Ethical Code of Conduct for Project LIFT
Introduction
This Code outlines the ethical principles and standards of conduct expected from all employees regarding business practices, marketing, contractual relationships, conflicts of interest, social media use, service delivery, and professional responsibilities.
Core Values
- Business
- Conduct all business activities honestly and transparently.
- Honor commitments and agreements in all business dealings.
- Marketing Ethics
- Ensure that all marketing practices are truthful and not misleading.
- Respect customer privacy and obtain consent before using personal data.
- Contractual Relationships
- Negotiate contracts fairly and transparently.
- Fulfill all contractual obligations and communicate openly about any issues.
- Conflicts of Interest
- Avoid situations where personal interests conflict with company interests.
- Disclose any potential conflicts to management immediately.
- Service Deliveries
- Maintain professionalism in all service delivery situations.
- Refrain from accepting or giving gifts, money, or gratuities that could influence business decisions. Small tokens of appreciation may be acceptable but should be disclosed to management.
- Personal Fundraising
- Do not engage in personal fundraising during work hours or using company resources.
- Be transparent about personal fundraising efforts with colleagues if they overlap with company activities.
- Professional Responsibilities
- Uphold the highest standards of professionalism in all interactions.
- Continuously seek professional development and improvement.
- Human Resources
- Treat all employees fairly and with respect in accordance with company policies.
- Report any discriminatory practices or harassment to HR immediately.
- Prohibition of Waste, Fraud, Abuse, and Other Wrongdoings
- Actively prevent and report any instances of waste, fraud, abuse, or unethical behavior.
- Use company resources responsibly and efficiently, and report any suspected wrongdoing immediately.
- Personal Property
- Respect personal property and refrain from using company resources for personal gain without permission.
- Set clear boundaries regarding the use of personal and company property.
- Social Media Use
- Represent the company responsibly on social media platforms.
- Maintain confidentiality and avoid sharing proprietary information.
- Respect the rights and opinions of others when engaging online.
- Witnessing Legal Documents
- Employees should not witness legal documents on behalf of the company unless authorized to do so.
- Ensure that personal involvement in such matters does not conflict with company interests.
- Accountability
- Take responsibility for your actions and their impact on the company and stakeholders.
- Report unethical behavior or violations without fear of retaliation.
- Advocacy Efforts for Persons Served
- Actively support and advocate for the rights and needs of individuals served by the company.
- Engage with community organizations and stakeholders to promote inclusivity and access to services.
- Corporate Citizenship
- Strive to be a responsible corporate citizen by contributing positively to the communities in which we operate.
- Encourage employee involvement in community service and philanthropic initiatives that align with the company’s values.
Reporting Violations
- No-Reprisal Approach: The company is committed to fostering a culture where employees can report concerns without fear of retaliation. Any form of reprisal against individuals who report violations in good faith is strictly prohibited.
- Timeframes for Reporting: Employees are encouraged to report violations as soon as possible, ideally within 30 days of the incident. Prompt reporting facilitates timely investigations and resolutions.
- Investigation Process: All reported violations will be investigated promptly and thoroughly. Employees can expect a preliminary response within five business days of reporting, with the goal of concluding investigations within 30 days when possible.
Implementation
- Training: Regular training on this Code will be provided to all employees.
- Disciplinary Action: Violations may lead to disciplinary action, up to and including termination, depending on the severity and frequency of the violations.
Conclusion
Adhering to this Ethical Code of Conduct fosters a positive workplace culture and builds trust with clients, partners, and the community. Each employee plays a vital role in maintaining the integrity of our business.
