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Ethics Policy & Code of Conduct

This serves as our guiding compass, defining the principles and expectations that shape our organization. It empowers us to act ethically, treat all with respect, and promote inclusivity. By upholding these standards, we ensure a safe and supportive environment for everyone involved in our mission.

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Introduction

RioProgress is an educational non-profit organization dedicated to providing equitable educational opportunities and empowering individuals in the Rio de Janeiro community. Our Ethics Policy outlines the principles and standards that guide our organization, staff, volunteers, and stakeholders in their conduct and decision-making processes. This policy serves as a foundation for maintaining integrity, transparency, and ethical practices in all aspects of our operations.

Commitment to Mission and Values

At RioProgress, we are committed to our mission of fostering educational growth and empowerment. We believe in promoting equal access to quality education, fostering inclusivity, and nurturing personal development. We expect all individuals associated with our organization to share and uphold these values in their actions, decisions, and interactions.

Integrity and Transparency

Integrity and transparency are fundamental to our organization's credibility and trustworthiness. We expect all staff, volunteers, and stakeholders to demonstrate honesty, accountability, and ethical behavior. This includes:

  1. Acting in the best interests of the organization and its beneficiaries, avoiding conflicts of interest, and promptly disclosing any potential conflicts that may arise.
  2. Conducting business with integrity, honesty, and fairness, avoiding any form of fraudulent, deceptive, or misleading practices.
  3. Maintaining accurate and transparent records, financial reporting, and documentation in compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
  4. Protecting the privacy and confidentiality of personal information and sensitive data entrusted to us.

Equality and Inclusion

We are committed to creating an inclusive and equitable environment that values diversity, respects individual rights, and promotes equal opportunities. Discrimination or harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, or any other protected characteristic is strictly prohibited. We strive to ensure that all individuals, regardless of their background, have equal access to our educational programs and services.

Student Protection & Safeguarding

RioProgress places the utmost importance on the safety and well-being of students and vulnerable individuals. We are dedicated to protecting them from all forms of abuse, exploitation, or harm. We have robust policies and procedures in place to ensure a safe environment, including appropriate screening, training, and supervision of staff and volunteers. Any suspicions or allegations of abuse, harassment, or neglect will be reported to the relevant authorities promptly.

Responsible Resource Management

We are committed to responsibly managing the resources entrusted to us, including financial resources, materials, and human capital. This includes:

  1. Utilizing funds and resources in a manner consistent with our mission and in compliance with applicable laws and donor restrictions.
  2. Maintaining accurate and transparent financial records and regularly reporting on the use and impact of funds.
  3. Ensuring that donations and sponsorships are accepted and used for their intended purposes.
  4. Implementing sustainable practices to minimize our environmental impact.

Professionalism and Respectful Relationships

We expect all individuals associated with RioProgress to maintain professional conduct and foster respectful relationships. This includes:

  1. Treating all individuals, including colleagues, partners, beneficiaries, students, and volunteers, with respect, dignity, and fairness.
  2. Promoting a positive and inclusive work environment free from harassment, bullying, or any form of disrespectful behavior.
  3. Resolving conflicts or disagreements in a constructive and respectful manner, seeking mediation or guidance when necessary.

Compliance, Monitoring, and Reporting

RioProgress is committed to complying with all applicable laws, regulations, and industry standards. We will regularly review and update our policies and practices to ensure ongoing compliance. Any suspected violations of this Ethics Policy should be reported promptly and will be thoroughly and impartially investigated. Whistleblowers will be protected from retaliation, and confidentiality will be maintained to the extent possible.

Policy Review and Amendments

This Ethics Policy will be reviewed periodically to ensure its effectiveness and alignment with our mission and values. Amendments may be made to address emerging ethical issues or changes in laws and regulations. Updated versions will be communicated to all staff, volunteers, and stakeholders.

By adhering to this Ethics Policy, we demonstrate our commitment to maintaining the highest standards of ethical conduct and social responsibility. Together, we strive to create positive educational opportunities and make a lasting impact in the lives of individuals and the communities we serve.

Staff Code of Conduct

This Code of Conduct is designed to provide all RioProgress (RP) Employees, Volunteers, and Partners (Staff) with a set of principles and expectations for appropriate conduct and behavior.

All persons participating in any capacity shall abide by and conform to these professional standards:

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1. Staff shall act honestly and ethically while in the performance of their duties.
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2. Staff shall treat all employees, volunteers, and community members with respect, courtesy, and dignity.
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3. Staff shall not discriminate and shall be respectful of race, color, national origin, age, disability, religion, or sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity).
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4. Staff shall not harass, bully, or mistreat staff, students, volunteers, or participants.
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5. Staff shall obey all applicable local, state, and federal laws, while acting on behalf of RP , including all laws and regulations that govern appropriate conduct in the workplace, and in an educational setting.
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6. Staff shall deter wrongdoing and ensure accountability for adherence to the Code of Conduct.
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7. Staff shall assist and cooperate with all RP investigations.
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8. Staff shall report violations or suspected violations of the Code of Conduct. Violations should be reported to the assigned staff partner, their manager, or using the Anonymous Reporting form attached here.
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9. Staff shall seek assistance if they have questions about any volunteer guidelines, including the Code of Conduct. If a staff member or volunteer has any questions or concerns about the code of conduct or wishes to file a formal complaint, they may contact RP at ethics@rioprogress.org

Adherence to Policies

RP develops these policies, procedures, and guidelines with input from both staff and volunteers and with consultation from legal, finance, and risk management experts; our policies, procedures, and guidelines are updated regularly as new information, situations, and events emerge. All participants in RioProgress are expected to comply with these policies including those described within this document. Failure to comply may be grounds for disqualification and/or removal.

Bullying

Bullying may rise to the level of harassment and is therefore prohibited. Bullying is defined as unwelcome or unreasonable behavior that demeans, intimidates, or humiliates people, either as individuals or as a group. Bullying behavior is often persistent and part of a pattern, but it can also occur as a single incident. Some examples of bullying behavior include but are not limited to: abusive and offensive language, insults, teasing, and spreading rumors. It can also include a manipulation of the work environment or psychological manipulation.

Compliance

Volunteers may be asked to complete paperwork, provide updated information (including proof of insurance), or complete a criminal background check for certain volunteer roles. Failure to complete these requirements may disqualify a volunteer from serving in a particular role. If appropriate based on the circumstances, volunteers who are disqualified for a volunteer role may have the option to explore other volunteer opportunities with RP with the approval from RP Directors.

Drug, Alcohol and Tobacco use

Business-related activities must be conducted free from the influence of alcohol and illegal drugs. In addition, these substances may not be possessed or distributed on RP premises or events. During business functions where alcohol is served, volunteers and employees are expected to conduct themselves in a professional manner.

Use of tobacco or e-cigarettes in RP offices, on RP premises, in vehicles, at RP events and functions, and while representing RP at any time or function is prohibited.

While Medical and recreational marijuana use is legal in certain areas of the United States, federal and state laws indicate that RP is under no obligation to accommodate cannabis use in our offices or events.

An employee/volunteer cannot report to the workplace impaired, nor should an employee/volunteer smell of marijuana per the expectation for scents and hygiene in the workplace.

The workplace consists of all property and facilities owned, leased, or rented by RP, including grounds, buildings, vehicles, and any other equipment, and any site where an employee/volunteer performs work.

Under the Drug-Free Workplace Act, employers must prohibit in the workplace the unlawful manufacture, distribution, possession, or use of controlled substances, including marijuana that is otherwise lawful under state law.

If the employee/volunteer’s personal vehicle is parked within an area defined as the workplace, the rules governing a drug free workplace apply. If an employee/ volunteer parks in a private lot not under the control of RP, the employee/volunteer is subject to any applicable restrictions of the property owner and the laws applicable to marijuana in vehicles.

Good Stewardship

Serving in any capacity with RioProgress requires good judgement and management of reasonable risks. All staff will be given a general company orientation and a specific training to understand and manage the risks in carrying out their specific jobs. Volunteers will be required to comply with these policies and to conduct RP business at the direction of RP within the scope of their duties as a volunteer.