Expectations of Board Members

Code of Ethics

To abide by the Code of Ethics adopted by and for this Board.  The Code of Ethics exists as an honor code and guideline of conduct for Board members.

Confidentiality

To respect the confidence of persons involved with this Program: other Board members, staff, volunteers and clients.  This is not to restrict you from discussion and promoting the Program but to eliminate discussion of matters concerning the internal matters of the Program, its Board, its clients and staff with members of the community.

Responsibility

To carry out the assigned duties and responsibilities as a member of the Board.  The Program depends on your commitment of time and energy.  Consistent attendance at regularly scheduled Board and Committee meetings provides stability to the Program and enhances its productivity.

Acceptance

As a matter of principle and by law, all forms of discrimination will not be tolerated.  We commit ourselves to see all people as individuals and to respecting and treating one another fairly, regardless of sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, age of ability, religion or economic status.

Cooperation

The employed staff remains accountable for the work being done.  If you encounter any problems regarding the Program, please contact the Executive Director or Board leaders to address the problem promptly.  We, as members of the Board, have the responsibility to maintain a professional standard of cooperation with each other and with staff that we have hired to carry out PAVSA’s mission.

Communication

Communication is key to accomplishing the above expectations and we commit ourselves to open, clear and direct discussion and decision making.

Board Meeting

Board members are expected to attend monthly Board meetings which are held on the third Thursday evening of each month.  It is a Board member’s responsibility to make Board leaders aware of absences.  Board members may also be asked to attend special and/or emergency Board meetings in addition to regular monthly meetings.  Attendance at these is just as important and requires notice of absence.  Attendance at meetings of special committees of which you are a member is also expected.  Two consecutive failures to notify Board leaders of absence from a Board meeting is grounds for dismissal from the Board.  A letter will be sent to the Board member in question prior to the meeting at which a potential dismissal vote will be taken.  That member will be given opportunity to address the Board prior to the vote if she/he so desires.

Conflict of Interest

If you choose to apply for a position as a staff member of PAVSA, a letter of resignation from Board membership should accompany your resume.  Should you not choose to accept the position or are not selected as staff, a one-year waiting period will go into effect before reapplying for Board membership unless a unanimous decision by Board and staff prevails.