Conflict of Interest Policy

Purpose

This policy ensures that decisions made on behalf of VONet are free from personal or financial influence and always reflect the best interests of the organization and the communities we serve.

1. Who This Applies To

This policy applies to:

• Members of the Advisory Council
• The Director and any paid staff
• Volunteers involved in financial, legal, or strategic decisions
• Contractors or vendors with decision-making authority

2. What is a Conflict of Interest?

A conflict of interest occurs when a person’s personal, financial, or professional interests could interfere with their duty to act in the best interest of VONet.

Examples Include:

• Recommending a business you or a close relative own for a paid contract
• Voting on a decision that affects a group you're personally involved with
• Using inside information from VONet for personal gain

3. Disclosure

• All potential conflicts must be disclosed as soon as they arise.
• Advisory Council members and the Director must complete an annual conflict disclosure form.
• If unsure whether a situation qualifies as a conflict, disclose it anyway.

4. Handling Conflicts

• When a conflict is disclosed, the person involved must recuse themselves from related discussions and votes.
• The Advisory Council will determine whether further action is needed, including reassignment of duties or declining opportunities.
• All decisions will be documented in meeting minutes or internal records.

5. Fiscal Sponsor Authority

If VONet is operating under the umbrella of a fiscal sponsor, any conflict of interest policies or procedures established by that sponsor will take precedence over this document in the event of a conflict. All VONet members subject to this policy must also comply with any additional or more restrictive conflict-of-interest rules set by the fiscal sponsor.

6. Violations

• Failure to disclose a known conflict may result in removal from a leadership role or termination of volunteer or contractor involvement.
• VONet reserves the right to review and investigate any suspected conflict of interest.

7. Transparency

• VONet maintains a culture of transparency and accountability in all decision-making.
• This policy supports community trust and helps ensure VONet stays aligned with its mission and values.