Volunteering policy

 

This policy outlines our approach to volunteering at Studio TIEY. Its purpose is to help volunteers understand what to expect, discuss these expectations and make informed, consensual decisions about their involvement.

Table of content

  • PROFESSIONAL ASSIGNMENTS VS. VOLUNTEERING ASSIGNMENTS

  • VOLUNTEER ASSIGNMENT DESCRIPTIONS

    • BECOMING A TIEY MODEL

    • OCCASIONAL ROPE MODELING DURING TIEY COURSES

    • ROPE MODELING FOR PARTICIPANTS

    • ROPE MODELING FOR GUEST PRESENTERS

    • HOSTING DURING TIEY EVENTS

    • SPECIALTY ASSIGNMENTS

    • OTHER ASSIGNMENTS

    EXPENSES & INSURANCE

  • REWARDS

  • ROPE MODELS SAFETY NET

    • PRIMARY SAFETY NET

    • SECONDARY SAFETY NET

    • TERTIARY SAFETY NET

  • VOLUNTEER REQUIREMENTS

  • HOW TO SHOW INTEREST

PROFESSIONAL Assignments vs. Volunteering Assignments

Before starting an assignment, we’ll discuss how you relate to the role:

  • Professional Assignments: If you identify as a professional offering a service, we will explore your financial expectations and define mutual responsibilities. From there on we will discuss formalities as parties stated as above: Offering a service vs. Receiving a service. Note: We can only contract you as a professional if you have a legitimate business and are able to provide us with an invoice.

  • Volunteering Assignments: If you wish to volunteer your time and energy, we’ll focus on what you would like to gain from the experience and how (and if) Studio TIEY can accommodate these goals.

This policy is solely focused on volunteering assignments. Professional assignments are handled through separate contracts, which are developed following thorough discussions.

Volunteer Assignment Descriptions

Becoming a TIEY Model

TIEY models work directly with Peter Etheros before and during courses or performances, in a long-term, growth-oriented trajectory.

  • What’s in it for you?
    This role involves personalized coaching from Peter, skill development in modeling, and hands-on rope experience. Note: This is distinct from being a personal model; clear boundaries are established and regularly reviewed.

  • Your Commitment
    Long-term commitment is required, aiming for progression to advanced modeling skills.

Occasional Rope Modeling During TIEY Courses

Occasional rope modeling is a short-term role, limited to modeling for Peter Etheros during a course. Typically, the model is a participant invited during the course to assist with demonstrations between exercises.

  • What’s in it for you?
    Volunteering as an occasional model presents an excellent opportunity to experience the exercises in a professional setting. This allows you to feel subtle differences in techniques, which can be valuable for providing feedback to your rope partner(s).

  • Your Commitment
    No commitment is required. You can accept or decline on the spot—no hard feelings!

Rope Modeling for Participants

Being a model for participants during a course involves partnering with someone you may not know. When we receive a model inquiry, we act as the intermediary between you and the participant, stating clear boundaries (you are volunteering for the participant, only for the course, with no commitment to any before or after engagement).

  • What’s in it for you?
    Volunteering as a model presents an excellent opportunity to learn within the supportive environment of a guided group. Note: Volunteering is at the request of a third party, and Studio TIEY only provides an intermediary service. Any potential further arrangements must be made directly between you and the requester.

  • Your Commitment
    No long-term commitment is required; assignments are offered on a course-by-course basis.

Rope Modeling for Guest Presenters

This involves modeling for guest presenters before and/or during workshops and/or performances. The presenter typically handles the agreements, even for TIEY models. This includes boundaries, logistics and compensation.

  • What’s in it for you?
    A unique chance to experience different styles in a professional setting.

  • Your Commitment
    No long-term commitment is required, though priority is given to TIEY models with long-term commitments.

Hosting During TIEY Events

Hosting involves tasks such as:
Social Skills: Welcoming guests and/or presenters, assisting with queries, distributing drink cards, …
Household Tasks: Cleaning, providing snacks and/or food, emptying bins, …

  • What’s in it for you?
    A chance to actively participate in the TIEY community while contributing time (and your hosting/social) skills. No entry ticket is required, and the balance is roughly 30-50% hosting and 50-70% leisure.

  • Your Commitment
    No long-term commitment is required; hosting assignments are event-based.

Specialty Assignments

We occasionally require specialized skills (e.g., legal advice, IT services, photography, or construction). For these roles, we agree on a fair framework on a case-by-case basis.

  • What’s in it for you?
    Your expertise is invaluable. We’ll discuss your expectations and how we can make your contribution rewarding.

  • Your Commitment
    No long-term commitment is required. Tasks are divided into manageable chunks with clear start and end points, goals and expectations.

Other Assignments

These include tasks such as picking up packages, grocery shopping, distributing flyers and/or cleaning after events.

  • What’s in it for you?
    These tasks are usually handled by our "insiders," deeply committed to the studio or its community.

  • Your Commitment
    No commitment is required. You can accept or decline on the spot—no hard feelings!

Expenses & Insurance

Volunteers can claim out-of-pocket expenses by submitting receipts to Peter. Insurance coverage is provided for all volunteers.

Rewards

We recognize the dedication involved in volunteering in all its aspects. It’s part of our core values to acknowledge and respect the work of our volunteers by ensuring they are fairly compensated and by prioritizing their physical and mental well-being.

We focus on what you hope to gain from the experience and how (and if) Studio TIEY can support these goals. A few common examples include:

  • Free entrance and drinks at specific events (not necessarily limited to the event you're volunteering for).

  • Accommodation and food (not necessarily limited to the event timing you're volunteering for).

  • Financial compensation (volunteering compensation. For financial compensation as a professional, please refer to the "Professional Assignments vs. Volunteering Assignments" section).

Also, be sure to check the "What’s in it for you?" sections per specific assignment.

ROPE MODELS SAFETY NET

Primary safety net

Consent is a core value at Studio TIEY, and all models are thoroughly informed and supported throughout their practice. Rope models will only be assigned tasks that match their experience and knowledge level. As a rope model, you can always rely on us to voice any concerns or doubts you may have. If you change your mind about an assignment, even in the moment, please don't hesitate to speak up! We are committed to maintaining open communication and dialogue at all times.

Example 1: You may be asked to perform an exercise you are not comfortable with.

Example 2: Your understanding of potential risks and benefits may evolve throughout a course, and/or you may come to view a particular aspect as concerning.

secondary safety net

Our TIEY volunteers (a.k.a. the TIEY family) are a close-knit group of wonderful individuals. You can always count on support and transparency among members, and we’re here for each other—whether you need a shoulder to cry on, a place to vent, or someone to share your worries or concerns with. We are one team, fostering an open and accepting environment. If you’re concerned that you might sound blunt, please remember that we all appreciate direct, clear communication, and there’s no need to hesitate in voicing your concerns!

tertiary safety net

Ropehelp is an external contact point for issues related to rope bondage. It was founded by a group of international volunteers who have come together to provide support for those seeking help. Some members of Studio TIEY have also dedicated themselves. However, you also have the option to reach out to rope helpers who are independent of the Studio. Rest assured, any communication you initiate will be handled with complete confidentiality.

Volunteer Requirements

General requirements and practicalities to ensure a positive experience for everyone:

  • Volunteering involves shared responsibility, and it's equally important for both us and you to follow through on all agreements and address any issues or concerns.

  • Be able to initiate a feedback session if you have any concerns or questions. You can rely on us to do the same, as we highly value open, direct, and clear communication.

  • Representing Studio TIEY means respecting our general guidelines.

  • Please inform us of any specific legal considerations (e.g., having an unemployment status may require an exemption from governmental institutions) so we can take appropriate action and make any necessary arrangements.

Additional requirements, specifically for models:

  • Be able to communicate any physical or psychological discomfort, concerns, or issues.

  • As a rope model, your understanding of potential risks and benefits may evolve over time. Therefore, it is essential to regularly check in with yourself and promptly communicate any conflicting thoughts. It is always better to be safe than sorry!

  • Please inform us of any specific medical conditions. We are strong advocates of adapting shibari to properly fit each individual / body. While medical conditions are not necessarily a dealbreaker, it is essential for us to fully understand your condition so that we can take the appropriate safety precautions.

How to Show Interest

We’re delighted that you’re considering volunteering with Studio TIEY!
To express your interest, simply fill out the form below. We’ll arrange a meeting to discuss mutual expectations with no obligation.

Thank you for your dedication and support!

 
Peter Jaspers