Become a Lactation University Volunteer

Lactation University has received approval from IBLCE as a recognized Breastfeeding Support Group. This important designation will allow our volunteers to earn the elusive clinical hours required to sit the board exams to become an IBCLC. This position is not limited to those who desire to become Lactation Consultants, but it is an added bonus for individuals striving to earn the clinical certification.

LUV provide individuals, families and communities with support and education while Lactation University provides the curriculum, mentoring, advertising, guidance and tools to make volunteers successful.

LUVS Introductory Video

Qualifications
All volunteers are required to complete the Certified Lactation Educator Training (CLE) or the IBCLC Prep Course from LU within 3 years of accepting a role as a designated LUVS. Those who attend the CLE Training can operate as volunteers once they complete the 24-hour training, but are required to continue the steps to certify or show proof of 15 L-CERPS every 3 years to maintain LUVS status.
Steps to become LUVS
  1. Attend a CLE or IBCLC Prep Course offered through Lactation University
  2. Watch the Introductory Video
  3. Attend a special LUVS Training ($89 investment)
  4. Complete the Lactation University Communications Course earning 5 L-Cerps from IBLCE ($45 investment)
  5. Complete required reading
  6. Volunteer to facilitate support groups, respond to phone calls, emails and texts, or facilitate a LUVS Book Club for a minimum of 2 hours weekly (volunteers can also count other contacts)
  7. Document volunteer hours on the Tracker Tool and submit it to Lactation University monthly or quarterly
  8. Read and agree to the LUV Code of Ethics
  9. Complete the online application
  10. Commit to a minimum 2-year position as a LUV

Code of Ethics for Lactation University Volunteer Support

Lactation University has a strong foundation of ethics, confidentiality, honesty and trust. We have established the following Code of Ethics to convey the spirit of LU with Volunteers. Every LUV must agree to the Code of Ethics in order to preserve the integrity of the program.

The Code of Ethics for LU Volunteer Supporter (LUVS) serves as a guide for how trained volunteers are expected to interact with LU and those they support in person and through social media platforms.

Intellectual Property
Lactation University collaborates with other organizations and community programs to provide services. LU also promotes our volunteer support program through several outlets. It is imperative that the LUVS are providing what LU is advertising. There is still room for creative license with presenting the information, determining the length of time for topics, selecting teaching methods and activities. Topics for follow up and individual counseling is at the discretion of the LUV.

In order to maintain the integrity of the program, LUV are expected to follow the curriculum provided for each club or group. It is also crucial that each LUV guard the proprietary course material provided.
  • LUVS Must follow the prescribed curriculum for each club or class 
  • LUVS Facilitators understand that all training material, handouts and lessons are the intellectual property of Lactation University and cannot be used without the expressed, written permission from LU. LUV agree to not copy, reproduce or distribute (in whole or in part) any material or concepts originated from Lactation University.

Conflict of Interest
LUVS must disclose any conflicts of interest in relevant organizations providing goods or services. We understand and appreciate the many volunteers and their contributions to the lactation world through their businesses and private practices, but while representing Lactation University, it is important that LUVS respect the following conditions: 
  • LUVS are required to offer support, referrals and education free from personal or commercial interests
  • LUVS offer their services free of charge and without monetary compensation
  • LUVS may not promote their personal enterprises or businesses or direct attendees to their private practice for services
  • LUVS may not solicit to sell merchandise, education, consultations or any other "for profit" items to attendees
  • LUVS may include their own information in lists of resources and referrals, but must avoid influencing or persuading students to select their practice

LUVS in Practice
  • LUVS are expected to use good counseling and communication skills and seek solutions with their counselees
  • LUVS must provide pertinent, non-judgmental information, allowing families the opportunity to make informed decisions
  • LUVS are required to offer evidence-based information
  • LUVS are committed to preserving the confidentiality of clients
  • LUVS must consider culturally appropriate recommendations 
  • LUVS must uphold the WHO International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes
  • LUVS must communicate is a fashion that demonstrates honesty, integrity and respect 
  • LUVS must support diversity, cultural competence, and honored traditions 
  • LUVS comply with all applicable laws
  • LUVS honors the Scope of Practice by providing support, education and referrals
  • LUVS do not diagnose or prescribe

LUVS recognize and agree with the following statements:
  • We believe that humans are mammals and that breastfeeding is the biological and cultural norm.
  • We are a non-discriminate body of volunteers that serve our community regardless of race, color, national origin, disability, age, sex, religion or sexual orientation. We serve all educational and income levels.
  • We are not provided monetary compensation for our time.

​Documentation
  • LUVS will maintain records and submit documentation of number of individuals served monthly or quarterly
  • LUVS will document the number of hours support is provided on the LUVS Tracker
  • LUVS will document types of support given to the community (book club, meetings, phone support, emails, etc.)
  • LUVS agree to stay current with lactation issues and use evidence-based references in education and counseling. LUVS are required to show proof of 15 CEUs every 3 years, or a current IBCLC or CLE Certification
​LUVS agree to represent Lactation University by honoring this Code and supporting families with empathy, compassion, referrals, education and emotional support.
LUVS agree to handle any grievances through the process that has been provided prior to their accepting of a volunteer role.
LUVS agree to voluntarily withdraw from the position at any time substance abuse, mental distress, or physical limitation affects the manner in which support can be provided. Active LUV must submit a letter or resignation to Lactation University to be removed from the program.

If you agree to the LU Code of Ethics and would like to be considered for the position of a LUVS, please submit an application. Application submission confirms that you have read and agree to every part of the Code of Ethics listed.