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Mission & Values
Our Code of Ethics
United Way of St. Joseph County, Inc. (UWSJC) is committed to the highest ethical standards. Based on the unique trust placed in UWSJC to serve the public good, we have a special obligation to act ethically.
The success of the United Way and our reputation depend upon the ethical conduct of everyone affiliated with the UWSJC. Volunteers, staff, and representatives set an example for each other, and for member United Way organizations, by their pursuit of excellence in high standards of performance, professionalism, and ethical conduct.
This UWSJC Code of Ethics (Code) is based on our mission and guided by our fundamental values. (see "Our Core Values"): Integrity, Impact, Volunteerism, Inclusiveness, and Leadership.
We are mindful that these core values must be clearly articulated, communicated and continuously reinforced. In addition, more detailed policies, guidelines, explanations, definitions and examples are often needed to bring these values into actual practice. While no document can anticipate all of the challenges that may arise, the Code communicates key guidelines and will assist UWSJC volunteers, staff and representatives in making good decisions that are ethical and in accordance with applicable legal requirements. All are encouraged to discuss any questions or concerns they have with a supervisor or with the UWSJC Staff Ethics Officer.
- Personal and Professional Integrity
- Accountability
- Solicitations and Voluntary Giving
- Diversity and Equal Opportunity
Personal and Professional Integrity.
A personal commitment to integrity in all circumstances benefits each individual as well as the organization. We therefore:
- Strive to meet the highest standards of performance, quality, service and achievement in working towards the UWSJC mission.
- Communicate honestly and openly and avoid misrepresentation.
- Promote a respectful and fair working environment where honesty, open communication and minority opinions are valued.
- Exhibit respect and fairness toward all those with whom we come into contact.
Accountability.
UWSJC is responsible to its stakeholders, which include member UWSJC organizations, donors and others who have placed faith in UWSJC. To uphold this trust we:
- Promote good stewardship of UWSJC resources, including membership fees, grants and other contributions that are used to pay operating expenses, salaries, and employee benefits.
- Refrain from using organizational resources for non-UWSJC purposes.
- Observe and comply with all laws and regulations affecting UWSJC.
Solicitations and Voluntary Giving.
The most responsive contributors are those who have the opportunity to become informed and involved. We therefore:
- Promote voluntary giving in dealing with donors and vendors.
- Refrain from any use of coercion in fundraising activities, including predicating professional advancement on response to solicitations.
Diversity and Equal Opportunity.
UWSJC is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to the principle of diversity. We therefore:
- Value, champion and embrace diversity in all aspects of UWSJC activities and respect others without regard to race, color, religion, creed, age, sex, national origin or ancestry, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, or status as a qualified disabled or handicapped individual.
- Support affirmative action and equal employment opportunity programs throughout UWSJC.
- Refuse to engage in or tolerate in any other form of discrimination or harassment.