Code of Conduct
All DSF volunteers are professionals. We are responsible for adding value to the organization and contributing to the success of DSF. We accept professional responsibility for our individual decisions and actions. We are advocates for the organization by engaging in activities that enhance its credibility and value.
DSF is committed to providing a safe and secure environment for all of our students, Scholars, volunteers and staff. The following areas support our commitment to this safe and secure environment.
- Volunteers will respond to students with respect and consideration and treat all students fairly, regardless of sex, gender identity, race, religion, culture, economic status, or disability.
- Volunteers shall take measures to limit closed door time with students.
- Volunteers shall not abuse students in any way. No type of abuse will be tolerated and may be cause for immediate dismissal. Types of abuse include: •physical abuse---striking, spanking, shaking, slapping, and so on;
• verbal abuse---humiliating, degrading, threatening, and so on;
• sexual abuse---touching or speaking inappropriately;
• mental abuse---shaming, being cruel, and so on;
- Smoking or use of tobacco in the presence of students or parents during working hours is prohibited.
- Volunteers may not be alone with students they meet in DSF programs outside of DSF program activities. This includes babysitting, sleepovers, driving or riding in cars, and inviting students to their homes.
- Volunteers may not date or have sexual relations with any current student or Scholar.
- Volunteers are to provide services only within the boundaries of their job role.
- Volunteers will not assign a volunteer, student or Scholar to fill in for any staff work assignments.
- Volunteers will portray a positive role model for students by maintaining an attitude of loyalty, patience, courtesy, tact, and maturity.
- Volunteers are required to report any concerns of abuse, neglect, or intent to hurt self or others to a school official. Volunteers are required to report any concerns of abuse, neglect, or intent to hurt self or others to the on-site DSF staff member. Staff based at a school or college campus must follow its mandatory reporting policies.
- Volunteers will act in a caring, honest, respectful, and responsible manner consistent with the mission and values of DSF.
- Volunteers are to report any other staff or volunteer who violates any of the policies listed in this Code of Conduct to a manager.
DSF’s Code of Conduct also applies to all online behavior, whether engaging professionally or personally. Ultimately, you are solely responsible for what you post online. Before creating online content, consider some of the risks and rewards that are involved. Keep in mind that any conduct that (1) adversely affects your job performance, (2) adversely affects or creates a disruption in the performance of fellow employees, (3) creates a disruption or has the potential to create a disruption with clients, suppliers, donors, students/Scholars, stakeholders, other people who work on behalf of DSF, or the general public, (4) has the potential to adversely affect DSF’s legitimate business interests, or (5) violates DSF’s personnel policies set forth herein. Any online behavior that relates to a bona fide occupational requirement, relates to the employment activities and responsibilities of a particular employee or a particular group of
employees, or creates either a conflict of interest or the appearance of a conflict of interest, may be grounds for discipline, including immediate termination.
This Code of Conduct is not exhaustive. Any conduct that DSF deems to be inappropriate or contrary to DSF’s mission and values may result in disciplinary action up to and including termination of volunteer participation.