Code of Conduct

1. Our Mission and Values

Amani Home is committed to supporting refugees and displaced persons on their journey toward empowerment, dignity, and self-sufficiency. This Code of Conduct reflects our core values and defines the standards of behavior expected from all members of our community, including staff, volunteers, board members, partners, and participants.

2. Standards of Conduct for All Members

Respectful Interactions

We are committed to interactions characterized by:

• Listening actively and with empathy to understand different perspectives
• Speaking with kindness and avoiding dismissive or derogatory language
• Respecting personal boundaries and cultural differences
• Addressing conflicts constructively and seeking resolution

Professional Behavior

• Acting with integrity and honesty in all dealings
• Fulfilling commitments and responsibilities
• Maintaining professionalism in appearance and communication
• Being punctual and reliable

Inclusive Language and Behavior

• Using inclusive and non-discriminatory language
• Respecting pronouns and names as individuals identify themselves
• Avoiding stereotypes and generalizations
• Recognizing and valuing the experiences and expertise of all individuals

3. Anti-Discrimination and Anti-Harassment

Amani Home does not tolerate any form of discrimination or harassment based on:

• Race, ethnicity, or national origin
• Gender, gender identity, or sexual orientation
• Religion or belief
• Age
• Disability or health status
• Political opinion
• Socioeconomic status or refugee/migration status

What Constitutes Harassment

Harassment includes any unwelcome conduct, comment, gesture, or action that:

• Is based on any protected characteristic
• Is sexual in nature or creates a hostile environment
• Is intended to intimidate, demean, or offend
• Involves repeated unwelcome contact after being asked to stop

4. Child Safeguarding

All members of the Amani Home community are committed to protecting children from harm:

• We maintain appropriate professional boundaries with children
• We do not engage in any form of physical, emotional, or sexual abuse
• We respect children's privacy and confidentiality
• We ensure all interactions with children are transparent and witnessed where possible
• We report concerns about child safety immediately to designated safeguarding officers

5. Confidentiality and Privacy

• We protect the privacy of all individuals in our programs and services
• We do not disclose personal information without appropriate consent
• We handle sensitive information about trauma, status, or circumstances with care and confidentiality
• We use information only for the purposes for which it was provided
• We respect the right of individuals not to be photographed, recorded, or publicly identified without consent

6. Power and Abuse Prevention

We are committed to preventing abuse of power within our organization:

• Staff and volunteers do not exploit their position for personal gain
• We do not misuse organizational resources
• We do not form inappropriate relationships with program participants
• We do not solicit favors or gifts from those we serve
• We maintain professional distance and appropriate boundaries

7. Substance and Alcohol Use

• We maintain a drug-free workplace and program environment
• Illegal substances are prohibited at all organizational activities
• Alcohol is prohibited during working hours and in program settings
• Individuals under the influence are not permitted to interact with program participants

8. Financial and Resource Integrity

• We use organizational resources only for approved purposes
• We do not engage in fraud, embezzlement, or financial misconduct
• We maintain transparent financial records and practices
• We report any financial irregularities to management immediately

9. Conflicts of Interest

• We disclose any personal interests that might conflict with organizational decisions
• We avoid situations where personal gain might compromise our judgment
• We do not accept bribes, gifts, or favors that could influence decisions
• We recuse ourselves from decisions where we have personal stakes

10. Expectations for Specific Roles

Staff Members

• Complete mandatory safeguarding and code of conduct training
• Undergo background checks as required
• Maintain professional development and competency
• Model behavior that reflects organizational values

Volunteers

• Commit to understanding and following this code of conduct
• Participate in orientation and training programs
• Work under appropriate supervision
• Report concerns through proper channels

Program Participants

• Treat fellow participants and staff with respect
• Participate in programs in good faith
• Respect organizational facilities and property
• Report safety concerns

11. Reporting Violations

We encourage reporting of suspected code of conduct violations. Reports can be made to:

• Your direct supervisor or manager
• The Executive Director
• The Safeguarding Officer: safeguarding@amanihome.org
• Anonymous hotline: [Contact details]

We are committed to investigating all reports promptly and confidentially. We prohibit retaliation against those who report in good faith.

12. Consequences of Violations

Violations of this code may result in:

• Verbal or written warning
• Training or counseling requirements
• Suspension of privileges or activities
• Termination of employment or volunteer service
• Referral to law enforcement for illegal conduct

The severity of consequences will depend on the nature, severity, and context of the violation.

13. Conflict Resolution Process

For interpersonal conflicts or concerns:

1. Address concerns directly with the involved party (if safe to do so)
2. Involve a supervisor or manager for mediation
3. Request formal conflict resolution process if needed
4. Appeal to leadership if dissatisfied with resolution

14. Training and Education

We provide regular training on:

• This Code of Conduct and expectations
• Safeguarding and protection principles
• Trauma-informed approaches
• Cultural competency and inclusion
• Reporting procedures and support available

15. Commitment and Accountability

By participating in Amani Home's programs, services, or activities, all individuals agree to uphold this Code of Conduct. We believe that together, we create an environment of dignity, safety, and empowerment for all.

16. Contact Information

Amani Home - Code of Conduct Inquiries
Email: conduct@amanihome.org
Safeguarding Officer: safeguarding@amanihome.org
Phone: +254 722 54809
Address: Nairobi, Kenya