VOLUNTEER LIABILITY RELEASE, ASSUMPTION OF RISK & AB 506 ACKNOWLEDGMENT

Valley Center Stampede Rodeo, Inc., a California nonprofit public benefit corporation (501(c)(3))

1. Acknowledgment of Inherent Risks

I understand that volunteering at or around a rodeo event involves inherent risks, including but not limited to:

• The unpredictable behavior of horses and livestock

• Being kicked, bitten, stepped on, thrown, or otherwise injured

• Falling from animals, vehicles, gates, or equipment

• Contact with fences, bucking chutes, trailers, or arena surfaces

• Exposure to dust, loud noises, uneven ground, weather conditions

• Crowd-related incidents or emergency situations

I acknowledge that equine and livestock activities are inherently dangerous and may result in serious injury, permanent disability, or death.

2. Assumption of Risk

I voluntarily assume full responsibility for any risk of bodily injury, illness, death, or property damage arising out of or related to my participation as a volunteer for Valley Center Stampede Rodeo, Inc.

3. Release and Waiver of Liability

In consideration of being permitted to volunteer, I hereby release, waive, discharge, and covenant not to sue:

Valley Center Stampede Rodeo, Inc., its directors, officers, board members, employees, agents, contractors, sponsors, arena owners, landowners, affiliates, volunteers, and event partners

from any and all liability, claims, demands, losses, or damages arising from injury, illness, death, or property damage resulting from my volunteer activities, including claims arising from the alleged negligence of any released party, to the fullest extent permitted under California law.

This release does not apply to gross negligence or willful misconduct.

4. Indemnification

I agree to indemnify and hold harmless Valley Center Stampede Rodeo, Inc. from any loss, liability, damage, or costs (including attorney’s fees) arising from my actions or participation as a volunteer.

5. California Equine Activity Liability Notice

Pursuant to California Civil Code Section 1815:

WARNING: Under California law, an equine activity sponsor or equine professional is not liable for an injury to or the death of a participant in equine activities resulting from the inherent risks of equine activities.

I acknowledge receipt and understanding of this warning.

6. Volunteer Status & Workers’ Compensation

I understand that:

• I am serving as an unpaid volunteer.

• I am not an employee of Valley Center Stampede Rodeo, Inc.

• I am not entitled to wages, benefits, or workers’ compensation unless otherwise specifically provided by the organization’s insurance policy.

7. Medical Authorization

In the event of an emergency, I authorize Valley Center Stampede Rodeo, Inc. to obtain medical treatment for me. I understand I am financially responsible for any medical costs incurred.

8. AB 506 YOUTH SERVICE ORGANIZATION COMPLIANCE ACKNOWLEDGMENT

Valley Center Stampede Rodeo, Inc. is a youth-serving organization as defined under California AB 506 (Penal Code §11105.3 and §11165.7).

If my volunteer role involves direct contact with minors, I acknowledge and agree to the following:

A. Background Screening

I understand that I may be required to:

• Complete a DOJ/FBI fingerprint-based background check, and

• Undergo screening pursuant to AB 506 requirements prior to engaging in youth-serving activities.

I agree to cooperate with all required screening procedures.

B. Child Abuse & Neglect Reporting Act (CANRA)

If designated as a Mandated Reporter under California law, I agree to:

• Complete required mandated reporter training,

• Comply with California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act (CANRA), and

• Immediately report any known or reasonably suspected child abuse or neglect as required by law.

C. Youth Protection Policies

I acknowledge that I have received, reviewed, and agree to follow the organization’s Youth Protection and Abuse Prevention Policies, including but not limited to:

• Two-adult rule (where applicable)

• Prohibition of one-on-one unsupervised contact

• Appropriate physical and verbal boundaries

• Reporting procedures for policy violations

Failure to comply with AB 506 requirements or organizational youth protection policies may result in immediate removal from volunteer duties.

9. Photo & Media Release

I grant permission to Valley Center Stampede Rodeo, Inc. to use photographs, video, or other media of me taken during the event for promotional, educational, and fundraising purposes without compensation.

10. Minor Volunteers

If the volunteer is under 18 years of age, a parent or legal guardian must sign the waiver and agrees to all terms of this agreement on behalf of the minor.

11. Severability

If any portion of this agreement is held invalid, the remainder shall continue in full force and effect.

12. Governing Law & Venue

This agreement shall be governed by the laws of the State of California. Venue shall be in San Diego County, California.