Nonprofit Code of Conduct

[ORGANIZATION NAME] Adopted: _______________ | Last Reviewed: _______________

1. Purpose

[Organization Name] (the “Organization”) is committed to operating with integrity, transparency, and accountability. This Code of Conduct establishes the ethical standards and behavioral expectations that guide everyone who serves the Organization — including board members, staff, volunteers, and contractors.

This document exists to protect the people we serve, the public trust we depend on, and the mission we exist to advance. By serving the Organization in any capacity, you agree to uphold the standards in this policy.

2. Who This Policy Covers

This policy applies to all individuals who serve the Organization in any capacity, including:

• All members of the Board of Directors
• All paid staff, including full-time, part-time, and contract employees
• All volunteers, whether recurring, one-time, or remote
• Any individual acting on behalf of the Organization in a public or official role

Together, these individuals are referred to as “covered persons” throughout this policy.

3. Mission and Values Alignment

Covered persons are expected to:

• Act in a manner consistent with the Organization’s mission, vision, and stated values
• Represent the Organization honestly and professionally in all public interactions
• Refrain from using their position with the Organization to advance personal, political, or commercial interests
• Support and uphold the decisions of the Board, even when personally in disagreement

4. Conflicts of Interest

A conflict of interest exists when a personal, financial, or professional interest could influence — or appear to influence — decisions made on behalf of the Organization. All covered persons must:

• Disclose any actual or potential conflict of interest promptly to their supervisor or the Board Chair
• Recuse themselves from any discussion or vote where a conflict exists
• Refrain from using their position to obtain personal benefit from vendors, partners, donors, or clients

This policy is separate from and complementary to any standalone Conflict of Interest Policy adopted by the Board.

5. Confidentiality

Covered persons may have access to sensitive information about clients, donors, staff, finances, or organizational operations. All covered persons must:

• Keep confidential information strictly private and not disclose it outside of authorized duties
• Refrain from discussing client, donor, or staff information with outside parties
• Not take photographs or recordings of clients without explicit written authorization
• Maintain confidentiality obligations even after their service with the Organization ends

When in doubt, do not share. Ask a supervisor if you are unsure what information is appropriate to disclose.

6. Financial Integrity

All board members and staff are expected to:

• Handle organizational funds and assets with care, honesty, and full transparency
• Obtain proper authorization before committing organizational resources
• Refrain from accepting personal gifts, payments, or benefits from donors, vendors, or partners beyond nominal value
• Report any suspected financial misuse or irregularity to the Executive Director or Board Chair immediately

7. Professional Conduct and Respect

The Organization is committed to a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment. All covered persons must:

• Treat colleagues, clients, volunteers, donors, and the public with dignity and respect
• Refrain from harassment, discrimination, or intimidation in any form
• Use inclusive, professional language in all organizational communications, including email, text, and social media
• Avoid conduct that could embarrass or bring disrepute to the Organization

Harassment includes unwanted physical contact, offensive comments, threats, or any behavior that creates a hostile environment. Violations will result in immediate removal from service and may be referred to law enforcement.

8. Use of Organizational Resources

Organizational resources — including equipment, funds, facilities, data systems, and the Organization’s name or logo — are to be used only for authorized organizational purposes. Covered persons must not:

• Use organizational resources for personal purposes
• Represent the Organization publicly or on social media without authorization
• Access organizational systems or data beyond what is required for their role

9. Public Representation and Communications

When speaking publicly or online in connection with the Organization, covered persons must:

• Identify whether they are speaking officially on behalf of the Organization or sharing a personal opinion
• Refrain from making public statements on behalf of the Organization without authorization from the Executive Director or Board
• Refer all media inquiries to designated staff

10. Compliance with Laws and Regulations

All covered persons are expected to comply with applicable federal, state, and local laws in all activities undertaken on behalf of the Organization. This includes laws governing nonprofit governance, employment, data privacy, financial reporting, and fundraising.

11. Reporting Concerns

The Organization encourages anyone who observes a potential violation of this Code to report it promptly. Reports may be made to:

• Supervisor or Department Head: [Name / Contact]
• Executive Director: [Name / Contact]
• Board Chair: [Name / Contact]

The Organization will not retaliate against any individual who raises a concern in good faith. All reports will be handled with appropriate confidentiality. For matters involving financial misconduct or board-level violations, refer to the Organization’s Whistleblower Protection Policy.

12. Annual Review and Acknowledgment

This Code of Conduct will be reviewed by the Board at least once per year. All covered persons must sign the Acknowledgment upon beginning their service and again following each annual review.

Disclaimer: This template is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Adapt this policy to fit your organization’s specific mission, context, and applicable state laws. Consult a nonprofit attorney if you have questions about governance requirements specific to your organization.

Acknowledgment

I have received, read, and understand the Code of Conduct of [Organization Name]. I agree to abide by these standards throughout my service and understand that violations may result in disciplinary action up to and including removal from my role.

Signature: _____________________________ Date: _______________

Printed Name: _________________________