Optimist International

Code of Conduct for Optimist Members and Employees (ICD-13)

Scope

This Code of Conduct applies to all Optimist International members, officers, board members, and employees (collectively, “OI Personnel”) when participating in Optimist-related activities, programs, events, and operations.

Purpose

This Code of Conduct sets standards for respectful, responsible, and appropriate behavior by OI Personnel. Its purpose is to support a safe, inclusive, and ethical environment that reflects the mission of Optimist International (OI), the principles of the Optimist Creed, and OI’s Core Values.

OI is committed to protecting the safety and well-being of youth and to ensuring that all individuals are treated with dignity and respect.

Standards of Conduct

OI Personnel must conduct themselves in a manner that reflects positively on Optimist International and must treat others with courtesy, respect, and consideration at all times.

While working with youth or participating in Optimist activities involving youth, OI Personnel must not use alcohol, tobacco, illegal substances, or recreational drugs.

OI Personnel must not share, display, or send explicit, offensive, or otherwise inappropriate materials or communications.

OI Personnel must not use terms of endearment or affectionate nicknames when addressing a child.

OI Personnel must not engage in unwelcome or inappropriate physical contact with any individual, including children and other OI Personnel. As a best practice, adults should ask permission before any physical contact, such as hugging.

OI Personnel are expected to maintain appropriate personal boundaries and to be respectful in their language, behavior, and use of personal space at all times.

Membership Eligibility and Youth Protection

Any current or prospective member who has been convicted of a criminal offense involving moral turpitude, including theft, fraud, acts of violence, or conduct that endangers a youth, is not eligible for membership.

Any member with pending criminal charges involving moral turpitude or conduct that endangers a youth will have their membership suspended until the charges are resolved.

Non-Discrimination

Optimist International is committed to providing an inclusive and respectful environment. OI and its affiliated Clubs must not discriminate in membership or organizational activities on the basis of race, color, creed, national origin, age, sex, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

Reporting Responsibilities

OI Personnel who become aware of a suspected violation of this Code of Conduct must promptly report the concern to the OI Executive Director. If the concern involves the Executive Director or a volunteer, it must be reported to the International President.

Reports may be made verbally or in writing. All reports will be taken seriously and investigated promptly, with appropriate confidentiality. Retaliation against any individual who makes a good faith report is strictly prohibited.

Violations of this Code of Conduct may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment or removal from membership.

Approval and Review

Board Approved: March 2003; March 2005; June 2016; March 2019; May 2023; August 2024; September 2024

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