Code of Conduct

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Effective Date: November 12, 2023
Last Updated: March 20, 2026

1. Purpose and Commitment

Mentor Me Now Foundation is committed to maintaining a safe, respectful, inclusive, and professional environment for all employees, volunteers, mentors, program participants, families, and community partners.

This Code of Conduct establishes the standards of behavior expected from all individuals who represent or engage with the Foundation. Adherence to these standards supports a positive organizational culture, protects participant well-being, and ensures the integrity and effectiveness of all programs and services.

Failure to comply with this Code of Conduct may result in corrective action, including suspension or termination of employment, volunteer engagement, or program participation.

2. Professional Conduct

All individuals associated with Mentor Me Now Foundation are expected to:

• Conduct themselves in a professional, courteous, and respectful manner
• Treat all individuals with dignity regardless of age, background, identity, or role
• Maintain appropriate personal and professional boundaries
• Support a safe and welcoming environment for youth and adult participants

Aggressive, threatening, abusive, or disruptive behavior will not be tolerated.

Any form of discrimination, harassment, intimidation, or retaliation is strictly prohibited.

3. Ethical Behavior and Integrity

Employees, volunteers, mentors, and participants must act with honesty, accountability, and integrity at all times.

The following behaviors are prohibited:

• Fraudulent or deceptive conduct
• Misrepresentation of qualifications or authority
• Misuse of organizational resources
• Conflicts of interest that may compromise program integrity

All confidential information, including participant records, personal data, program materials, and internal communications, must be safeguarded and shared only with authorized individuals.

4. Respectful Communication

Mentor Me Now Foundation promotes positive and constructive communication across all interactions.

All individuals must:

• Communicate respectfully in person, in writing, and through digital platforms
• Avoid language or behavior that is offensive, defamatory, or demeaning
• Foster inclusive dialogue that supports learning, growth, and collaboration

Bullying, gossip, or hostile communication is not acceptable in any organizational setting.

5. Compliance with Laws, Policies, and Procedures

All individuals engaged with the Foundation must comply with:

• Applicable local, state, and federal laws
• Organizational policies and program guidelines
• Child protection and safeguarding standards
• Health, safety, and risk management protocols

Individuals are responsible for understanding and following the policies relevant to their role and participation.

Any known or suspected violation of laws or organizational policies must be reported promptly.

6. Reporting Concerns and Violations

Mentor Me Now Foundation encourages a culture of accountability and transparency.

All employees, volunteers, mentors, and participants have a responsibility to report:

• Violations of this Code of Conduct
• Unsafe or inappropriate behavior
• Ethical concerns or misconduct

Reports may be made to the Executive Director, designated program supervisor, or a member of the governing board.

All reports will be handled confidentially to the extent possible and investigated in a timely and fair manner.

Retaliation against individuals who raise concerns in good faith is strictly prohibited.

7. Enforcement and Disciplinary Action

Violations of this Code of Conduct will result in appropriate disciplinary action based on the nature and severity of the misconduct.

Possible actions may include:

• Verbal or written warnings
• Suspension from program participation or volunteer duties
• Removal from organizational activities
• Termination of employment or volunteer engagement
• Referral to appropriate authorities when required

8. Acknowledgment and Agreement

All employees, volunteers, mentors, and program participants must acknowledge and agree to comply with this Code of Conduct.

Employees and volunteers are required to sign a formal acknowledgment confirming that they have read, understood, and will adhere to the standards outlined in this policy.

Approved By:
Dr. LaTonya Miller
Executive Director
Mentor Me Now Foundation