Interfaith Hospitality Network of Greater Worcester
Program Volunteer Code of Conduct

In order to protect volunteers and program participants:

1. At no time during the program shall staff or volunteers be alone with children where others cannot observe them.
2. At no time during the program shall staff or volunteers diaper children or supervise children when they are using the restroom facilities.
3. Staff and children shall not abuse children. Any type of abuse will not be tolerated and is cause for immediate dismissal, including:
a. Physical abuse-Strike, spank, shake, or slap
b. Verbal abuse-Humiliate, degrade, or threaten
c. Sexual abuse-Inappropriate touch or verbal exchange
d. Mental abuse-Shaming, withholding love, or cruelty
e. Neglect-Withholding food, water, basic care, etc.
4. Staff and volunteers shall respond to program participants with respect and consideration and treat all participants equally regardless of sex, race, religion, or culture.
5. Staff and volunteers must appear clean, neat, and appropriately attired.
6. Using, possessing, or being under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs is prohibited.
7. Profanity, inappropriate jokes, sharing intimate details of one's personal life or any kind of harassment in the presence of program participants is prohibited.
8. Staff and volunteers may not be alone with children enrolled in the program outside of the host site or IHN Day Center. This includes babysitting, sleepover, and inviting families into your home. Any exceptions require prior written explanation before the fact and are subject to the Program Director's approval.
9. Staff and volunteers are not to transport program participants in private vehicles, with the exception of emergency room visits with the Program Director's prior approval.