Conflict of Interest Policy
Last Updated: January 1, 2025
Purpose
OneCity for Recovery, Inc. is committed to maintaining the highest level of integrity and transparency in all its activities. This Conflict of Interest Policy aims to ensure that all directors, officers, employees, and volunteers act in the organization’s best interests and avoid situations where personal, professional, or financial interests may conflict with those of OneCity for Recovery, Inc.
Scope
This policy applies to all members of the Board of Directors, officers, employees, and volunteers. It includes situations that could create a conflict of interest or the appearance of one, impacting the organization’s credibility and effectiveness.
Definition of Conflict of Interest
A conflict of interest arises when an individual’s personal, professional, or financial interests conflict with their duty to act in OneCity for Recovery, Inc.’s best interests. Examples include, but are not limited to:
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Financial interests in an entity that does business with OneCity for Recovery, Inc.
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Receiving personal gifts or favors that may influence decision-making.
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Employment or consulting roles with vendors or organizations that might compete with or have a relationship with OneCity for Recovery, Inc.
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Situations where family members or close associates benefit from decisions made by an individual in their role with the organization.
Duty to Disclose
Any individual covered under this policy must promptly disclose any real or potential conflict of interest to their supervisor, or in the case of Board members, to the Board Chair. The disclosure should be made in writing and provide full details of the conflict or potential conflict.
Procedures for Addressing a Conflict of Interest
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Disclosure and Recusal: Upon identifying a potential conflict, the individual must disclose the conflict and, where appropriate, recuse themselves from related discussions and decisions.
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Board Review: If a conflict of interest involves a Board member, the matter will be reviewed by a designated committee or by the Board Chair. The board may decide to exclude the individual from discussions or decisions related to the conflict.
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Resolution: The Board or relevant committee may determine a resolution, which may include termination of the conflicting relationship, removal from a particular decision, or other appropriate actions.
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Documentation: All disclosed conflicts and resolutions will be recorded in the meeting minutes or appropriate organizational records to ensure transparency.
Prohibited Actions and Gifts
Individuals must refrain from actions or decisions that could benefit them personally at the expense of OneCity for Recovery, Inc. Individuals must also avoid accepting gifts, services, or personal favors from any person or entity that might influence or appear to influence their responsibilities.
Annual Conflict of Interest Statement
All Board members, officers, and designated staff are required to review this policy and sign a Conflict of Interest Statement annually, affirming their understanding and compliance with the policy.
Compliance with Ohio State Laws
OneCity for Recovery, Inc. adheres to Ohio state laws regarding conflicts of interest and nonprofit governance, including compliance with the Ohio Revised Code, which mandates fiduciary responsibility and conflict of interest disclosures for nonprofit Board members and officers.
Violations of Conflict of Interest Policy
If the Board or Executive Team has reasonable cause to believe an individual has failed to disclose a conflict of interest. In that case, it may undertake corrective action, which may include suspension, termination, or other appropriate actions.
Review and Amendments
The Conflict of Interest Policy will be reviewed annually to ensure compliance with legal standards and best practices in nonprofit governance. Changes to the policy require approval from the Board of Directors.