteers, those they serve and those they serve alongside is of paramount importance.  Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic we have responded by following the guidance of the CDC, State and Local Health Departments.  As this guidance has changed, we have also changed our procedures and protocols while keeping in mind the needs of the community and the FrancisCorps experience.  Along with the standard vaccinations, FrancisCorps volunteers must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and remain up to date in accordance with CDC guidance. Volunteers and staff also observe local guidance on masking and social distancing.  Serving others, however, does bring with it the chance of exposure.  Blessed to be a small program, we are able to address close contact situations and positive COVID-19 tests on an individual basis, making sure the volunteer community knows what to do in terms of isolation and/or quarantine and is supported during the experience.  Our key to success, and an essential part of the FrancisCorps experience in general, is clear, prompt, and open communication between staff and the volunteer community.  COVID-19 has become a part of the world in which we live and as the situation continues to change and evolve, so will our response here at FrancisCorps.