Professional Ethics for Welcome Volunteers and Staff

Passed by the Board of Directors in July of 2009

Professional Ethics for Staff and Volunteers

Maintenance of high standards of ethical conduct is a responsibility shared by all members of WELCOME staff and volunteers. WELCOME staff and volunteers agree to adhere to a standard of conduct consistent with the code of ethics established by the WELCOME. Staff and volunteers are required to sign the Accountability For Ethical Conduct Form and to promptly provide notice to the Executive Director of any complaint of unethical or felonious conduct made against them in a civil, criminal, ecclesiastical, employment, or another professional organization's forum.

Any WELCOME staff and volunteers may invoke grievance process when a staff or volunteer’s conduct, inside or outside their professional work involves an alleged abuse of power or authority, involves an alleged felony, or is the subject of civil action or discipline in another forum when any of these impinge upon the ability of a member to function effectively and credibly in their professional capacity.

1. In relationship to those served, WELCOME staff and volunteers:
1. affirm and respect the human dignity and individual worth of each person.
2. do not discriminate against anyone because of perceived, expressed or actual race, gender, age, faith group, national origin, sexual orientation, or disability.
3. respect the integrity and welfare of those served or supervised, refraining from disparagement and avoiding emotional exploitation, sexual exploitation, or any other kind of exploitation.
4. approach the religious convictions of all people with respect and sensitivity.
5. respect confidentiality to the extent permitted by law, regulations or other applicable rules.
2. In relation to groups and institutions, WELCOME staff and volunteers:
1. maintain good standing in WELCOME.
2. abide by the professional practice and/or teaching standards of the state, the community, the congregation and the institution in which they are employed. If, for any reason they are not free to practice or teach according to conscience, they shall notify the Executive Director.
3. maintain professional relationships with other persons in WELCOME, and the faith community in which employed and/or the community.
4. do not directly or by implication claim professional qualifications that exceed actual qualifications or misrepresent their affiliation with any institution, organization or individual; are responsible for correcting the misrepresentation or misunderstanding of their professional qualifications or affiliations.
3. In relation to WELCOME, members:
1. continue professional education and growth, including participation in the meetings and affairs of WELCOME.
2. avoid using knowledge, position or professional association to secure unfair personal advantage; do not knowingly permit their services to be used by others for purposes inconsistent with the ethical standards of WELCOME; or use affiliation with WELCOME for purposes that are not consistent with WELCOME standards.
3. speak on behalf of WELCOME or represent the official position of WELCOME only as authorized by the board of directors.
4. do not make intentionally false, misleading or incomplete statements about their work or ethical behavior when questioned by colleagues.
4. In collegial relationships, WELCOME staff and volunteers:
1. respect the integrity and welfare of colleagues; maintain professional relationships on a professional basis, refraining from disparagement and avoiding emotional, sexual or any other kind of exploitation.
2. take collegial and responsible action when concerns about incompetence, impairment or misconduct arise.
5. In conducting business matters, WELCOME staff and volunteers members:
1. carry out administrative responsibilities in a timely and professional manner.
2. implement sound fiscal practices, maintain accurate financial records and protect the integrity of funds entrusted to their care.
3. distinguish private opinions from those of WELCOME, their faith community or profession in all publicity, public announcements or publications 
4.  accurately describe WELCOME.  All public statements, especially those in correspondence, publications, newsletters, and advertising shall be accurate.