INTERNATIONAL HOUSE OF RHODE ISLAND

CODE OF CONDUCT

Scope

The Code of Conduct applies to all IHRI members, employees, volunteers and Board members. Failure to adhere to the Code may result in disciplinary action, including adverse employment action, revocation of membership/Board membership or termination of residency at IHRI.

Statement of Principles

We acknowledge that everything we do in connection with our association with IHRI is to be measured against the highest possible standards of ethical conduct. Commitment to our values and the highest ethical standards enables us to hire the best people, recruit the best membership and volunteers, live collaboratively as residents and/or engage mindfully as the organization’s Board of Directors.  Respect for each other and the cultures that share our space underpins our existence. Accordingly:

  • WE STRIVE AT ALL TIMES TO TREAT EACH OTHER WITH RESPECT: We recognize the inherent dignity and worth of every person at IHRI. In language, personal interactions and the treatment of property not our own, we treat others as we would wish to be treated.  

  • WE ACKNOWLEDGE, OBSERVE, RESPECT AND LEARN FROM OUR DIFFERENCES:  Although we may have different backgrounds, viewpoints, ideas cultures and traditions, we appreciate our differences and seek to understand one another.

  • WE SEEK TO FURTHER THE LEARNING AND GROWTH OF EACH MEMBER OF OUR COMMUNITY: We affirm that we are here, first and foremost, to grow from our interpersonal interactions. Our own conduct will be of key importance in the realization of our learning, enjoyment and growth.

These principles derive from federal, state, and local laws and regulations, IHRI policies and procedures, contractual and grant obligations, and generally accepted principles of ethical and respectful conduct.  Accordingly, we commit to follow this Code, to act with integrity and honesty in all matters, and to take responsibility and accountability for our actions.

Respect For The Rights And Dignity Of Others

IHRI is committed to a policy of equal treatment, opportunity, and respect in its relations with its members, employees, volunteers, students, and others who come into contact with IHRI.  Each individual is prohibited from: (a)  discriminating on the basis of race, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender and/or gender identity or expression, marital or parental status, national origin, cultural identity, citizenship status, veteran or military status, age, disability, and any other legally protected status; (b) physically assaulting, emotionally abusing, threatening or harassing anyone; (c) using IHRI for solicitation or proselytizing, overt or covert, in any form, including, but not limited to political or religious causes or persuasions; (d) disorderly conduct, which may include, but is not limited to, disturbing the peace or progress of events; and (e) conduct that interferes with respectful interaction, learning or the mission of IHRI.

Conducting Business Practices With Honesty And Integrity

Every employee, volunteer, and Board member is expected to conduct all business with visitors, vendors, competitors, and the academic and other communities served by IHRI on its behalf with honesty and integrity. This duty includes, but is not limited to: adherence to federal and state anti-fraud and referral prohibitions in dealing with vendors and referral sources; adherence to all laws; and protecting and preserving IHRI property and assets--including proprietary intellectual property, buildings, equipment, supplies, and funds.

Concern for Health and Safety; Respecting The Environment Of International House Of Rhode Island

Every member, employee, volunteer, Board member and resident is expected, in the performance of his or her duties, membership and/or residency to comply with all laws and regulations which govern health and/or safety and to make every reasonable effort to ensure that members, employees, volunteers, students, visitors and other users of the facilities at IHRI are protected from undue health risks and unsafe conditions.  Prohibited actions shall include:

  • Actions endangering or threatening health or safety;

  • Intentional possession of a dangerous article or substance that may be used to injure or cause discomfort to any person;

  • Intentionally or recklessly starting a fire;

  • Misuse of or tampering with fire safety equipment (e.g., fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, exit signs and pull stations);

Reporting

Employees, members, residents and volunteers should promptly report of any violations of this Code, or any other instances of reasonably suspected fraud or malfeasance, to the Executive Director or the President of the Board.  If anyone is not comfortable reporting an incident to the Executive Director or President, the individual may report the matter directly to any member of the Board of Directors.  No individual shall retaliate, in any manner, against an individual who reports a perceived violation of this Code.  Any report made in bad faith shall be subject to potential disciplinary action.