Our Code of Ethics outlines expectations regarding the behavior of our organization towards other members, clients, stakeholders, and society. The Ethical Principles below are based on the Core Values of Commitment, Exceptional Leadership, Diversity, Inclusion, Innovation, and Collaboration.
To join VisionServe Alliance is to commit to being directed by the same values in judgment and behavior, working in accordance with its ethical standards, encouraging the development and implementation of the ethical standards within the industries and professions represented by its members.
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. Click here to download a copy of our Code of Ethics policies
MISSION DRIVEN
We passionately support the field of people who are blind, have low vision, or other visual impairment. This focus is our primary consideration in decisions, behaviors, and actions we make every day to prioritize the needs of our clients and membership.
INTEGRITY and HONESTY
Integrity is indispensable to our mission as well as being accountable to the greater good of serving our community of interest. We are committed to act 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, and 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 will 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 which derive any personal profit or gain, directly or indirectly, by reason of his or her service to the organization.
INCLUSIVITY
We welcome everyone with a passion to serve the community of people who are blind or visually impaired. We respect and value diverse life challenges, creating an environment that is inclusive of all 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.
Infringements to the Code of Ethics policy may be reported by emailing admin@visionservealliance.org All allegations of improper behavior will be reviewed by the Executive Committee of the VSA Board of Directors. If anyone has further questions about the Code of Ethics policy, they can contact Wendy Hymes for further clarification.