NATIONAL HEMOPHILIA FOUNDATION VOLUNTEER CODE OF CONDUCT

This Code of Conduct is designed to assist each volunteer in abiding by the mission, philosophy and policies of the National Hemophilia Foundation (NHF). Volunteers represent NHF and set examples through their ethical conduct and professionalism. In return, volunteers will be treated with respect and openness, be assigned responsibilities appropriate to their level of competence, and have access to leadership development opportunities.

Failure to follow this Volunteer Code of Conduct may result in suspension from volunteer duties and/or termination of the volunteer relationship with the National Hemophilia Foundation.

As an NHF Volunteer, I pledge that:

RESPECT FOR OTHERS

• I will treat staff, other volunteers, and members of the community with dignity, care and respect. I will be sensitive to and educate myself about individual and group differences, I will honor all persons rights to self-determination and agree to support people in making their own personal choices.
  
• I will comply with NHF’s policies and understand that NHF neither practices nor tolerates discrimination or harassment against any individual on the ground of race, color, religion, creed, gender, national origin, nationality or ancestry, citizenship, age, legally defined disability, genetic predisposition, or carrier status, marital or familial status, sexual or affectional orientation, veteran status or eligibility for service in the armed forces or any other characteristic protected by law.
  
• I will dress and act at all times in a manner which will be appropriate to my assigned responsibilities.
  
• I will not use profane, vulgar or obscene language, gesture, behavior or any other sign of disrespect towards anyone while participating in NHF activities.
  
• I will respect the property and material of NHF, hotels and other facilities used by NHF for its activities. I understand that I am responsible for safekeeping of NHF property as well as my own personal property.
  
• I agree to maintain respectful and professional relationship boundaries during the course of my volunteer work and agree to speak with my supervisor should any relationship develop that makes it difficult to remain objective and fulfill my volunteer obligations.

ACT PROFESSIONALLY AND TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR MY ACTIONS

• I will provide for the general welfare, health, and safety of any NHF participant in my charge during the course of my assigned duties.
  
• I will report any emergencies to the appropriate authorities after first taking immediate action to ensure the health and safety of the participants.
  
• I understand that being under the influence of alcohol or drugs may interfere with my ability to deliver service. I agree not to perform my volunteer duties while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, not to provide anyone with illegal substances or encourage their use, and not to participate with anyone in alcohol consumption to the point where my effectiveness is impaired. I will comply with all federal, state and local laws regarding alcohol and drugs. I understand that many state laws prohibit alcohol consumption by persons less than 21 years of age.
  
• I will use tobacco products only where legally permitted and refrain from the use of tobacco products while conducting or assisting in any NHF program or in other group situations that may glamorize such use in the eyes of young people.
  
• I understand that violence is not tolerated by NHF and I will use nonviolent techniques to resolve any conflicts that arise and seek assistance when needed. I understand that fighting, weapons of any kind or firearms are prohibited at any NHF functions.
  
• I will immediately report any unsafe behavior or unsafe condition to an NHF supervisor or Volunteer Coordinator.
  
• I will not engage in any type of inappropriate behavior, sexual activity, and/or verbal or physical abuse with staff, other volunteers, or the general community at NHF sponsored activities.

CONFIDENTIALITY

• I agree to consider information pertaining to medical conditions, family relations, phone numbers and addresses, sexual orientation, and other facts of a highly personal nature as confidential. I further understand that I may not disclose this information to any person who is not authorized by NHF to have access to such information without the specific permission of the individual concerned.

ENSURE A POSITIVE EXPERIENCE

• I will update myself on the responsibilities of my role and new information, attend scheduled meetings, and take advantage of opportunities to learn and share information. I agree to ask questions and get answers and follow through and complete all accepted tasks.
  
• I agree to participate in supervision or guidance by the NHF designated Volunteer Coordinator according to my assigned program. I understand that supervision guarantees accountability for the performance of assigned responsibilities, provides an opportunity for feedback and guidance, and assistance and support in my role as a volunteer.
  
• I agree to maintain the limits I set for myself with respect to the emotional and physical resources I am willing to provide to NHF.
  
• I understand that my training and education may limit my ability to serve constituents and recognize the need to ask for assistance or referral from my Volunteer Coordinator when appropriate.

CONFLICT OF INTEREST

• I commit to my understanding and upholding of NHF’S Conflict of Interest policy. I agree to discuss any potential conflict with my supervisor and commit to being truthful in all matters to do with my volunteer relationship with NHF.
  
• I agree to put organizational goals before my personal goals. I will think broadly and focus on the best interests of individuals with bleeding disorders.

I hereby certify that I have reviewed, understood and agreed to this Code of Conduct.