1. Purpose
This Code of Ethics and Stewardship Policy serves to guide the moral, spiritual, and practical conduct of all members, officers, volunteers, donors, and affiliated individuals of the S.A.F.E. Foundation. Rooted in Orthodox Christian tradition and a commitment to righteousness, this policy ensures that all actions reflect integrity, transparency, humility, and service to God and neighbor.
2. Foundational Principles
All conduct and decisions within the Foundation shall be governed by the following moral and spiritual principles:
– Orthodox Christian Faith and Teaching: All actions and initiatives must align with the dogmas, canons, and ethical teachings of the Eastern Orthodox Church.
– Accountability Before God: Every trustee, officer, volunteer, and donor acts in the fear of God, mindful of the Day of Judgment.
– Ascetic Service: We reject luxury, waste, or personal gain from our labors. Simplicity, philanthropia, and self-denial is our guiding ethos.
– Transparency and Honesty: All communication, finances, and dealings must be open, clear, and honest.
– Stewardship and Frugality: Every donation and resource is a sacred trust, not to be misused or squandered.
– Respect for Persons: All human beings, including staff, beneficiaries, donors, and the public, must be treated with dignity, regardless of status or role.
3. Ethical Conduct
All members and agents of the Foundation must:
– Act with honesty, integrity, and humility in all matters.
– Avoid conflicts of interest. Where a conflict exists or may arise, it must be immediately disclosed in writing to the Foundation president or board.
– Not exploit their position for personal, political, or financial gain.
– Abstain from gossip, slander, or divisiveness, especially regarding Church hierarchy or fellow members.
– Report any known or suspected abuse, fraud, or unethical behavior to the Foundation board without delay.
– Refrain from engaging in any activity contrary to the Orthodox faith and tradition.
4. Financial Stewardship
4.1 Use of Funds
– All funds shall be used exclusively for the charitable and religious purposes for which they were donated.
– Disbursements must be pre-approved by the board or a designated officer with documented justification.
– No personal use of Foundation funds is ever permitted.
4.2 Recordkeeping and Reporting
– Financial records must be accurate, complete, and up-to-date at all times.
– Annual financial reports will be made available to donors and members upon request.
– All donations must be receipted and tracked with transparency.
– No anonymous internal cash transactions are permitted; all cash donations must be logged and deposited as soon as possible.
4.3 Auditing and Oversight
– The Foundation shall conduct an internal financial review annually.
– External audits may be arranged periodically at the discretion of the board or by donor request (if reasonable).
– Any irregularities will be investigated and documented with appropriate action taken.
5. Confidentiality
All officers and volunteers must protect confidential donor information, private personal data of beneficiaries, unless required by law. Internal deliberations must be kept confidential unless disclosure is required by law or by ethics and commitments. No personal data shall be sold or transferred to third parties.
6. Respect for Orthodox Hierarchy and Tradition
All actions of the Foundation shall maintain due respect toward canonical Orthodox bishops, elders, and clergy. While the Foundation is lay-led, it shall not oppose or act contrary to the Church or its legitimate authorities. If any disagreement arises regarding doctrine or ecclesiastical matters, it shall be resolved through consultation with a recognized Orthodox spiritual father.
7. Conflict of Interest Policy
Anyone in a position of authority or decision-making must:
– Disclose any personal or financial interest in a matter under consideration.
– Abstain from voting or influencing the outcome of any such matter.
– Understand that violation of this may result in removal and legal consequences.
8. Discipline and Enforcement
Violations of this policy may result in:
– A formal warning.
– Removal from office or position.
– Public disclosure (in cases of fraud, abuse, or theft).
– Legal action where applicable.
The board, led by the President of the Foundation, shall discern all disciplinary matters.
9. Acknowledgement
All members, officers, volunteers, and employees must read, understand, and sign this policy annually. Ignorance of its provisions shall not be an excuse.
10. Amendment Clause
This policy may be reviewed and amended as necessary by a vote of the Foundation board. All amendments must remain in harmony with Orthodox Christian faith and tradition.
Conclusion:
This Code exists not merely for legality but as a confession of accountability before God. Let all who serve this Foundation do so with purity of heart, sound conscience, and the fear of Christ.