Scope

This Code applies to all individuals representing the Organization, including board directors/officers, volunteers, contractors, and operational leaders (whether compensated or uncompensated).

Our Standard

The Art of Drinking Water exists to serve the public good through charitable and educational work. We lead with integrity, protect trust, and treat people with dignity. This Code of Ethics outlines the expectations for anyone representing the Organization.

Core Values

• Integrity: We do what is right, even when it is inconvenient.
• Respect: We honor people’s dignity, lived experience, and boundaries.
• Stewardship: We protect resources and make decisions that support long-term sustainability.
• Transparency: We communicate honestly and disclose conflicts of interest.
• Care: We act with compassion without enabling harm or exploitation.

Fiduciary & Governance Responsibilities (Board)

• Act in the best interest of the Organization and its mission
• Uphold fiduciary duties of care, loyalty, and obedience
• Attend meetings prepared and participate with independent judgment
• Maintain accurate records and support sound oversight

Confidentiality

Directors, volunteers, and operational leaders must protect confidential information, including donor information, internal deliberations, non-public financial data, and sensitive project materials.

Respectful Conduct

• We treat all individuals with respect and professionalism
• We do not discriminate or harass
• We do not use the Organization’s platform to shame, intimidate, or retaliate
• We resolve disagreements with maturity, clarity, and care

Conflicts of Interest & Recusal

Any actual, potential, or perceived conflict must be disclosed promptly. Individuals must recuse themselves from discussion and voting when required, in accordance with the Organization’s Conflict of Interest Policy.

Compensation Separation (Governance vs. Operations)

Use of Funds & Resources

• We use Organization funds only for legitimate Organization purposes
• We do not approve payments that create private benefit or personal gain outside approved agreements
• We maintain accurate documentation for expenses and reimbursements

Public Representation & Media

Individuals representing the Organization should communicate in a way that protects the mission’s integrity, tone, and trust. Public statements should be aligned with approved messaging and not misrepresent the Organization’s work.

Reporting Concerns

If a concern arises regarding ethics, safety, misuse of funds, or conduct, it should be reported to the President and/or Treasurer for review. Reports will be handled with discretion and without retaliation.

Violations

Violations of this Code of Ethics may result in corrective action, removal from volunteer/operational roles, or removal from the Board, consistent with the bylaws and applicable law.

Acknowledgement

I acknowledge that I have received and read the Organization’s Code of Ethics. I understand the expectations described and agree to uphold these standards while representing The Art of Drinking Water.