New England Pet Partners, Inc., Charity Organization 501(c)(3), #17597

Code of Ethics for Board Members - 2009

Goal:   To establish a set of principles and practices for New England Pet Partners, Inc. Board of Directors that will provide guidance and direction for board conduct and decision-making. 

Code:  Members of the Board of Directors of the New England Pet Partners, Inc. (NEPP) are committed to observing and promoting the highest standards of integrity and ethical conduct in the performance of their responsibilities on the board of New England Pet Partners, Inc.  Board members agree to accept this code as a minimum guideline for ethical conduct and shall:

Accountability

1. To represent myself and NEPP in an honest and ethical manner in accordance with NEPP’s by-laws, policies, procedures and goals.
2. To provide accurate, truthful advertising and representations concerning my qualifications, experience, performance of services. 
3. To act in an honest and ethical manner supporting the vision and goals of NEPP.
4. Abide by the professional ethics of your respective professions and organizations, when representing NEPP’s objectives and goals.
5. Exercise reasonable care, integrity, good business ethics and due diligence in organizational affairs.
6. Demonstrate a reference for all life and at all times, treat animals, people, and the environment with respect, dignity and sensitivity, maintaining the quality of life and experience for all involved.
7. Be informed and educated on all aspects and issues relating to the Delta Society, R.E.A.D. and NEPP with regard to training, maintaining cues and good status in compliance with standards and practice of Delta Society, R.E.A.D. and NEPP.
8. Comply with local, state and federal laws and New England Pet Partners, Inc. policies governing animal-assisted activities and animal-assisted therapy.
9. Fully disclose, at the earliest opportunity, information that may result in a perceived actual conflict of interest.
10. Fully disclose, at the earliest opportunity, information of fact that would have significance in board decision-making.

Professional Excellence

1. Maintain a professional level of courtesy, respect, and objectivity in all New England Pet Partners, Inc. activities.
2. Strive to uphold those practices and assist other members of the board in upholding the highest standards of conduct.

 Personal Gain

Exercise the powers invested for the good of all members of the organization rather than for his or her personal benefit.

 Equal Opportunity

Ensure the right of all members to appropriate and effective services without discrimination on the basis of the organization’s volunteer or staff make-up in respect to gender, sexual orientation, national origin, race, religion, age, political affiliation or disability, in accordance with all applicable legal and regulatory requirements.

Confidential Information

Respect the confidentiality of sensitive information known due to board service.

Collaboration and Cooperation

1. Respect the diversity of opinions as expressed or acted upon by New England Pet Partners, Inc. board, committees and membership.
2. Promote collaboration, cooperation, and partnership among association members.