1.
CATHERINE BIEWER
BUSINESS ETHICS POLICY
10/13/2014
BS460

2. Renew GR Code of Ethics and Business Conduct
Effective: October 13th, 2014
Mission Statement
Renew GR is a nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering environmental stewardship within
the greater Grand Rapids area. Reliant upon donations and government funding, we staff an
excellent team who plan, organize, and host events which train, inspire, and equip Grand Rapids
citizens to become eco­friendly and actively participate in renewing the local environment and
community.
Introduction
Although our organization is small, there is nevertheless the risk of corruption within any
system. Renew GR is committed to abiding by all laws and regulations, as well as implementing
further safeguards to ensure ethical conduct.
All Renew GR staff are expected to read and sign this ethics policy. If any staff is aware of an
unethical situation, even if not specifically mentioned in this policy, they are obligated to report
it to either their supervisor or a higher­in­charge if there is a conflict of interests, without fear of
repercussion.
THIS CODE APPLIES TO EVERYONE.
ETHICAL ISSUES:
1. Use of Funds
All funds received are to be delegated towards the mission of Renew GR. Funds are
never to be used for:
○ personal pleasure
○ bribing outside parties
○ supporting political agendas unrelated to the mission
To do so would be to violate donor trust. If you have a question about a particular
situation, please ask your supervisor.

3.
2. Compensation
All staff receive a pre­determined livable wage and are reimbursed for any appropriate
personal resources used for events or transportation costs to and from outside events.
Transportation means should be the most efficient and least costly.​ ​There is an employee
reimbursement form which is reviewed by the event supervisor. ​Abuse of the
reimbursement procedure is not tolerated.
No one staff receives a substantially greater salary merely due to title. It is important
that staff are on an equal level and working together as a team.
Volunteer is an unpaid position, but receives reimbursement for any appropriate
personal resources used for events or transportation costs to and from outside events.
Transportation means should be the most efficient and least costly. There is a volunteer
reimbursement form which is reviewed by the event supervisor. ​Abuse of the
reimbursement procedure is not tolerated.
3. Use of Computers
Computers at Renew, GR are not to be used:
● for any illegal activities;
● to view or communicate obscene, hateful, discriminatory or harassing material;
● for an outside business;
● for gambling;
● for uploading or downloading software in violation of its copyright and uploading
or downloading; or
● software that is subject to export controls (Unisys 12).
Internet radio such as Pandora or Spotify is to be allowed for focusing­purposes,
when appropriate, with the use of earphones. Be aware of your surroundings and
respect your coworkers.
4. Social Media and Communication
Social media is a growing concern within every organization. While Renew GR, Inc.

4. respects the privacy of every employee, volunteer, and member, ​one must be cautioned
that email and social media use will be monitored when on organization computers.
Social networking sites such as Facebook and Twitter are to only be accessed on
organization computers during designated breaks. When accessing these sites, any
content can and will be monitored. Please use caution when accessing these sites.
Inappropriate online comments about our organization, coworkers, affiliates, or event
attendees unjustly damages images and may lead to disciplinary action.
Use of smartphones for purposes unrelated to work during working hours is prohibited.
Only cases of emergency or extreme necessity is it acceptable to make calls unrelated to
work during working hours. Please consult your supervisor if you are unsure if your case
qualifies.
5. Behavior
5.1. At Events
All event staff are to act within all legal boundaries. They are to be courteous and helpful
to all guests, regardless of race, religion, disability, political affiliation, gender
orientation, or sexual orientation.
Use of phones at events is for event and business­related purposes only.
If you are manning a table at the event, you are responsible for all valuable goods. Do not
leave the table unattended. Any cash transactions are your responsibility and there is a
cash box provided to store as well as paperwork to record.
5.2. Outside of Work
All employees are expected to represent Renew GR outside of the work place. This is not
limited to refraining from illegal actions. As stated before, social networking may be
monitored and any negative image which does not comply with Renew GR’s mission
statement and ethics policy can be used against you.

5. 6. Political Affiliation
6.1. Organization
Renew GR is not affiliated with any political party. However, Renew GR can and will
voice opinions on current political events and legislature concerning environmental issues.
6.2. Personal
Renew GR staff can be affiliated with any political party they choose. However, if the
organization finds that an employee’s personal political stance and actions are in direct
conflict with our mission statement, the employee will be confronted.
7. Whistle Blowing
Employees are encouraged to whistle blow internally. An anonymous feedback form to
the Head Supervisor is available for any concerns within your department.
However, if this is a grave enough issue which has gotten out of hand completely to the
highest positions, external whistleblowing is encouraged.
Your job is always guaranteed in any case of whistleblowing.
8. Recycling & Composting
Recycling and composting is important and expected in the office. Failure to recycle and
compost per the stated instructions can result in a verbal warning from your supervisor.
After two verbal warnings, you will be written up. After two write ups, a meeting will be
scheduled with HR to discuss the issue.