Scope

This policy applies to all staff, Board Members, Committee Members, and Volunteers regardless of rank or employment type. Our Ethics also extend to VSA membership in that we expect any organization associated with VSA to embrace and measure themselves by these ethical standards. 

Download a copy of our Code of Ethics policies

Mission Driven

We passionately support the field of people with blindness and low vision. This focus is our primary consideration in decisions, behaviors, and actions we take every day to prioritize the needs of our clients and members.

Integrity and Honesty

Integrity is indispensable to our mission and being accountable for the greater good of serving our community of interest. We are committed to acting honestly, truthfully, and accurately through our personal and professional behavior, with all organization records and reporting obligations.

Transparency

Transparency embodies honesty and open communication. We openly and honestly disclose information to build trust and confidence with our stakeholders.

Harassment and Discrimination

We do not tolerate any form of discrimination or harassment within our organization or at any activities, meetings, or outreach events. There is no acceptance of members, staff, or stakeholders being subjected to offensive, abusive, or other unwanted behavior which violates personal dignity or creates an intimidating, hostile, or humiliating environment. (e.g., physical, sexual, psychological, verbal, or any other form of harassment).

Conflicts of Interest

We avoid any activity or practice which conflicts with, or can be perceived as conflicting with the interests of VSA, including but not limited to situations that derive any personal profit or gain, directly or indirectly, because of their service to the organization.

Inclusivity

We welcome everyone passionate about serving the community of people with blindness and low vision. We respect and value diverse life challenges, creating an inclusive environment for all and encouraging participation regardless of political affiliation or status.

Collaboration

We foster collaboration with all sectors in our field and encourage cooperation amongst members to share resources and advance common values in the service of our community.

Financial Integrity

We are stewards of our resources and contributions. Funds, financial statements, and records are managed accurately with full accountability available for audit when requested by Staff, Board, Members, or any regulatory authority. We value all members, no matter the size of their financial stake in VSA.