FHN Code of Ethics Policy
1. Purpose
The purpose of this Code of Ethics Policy is to establish clear standards of ethical conduct for all individuals associated with Five Horsemen Nonprofit, Inc. This policy promotes integrity, accountability, transparency, and respect in all of our actions and decisions. It serves as a guiding framework for board members, officers, employees, volunteers, partners, and representatives in fulfilling the Organization’s mission to empower underserved youth and communities through education, innovation, and opportunity.
II. Core Values
The foundation of our ethical principles is built upon our core values:
1. Integrity – Acting honestly and ethically in all relationships and transactions.
2. Accountability – Responsibility for our actions, decisions, and impact on the communities we serve.
3. Respect – Treating all individuals with dignity, fairness, and compassion.
4. Transparency – Operating with openness in communication and in the use of funds and resources.
5. Collaboration – Partnering effectively with community members, sponsors, and organizations to achieve common goals.
6. Equity and Inclusion – Ensuring fair treatment, equal access, and respect for diversity in all programs and initiatives.
7. Service Excellence – Striving for excellence in delivering programs that make a lasting, positive difference.
III. Ethical Standards of Conduct
All representatives of Five Horsemen Nonprofit, Inc. are expected to adhere to the following standards of behavior:
1. Compliance with Laws and Regulations
We comply with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and organizational policies governing nonprofit operations, fundraising, financial reporting, and charitable activities.
2. Honesty and Integrity
All actions and communications—whether internal or external—must be truthful, fair, and free from deception. Misrepresentation of facts, credentials, or the Organization’s activities is strictly prohibited.
3. Accountability in Stewardship
All resources, including donations, grants, and assets, shall be used solely to advance the mission and goals of the Organization. Misuse or misappropriation of funds, property, or confidential information is not tolerated.
4. Conflict of Interest
Board members, employees, and volunteers must avoid situations where personal interests conflict—or appear to conflict—with the interests of the Organization.
Individuals must disclose any potential conflicts to the Board of Directors.
No one may use their position for personal gain or to benefit family members, friends, or business associates.
Decisions must always prioritize the best interests of the Organization and the communities it serves.
5. Confidentiality
Members must protect the privacy of sensitive organizational, donor, and participant information. Confidential data should not be shared outside the Organization unless authorized or required by law.
6. Professional Conduct
Everyone representing the Organization is expected to conduct themselves with professionalism, courtesy, and respect at all times, particularly when interacting with youth, families, community partners, or the public.
7. Non-Discrimination and Inclusion
Five Horsemen Nonprofit, Inc. prohibits discrimination and harassment in any form based on race, color, ethnicity, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, religion, or socioeconomic status. We are committed to fostering an inclusive and equitable environment for all.
8. Protection of Assets
Organizational assets—both tangible and intangible—must be utilized responsibly and for their intended purposes. This includes facilities, technology, intellectual property, and branding materials.
9. Responsible Communication and Representation
Public statements, media interactions, and social media activity representing the Organization must reflect professionalism, respect, and alignment with our mission and values.
10. Commitment to Youth Safety and Empowerment
All staff, volunteers, and partners working with youth must adhere to the Organization’s Youth Protection Guidelines, ensuring safe, nurturing, and empowering program environments.
IV. Governance and Leadership Integrity
The Board of Directors and Executive Leadership have a fiduciary duty to act in the best interests of the Organization. They must:
Exercise prudent judgment and due diligence in decision-making.
Ensure sound financial management and accountability.
Avoid self-dealing or conflicts that compromise objectivity.
Promote ethical behavior and set an example for all members of the Organization.
V. Reporting and Addressing Ethical Violations
1. Responsibility to Report
All representatives of Five Horsemen Nonprofit, Inc. share a duty to report suspected violations of this Code, including unethical, fraudulent, or illegal conduct.
2. Reporting Procedure
Reports may be made confidentially to:
The Executive Director or Board Chair, or An independent ethics review committee designated by the Board.
3. Non-Retaliation
The Organization strictly prohibits retaliation against anyone who, in good faith, reports misconduct or participates in an investigation.
4. Investigation and Resolution
All reports will be promptly reviewed and investigated. Confirmed violations may result in corrective actions, including retraining, disciplinary measures, or termination, as appropriate.
VI. Ethical Fundraising and Donor Relations
All fundraising activities will reflect honesty, transparency, and respect for donor intent.
Donors will receive accurate information about how their contributions are used and the measurable outcomes of funded programs.
The Organization abides by the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) Code of Ethical Standards.
VII. Commitment to Continuous Improvement
Five Horsemen Nonprofit, Inc. is committed to continual review and improvement of its ethical standards. This Code will be reviewed annually by the Board of Directors and updated as necessary to reflect evolving best practices in nonprofit governance.
VIII. Acknowledgment
All board members, employees, and volunteers must read, understand, and sign this Code of Ethics Policy annually as a condition of their continued association with Five Horsemen Nonprofit, Inc.
Approved by the Board of Directors
Five Horsemen Nonprofit, Inc.
Atlanta, Georgia 30326
Date of Adoption: 12/31/2024