ENOTA POLICIES
As we discover what best serves the facility, times, dates and policies are subject to change. These policies are here to serve all of us. Please work with us to have it be a pleasant, healthy, safe environment for all of us.
Animal Policy
One SMALL animal is permitted per RV or tent site. They are not allowed in shared accommodations. Please advise
us of the size, type and weight. No
new animals after arrival at Enota. We are an animal refuge; therefore it is
essential that your pet not bother the wild life. You must be highly responsible for your pet.
It is a requirement and in their best interest to be responsible pet
owners by keeping your pets on a leash, picking up after them and keeping them
from bothering others by their barking.
There are two small dogs, Spirit and Smeagol, that run freely throughout the property for the guests to enjoy. These were rescue animals.
Appearance
We work with the general public. It is important that we are sensitive to the needs of our guests and that we appear professional. Appearing professional means - no torn clothes, no short-shorts, not wearing the same dirty clothes every day, no revealing clothing. Neat and clean with good hygiene and grooming is required. Uniforms are worn at Enota. You are expected to pay for your own uniform. See more on appearance under the "Tattoos ..." section.
Bathrooms
Public facilities are judged heavily on the cleanliness of the bathrooms. As you use the public bathrooms, please leave them better than you found them. If any supplies need to be replenished -- please do so; if trash needs to be emptied -- empty it; pick up paper on the floor. It is up to everyone to keep them clean. Help us serve the public -- this really matters. We have brand new wonderful bathrooms - let's keep them sparkling.
Birthday Celebration
Bicycles
Bicycles are a wonderful thing to have on the property - you might want to bring your bicycle with you. It is a great form of exercise.
Please bear with us as we strive for excellence. Change is inevitable. We are a work-in-progress and everything is subject to change – especially if it isn’t working. Please do not change anything without checking first - there are systems already in place and we can not accommodate every personal preference. If you have suggestions please let us know.
Common Needs of Group
We are a business and must be able to have the necessary supplies and equipment to make our facility run properly. Do not take anything we use for our guests, or facility. It may be available to you, but ask before you take something.
Enota provides a beautiful setting and a high quality of life. This includes lodging, utilities, food from the farm, internet and cell phone access. All cleaning supplies and personal items, you will be responsible for.
Communal areas are to be cleaned on a rotating schedule. All communal areas should be clean and free of personal items. There will be a day off work penalty (meaning you will be working on your day off) if this is not followed. We must have a clean facility at all times.
Cigarette Smoking
We are a non-smoking facility - this means that we do not accept smokers unless you live off of the property.
Conflict Resolution
Nothing hurts or is as destructive to a group of people as much as people talking negatively behind the scene or gossiping about others. Do not talk about others when they are not present. If you are listening to another gossip, it is the same as gossiping. This will not be tolerated at Enota. If you have an upset or grievance with someone, first go to that person for resolution or to someone who can resolve the issue. If you have a grievance or issue that cannot be overcome through direct communication, meditation and prayer, you may make an appointment with a Manager. Constructive communication is always welcome through the proper channels in the spirit of improvement and looking for the good.
Conservation
Policy
We are a conservation and demonstration facility and ask that you work with us to be energy efficient. Turn off all unused lights anywhere you see them. Only run your air conditioning and heating when occupying your unit or in the winter as required to keep pipes from freezing. Try to keep your thermostat no higher than 68 degrees and no freestanding electric heaters.
Daily Work Requirements
This is a service based, professional work environment. We are a business. You are expected to show up on time, in uniform, for your assigned shifts. If for some reason you are unable to be here on time, or can not make your shift, you MUST call management in advance so your shift can be covered. Like any job, if you do not show up without notice, you will be let go.
On any day you are scheduled to work, and guests needs require assistance after your hours have ended for the day, you will be expected to work. Guests are the reason we are all here.
Drugs and
Alcohol
We encourage people to get high off nature and God.
Enota is a substance free environment. No drugs or alcohol are acceptable on this property. The sale and/or distribution of alcoholic beverages and illegal or recreational drugs are not permitted on or off the property. Drinking alcohol by Work Exchangers or Workampers on Enota property is not allowed.
Enota Guest Fraternization
DO NOT SOCIALIZE WITH OUR GUESTS!
We are here to serve our guests with a great attitude and friendly service. We do not eat, drink, take gifts from, or hang out with our guests after hours. Even if they offer, we do not fraternize with them. It is unprofessional! They are not your personal resource. Do not take rides, go to town etc. with our guests. Do not do anything with our guests, except take care of them and serve them. If you do not understand this, you will not be able to work here.
Expansion List
We are always striving and working to make things better. If you have free time and would like to serve/contribute, there is an expansion list at the Front Desk. You can look through the list to see what you are qualified to do and are willing to take on. Go over your ideas with management first. If you know of a project that should be done, submit it, so that we can add it to the list.
Family Visiting
Family is fundamental and very important to us. Let us know in advance when your family is planning to visit. At least a week's notice is necessary for us to adjust your schedule to give you time to visit with your family. Your family is welcome to visit Enota for the day without paying the gate fee or car pass fee with advance notice. If they stay longer overnight or longer, it will be as paying guests. Please discuss arrangements with manager. A 20% discount will be allowed for all types of accommodations for your immediate family, except during holiday weekends and depending upon availability, if they are not staying in your personal RV.
We are a nature preserve. No fishing is allowed in the Enota streams, but is allowed in the pond in front of the Lodge. The policy is the same as guest fishing, “catch keep” and pay the guest rate on all you catch. The 20% discount does apply. Many of our fish wash down stream. There is very good fishing in the National Forest. You are allowed to use the Enota fishing equipment on property and off and are expected to return it to the proper place.
Food
Any raw ingredients or uncooked items are not to be taken from the kitchen to your residence for your personal meals as they are part of our meal planning and for the benefit of the whole facility.
Health
Most Enota Resident Service positions are physical in nature and require a moderate degree of strength and stamina. All health care needs and other personal business will need to be attended to during your personal time.
It is expected that you will be able to maintain a level of physical, emotional and mental health that allows you to actively participate in the Enota lifestyle and fulfill your service responsibilities. If you are physically or emotionally unable to fulfill your commitment, you may be asked to discontinue your participation until you are well enough to fully participate.
You are responsible for all your health care treatment and medical costs, including but not limited to doctors’ visits, prescription drugs and hospitalization. This also includes the costs of any food supplements you might need if the menu provided does not meet your health or taste preferences.
We are committed to assisting you in healing, mind, body and spirit. Because much of the service we do here at Enota can be physically challenging, it is essential that a Manager be made aware of any special needs, physical or psychological, immediately and ongoing. It is your responsibility to take care of your own well-being.
Holidays
On Thanksgiving and Christmas day we have a big holiday feast for ourselves and the guests. Your family and friends are welcome at the guest prices.
Internet Access
Free Internet access is provided through various WI-FI hotspot throughout the property. You are welcome to get your own telephone and Internet service at your site at your own expense.
Laundry
Laundry can be done in the laundry machines at the Dakota and the machines take two dollar per load. You are responsible to provide your own laundry supplies. You can cost share with other workers. When doing your laundry, please stay in attendance so as to free up the equipment quickly for the next person’s use. Do not use guest linens.
Leaving
DO WHAT IS RIGHT. KEEP YOUR COMMITMENT. If your circumstances warrant that you must break your commitment or you just don't want to continue having the courage to communicate - leave on good terms. Give us as much notice as possible so that we cover your position and you do not leave a hardship on those continuing on. Leave you site or space ready for the next person. Put everything back, wash your sheets, return books, tapes and tools, and don't take anything that is not yours - it is stealing. Leave with our blessings and well wishes and be welcomed back. If you break your commitment no stipend is due.
Litter, Maintenance & Clutter
As you walk the grounds, pick up any litter, paper or cigarette butts. Report any maintenance issues to the Front Desk. Don't leave things out in public view, please put it back in its proper place. If you see things left out or clutter around the property, please help by picking it up and putting it away. It is easy to have things accumulate. Help us keep Enota clean – it takes all of us. All entrance doors, particularly around the Lodge, must be kept clear of debris and garbage.
Lodge
The lodge is NOT a communal facility. Please conduct yourself in a business manner when at the Lodge. This is where our guests are forming their opinions of us. You MUST be in uniform at all times in the Lodge.
Mail
Have your mail sent to your name, c/o Enota, 1000 Hwy
180, Hiawassee, GA 30546.
Meal Plan
We are a health minded facility and we encourage everyone to eat as healthy as possible, which is up to you. Since you are a volunteer, you qualify for Georgia's food stamp program at $200 per month. We will help you sign up for this program. You are also welcome to any produce from our garden.
Merchandise Discounts
All Residents are given a 20% discount on items sold
in the Lodge.
Movie Rental and Library
We have approximately 1,000 video movies.
All videos are available to Residents free providing appropriate
paper work is filled out and videos are put away when finished.
Organic Garden & Animal Farm
We have a five-acre organic garden and encourage
everyone to participate and work with us so that we can have our own fresh,
homegrown, organic produce. Farming
is labor intensive. If we want this
blessing, we need service participation.
Shared housing, the laundry room and other Enota spaces will not have locks on the doors and Enota is not responsible for your personal property. If you have an automobile, you are required to keep it legally registered, licensed and insured and you are responsible for any damage that may occur while it is parked on Enota property. Storage space is limited in the bunkhouses for your personal items. Please only bring essential items. You may use your personal vehicle for additional storage.
Personal Space/Decks
We are open to the public. Please keep your decks clean and free from debris.
Personal Telephone Calls
Free long distance anywhere in the continental United
States is available on the front porch
telephone for personal calls. Personal telephone calls are to be received on the porch telephone (706-896-0013). Please arrange a time for your callers to call that
telephone. If personal calls are received by the Front Desk, we will notify the
caller that we will attempt to locate you and arrange for them to call back on
the porch telephone at a specific time. Of
course, in an emergency, calls can be received at the main number, 706-896-9966,
not the 800 number. If you desire a telephone hookup at your RV site, you may have
one at your own expense.
Propane
If you have your own RV, propane is not included in your housing. Propane can be purchased in town or when the truck comes to fill Enota’s tanks, we can have them fill your personal tanks at your expense. No small electric heaters are permitted.
Rain Days
Due to the nature of our work, with most conducted outside, days of rain, when there is not a retreat, will be your day off. Please be sure to check with the Front Desk to see if you are needed.
Recycling
We encourage everyone to recycle. We have composting and recycling bins available in the Lodge and by the TV room.
Safety
Safety is paramount. If you see or know of anything that is unsafe or dangerous to yourself, children or the public, please fix it or let us know so that it can be handled. Wear closed-toed shoes, safety glasses, gloves and use proper equipment when doing service. Please take care of yourself.
If you have a service or gift to offer such as a massage, healing or other therapy, or have expertise in a subject that may be of interest to the Residents or our Guests, please let us know. We will attempt to incorporate them.
Always
know the public is coming and going and we must represent cleanliness.
Absolutely
NO smoking in the building.
Please
use headphones with any personal electronics.
Honor
all that live here – be clean, neat and quiet if someone is sleeping.
Always keep the noise down. RESPECT
EACH OTHER.
10
p.m. – Quiet time – lights out in the bunkhouse. TV room is available for after hours.
Do
not leave any of your belongings lying around any where.
Keep
your clothes in your drawer or hung on hooks.
Nothing
is to be left on the floor but shoes.
Make
your bed every day. Do not keep
any food in the bunkhouse….ants & rodents!
Bathroom
must be left clean and wiped up for the next person. Squeegee the shower after use.
Thoroughly
clean your shared accommodations. Everyone must participate who lives in the bunkhouse.
Vacuuming, wiping down surfaces, sweeping, thorough bathroom
cleaning.
Leave
nothing on outside railings.
Bring
no one into the bunkhouse that is not staying.
Other facilities are available for socializing.
If
you don’t want to keep your space clean – get a tent!
Sites
RV Sites typically consist of water, electric, sewer, concrete pads, picnic tables, fire rings and grills. A few times a year, particularly the three main holidays (Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day) and during the month of October, it may be necessary for to move off your site to another location on the property. We are deeply sorry for any inconvenience this will cause. Please work with us. A sewer dump station is available on the property. Typically it will not be for any longer than four days.
Stipend Award
After your initial six week Trial Period, if you qualify a stipend may be available. Enota is a service-based organization and this stipend award is to cover the bare essentials that are not yet covered by Enota. The stipend is an award and is not to be construed in any way as payment for services.
Enota requires 45 hours of service per week.
Your stipend award is based on all hours over 35 per week at a rate of $5 per hour. To qualify for a stipend, and since you are considered an independent contractor and not an employee, you must complete an IRS form SS-4 to request a EIN and Trade Name. We can assist with this process.
If you break your commitment or violate any Enota policies, no stipend award is payable and any remaining stipend award that might be payable is forfeited. If some unforeseen circumstance occurs that makes it necessary to break your commitment, with a minimum two-week notice, a smooth transition and a loving departure, there is the possibility of receiving the full stipend award.
The first possible stipend award will be given during the seventh or eighth full week of participation, depending upon the designated cutoff days (the 7th and the 22nd of each month). There is typically ten days in holding. The actual stipend award gifting dates are only on the 1st and the 16th of any month, after 2 PM.
Although no stipend award is available for your initial six weeks at Enota, if you complete one year of service at Enota, you will then receive a stipend for those six weeks.
You will be expected to keep accurate service time cards in order to receive the stipend award.
All policies, including this stipend policy, are subject to change.
Service Incentive Benefit
If you stay at Enota for a full year, you qualify for a $50 per month benefit for every month served to be paid once a year on December 1st to offset the loss of the stipend award during the off season time.
This sum will be distributed once a year on December 1st. If you leave early, no partial sum is distributed.
Service Time Cards
Time cards are
located on the rack at the Front Desk and are to be kept up daily.
Please include time out for meals. Be sure to clock out for lunch and breaks. Please make
sure you take care of your well being by getting the breaks you need. Sign in
and out at the time you do it to avoid errors.
We are in the service-based, hospitality industry that serves the public. We are unable to accept individuals who have visible piercing (except earrings), tattoos, and
uncovered dread locks. We honor all in their choices. We have found it extremely difficult for
the general public to accept this presentation. We are service based and need to honor all
including our elderly. Therefore, no visible piercing, tattoos, or uncovered
dreads are allowed. We in no way want
to discriminate against these things. If you are able to keep them
covered, then we would be willing to work with you. We need to have a neat, clean, presentable appearance.
Termination
If you DO NOT follow policy, or perform in the business matter expected of you, YOU WILL BE LET GO.
If you are living on the property, you will be expected to leave by 11am following the day of termination. we are NOT in a landlord, tenant relationship. If you do not leave by the appointed time, once our work relationship has been terminated, you will be charged as a guest in the amount of $40.00 per day.
This does not apply to people who leave in good standing.
We have a ZERO tolerance policy on drinking alcohol, drug use, stealing, or violence. You will be packed up and escorted off Enota property IMMEDIATELY for a violation of any of these.
Theft & Lying
Towns County, the region we are located in, is considered one of the safest places to live in the entire United States according to the Wall Street Journal. We want to keep it that way and do not want to bring the ways of the city and the world here. Theft and lying will not be tolerated. If you know of or see any stealing, abuse or misuse of Enota property, be a part of the solution or you are a part of the problem. Report it to a Manager immediately.
Time off – Major Holidays – Festival
Weeks – Conferences
Extra time off is granted on a first come basis.
Requests must be made two weeks in advance in writing. Obviously, since we are a service/hospitality facility, we must maintain
a staff sufficient to exceed our guest needs, which means everyone is expected
to do service major holidays, festival weeks, weekends and conferences unless
previously agreed to by management staff.
When these events fall on your normal days off, plan on doing service.
Your service schedule will be adjusted to cover these events and you will be
given other days off. Off season we will try to give you two consecutive
days off (after your six week initial period) . In season (March 15 - December 1) we will try to give you one
to one and a half days off. We will attempt to schedule
couples times and days off together, when possible.
Tools & Equipment
Tools and equipment are to be assigned and checked
out daily with a Facilitator. Please
do not ever leave tools out, laying around or unattended. Return tools to appropriate storage areas at the end of your
shift and check them in with a Facilitator. You
will be personally and financially accountable for any non-returned or abused
tools. Check oil and maintenance
before and after each use. If you
are uncertain or unclear about how to use equipment, please ask for
instruction. We ask you to be very
careful and conscious with tools. They
are expensive and are vital to the enjoyable working experience.
Trips to
Town
In order to conserve energy and resources, try to keep trips to town for Enota business to a minimum. If you have a need, please let the Front Desk know so that we can expedite getting what we need and conserve. If you are going to town, please check with the Front Desk.
TV Room
The TV room is available for everyone's (including guests) use.
It typically has satellite and receives the basic channels.
There is also a VCR.
Uniform
Uniform must be worn at all times when working, from the ceremonial circle on, if you are going to be around the business aspect of the farm, or spending time at the Lodge. Shirt MUST be tucked in. we are striving to show a professional appearance.
-Enota Shirt (Provided by Enota)
-Black Dickie Cargo Pants (available online or at Walmart)
-Belt (available at Walmart)
-Black Undershirt during cold weather (available at Walmart)
-Hiking Boot -Ozark Trail (available at Walmart)
Vacation
Vacation is best taken between December 1st and April 1st.
Vehicles
It is a privilege to use Enota vehicles. Do not abuse it. All vehicles are to be used only during your service hours and for service. Drive slow, no faster than five miles per hour. They are not to be used for your own personal use - on or off the property. Don't leave anything in Enota vehicles - especially tools. These vehicles are expensive and vital to the operation of Enota. If you cannot use the vehicles in a conscientious way, being responsible for them by not driving to fast, slowing down to go over bumps, staying awake and aware while using them, then do not use them. You will be personally accountable for any damage caused due to your lack of responsible use. Do not return Enota vehicles to the property with empty gas tanks. You will be reimbursed with a receipt for gas upon your return. (Also see "Trips to Town")
WildernessWilderness areas and outdoor activities are inherently dangerous. You may encounter wildlife, slippery rocks, mud and broken tree limbs. As a guest member of Enota you assume all risks and responsibility for yourself and those with you. Enota is surrounded by the National Forest. As an Enota guest member, no one is to modify U.S. Forest Service property in any way without the proper permit from the U.S. Forest Service. This includes cutting or clearing any vegetation, trees, or tree limbs, blazing trails, building bridges, cleaning or modifying soil, gathering or cutting wood, changing the position of any rocks, or any other change not specifically mentioned. Please leave this public land as you found it and do not disturb or disrupt National Forest Service land.
Revised: March 2014