Free Board Code of Conduct Template
BOARD CODE OF CONDUCT
I. General Statement of Expectation
As stewards of [Your Nonprofit Organization]'s mission and values, board members are expected to uphold the highest standards of ethical behavior, integrity, and accountability in all aspects of their roles and responsibilities.
II. Integrity of Records and Public Reporting
A. Accuracy
Board members must ensure the accuracy and completeness of all records, reports, and financial statements produced by [Your Nonprofit Organization], providing transparent and reliable information to stakeholders.
B. Compliance
Board members are responsible for ensuring that all public reporting, including financial disclosures, regulatory filings, and communications with stakeholders, comply with applicable laws, regulations, and ethical standards.
III. Conflicts of Interest
A.Disclosure
Board members must promptly disclose any actual or potential conflicts of interest to the board, including financial interests, relationships, or affiliations that may influence their decision-making process.
B. Recusal
In cases where a conflict of interest exists, board members should abstain from participating in discussions or decisions related to the matter at hand, allowing other board members to make impartial judgments in the best interests of [Your Nonprofit Organization].
IV. Corporate Opportunities
A. Priority
Board members must prioritize the interests of [Your Nonprofit Organization] when presented with corporate opportunities or potential business ventures that may benefit the organization.
B. Fairness
Board members should avoid taking advantage of corporate opportunities for personal gain or diverting resources away from [Your Nonprofit Organization] to pursue individual interests.
V. Confidentiality
A. Protection
Board members must maintain the confidentiality of sensitive information discussed during board meetings or obtained through their roles, respecting the privacy and trust of fellow board members, staff, volunteers, donors, and other stakeholders.
B. Disclosure Limitation
Confidential information should not be disclosed to unauthorized individuals or entities without proper authorization, except as required by law or organizational policy.
VI. Board Interaction with the Internet Community and Media
A. Representation
When representing [Your Nonprofit Organization] online or in the media, board members should accurately and respectfully convey the organization's mission, values, and objectives.
B. Transparency
Board members should exercise caution when engaging with the Internet community and media, ensuring that their communications are truthful, constructive, and consistent with the organization's goals and messaging.
VII. Acting in Personal Capacity
A. Clarity
Board members must clearly distinguish between their personal opinions and official positions when speaking or acting in their capacities, particularly on matters related to [Your Nonprofit Organization].
B. Responsibility
While board members have the right to express personal views, they should avoid making statements or taking actions that may create confusion or misrepresentation about the organization's stance or policies.
VIII. Conclusion
By adhering to the principles outlined in this Code of Conduct, board members demonstrate their commitment to upholding the values and mission of [Your Nonprofit Organization], fostering a culture of integrity, transparency, and accountability in all aspects of governance and decision-making.
