Dartmouth today told employees that they could get a day of paid leave if their homes have been impacted by the storm and flooding that damaged several towns in the Upper Valley, or if they want to volunteer with cleanup efforts.
"We know that while Dartmouth and Hanover were spared, several other communities in the area, especially in Vermont, are still struggling as a result of the flooding," says Emma Wolfe, vice president for government and community relations. "We want to be a good neighbor and help those who need assistance with cleanup and recovery efforts."
Chief Human Resources Officer Sara Lester said Dartmouth will provide one day of paid leave to employees unable to report for a scheduled day of work because of property damage at their homes, cleanup efforts, or lack of road access.
In addition, Dartmouth is encouraging employees to consider volunteering for cleanup or recovery work under an existing benefit. Dartmouth offers one day of paid leave for such volunteering opportunities.
The information was provided to employees and students today in an email from Lester and Wolfe.
"We know this has been a tough week for some of our employees and students, and we thank members of the Dartmouth community who are also pitching in to help friends and neighbors," Lester says.
Employees and students can find volunteer opportunities and other ways to contribute through the Upper Valley Strong flood mobilization recovery effort.
Upper Valley Strong, which was formed in 2011 in response to Tropical Storm Irene, is a group of nonprofit agencies, communities, and governmental representatives who respond to natural disasters in the Upper Valley.