Code of Ethics
CSF is guided by a simple principle: integrity in every action. Our purpose is to protect children and strengthen systems of care by maintaining the highest ethical, professional, and compliance standards. Every employee, contractor, and partner is expected to uphold these standards in their work, relationships, and representation of CSF.
Ethical behavior is not only a condition of employment but a reflection of CSF’s mission. All individuals affiliated with CSF must act with honesty, transparency, and accountability in every professional activity. Behavior inconsistent with these expectations may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination or contract revocation.
Ethical Conduct
All staff, contractors, and partners must:
Adhere to the ethical standards of their profession and relevant state and federal regulations.
Complete required ethics and compliance training at the time of hire or onboarding, and participate in annual refreshers.
Conduct all CSF-related work with respect, confidentiality, and impartiality.
Avoid actions or statements that could damage public confidence in CSF’s integrity or mission.
Report any known or suspected violations of ethical standards, policies, or applicable law.
Supervisors and Designated Officers are responsible for ensuring that staff and contractors receive appropriate ethics training and that compliance expectations are clear and enforced.
Regulatory Compliance
CSF operates within a complex framework of legal and regulatory obligations. Every individual associated with CSF is required to:
Comply with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nonprofit operations, employment, and data security.
Follow all organizational policies regarding financial reporting, workplace behavior, nondiscrimination, and recordkeeping.
Maintain accurate and timely documentation for all work-related activities.
Report any instance of non-compliance or ethical concern through CSF’s Whistleblower or Disclosures Policy.
Licensure and Professional Standards
CSF requires all employees, contractors, and vendors to maintain:
Valid professional licenses, permits, or certifications necessary for their position or scope of work.
Documentation of active credentials on file with CSF’s administration.
Immediate disclosure of any suspension, expiration, or disciplinary action related to credentials.
Failure to maintain required credentials or to disclose relevant disciplinary actions may result in suspension or termination.
Legal and Ethical Accountability
Individuals acting on behalf of CSF must uphold all applicable laws and internal policies, including those relating to:
Employment and labor practices
Confidentiality and data protection
Workplace safety and nondiscrimination
Financial integrity and anti-fraud measures
Any violation of law or ethical standard, intentional or negligent, will be investigated promptly. Confirmed violations may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination, restitution, or referral to law enforcement.
Financial Responsibility
CSF maintains transparent, auditable, and compliant financial practices. All staff and contractors are required to:
Report financial transactions honestly and in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).
Submit accurate time, expense, and billing records.
Never falsify or alter documentation, invoices, or financial data.
Cooperate with audits and reviews conducted by CSF or external authorities.
CSF will not tolerate fraud, misuse of funds, or misrepresentation of financial activity.
Organizational Integrity
Employees and contractors must avoid real or perceived conflicts of interest. This includes:
Personal, financial, or professional relationships that could interfere with CSF’s objectivity or decision-making.
Accepting gifts, favors, or gratuities that could influence, or appear to influence, organizational actions.
Engaging in outside activities that conflict with CSF’s mission or operations.
All potential conflicts must be disclosed to the Board under CSF’s Conflict of Interest Policy.
Enforcement and Accountability
Ethical standards are enforced through CSF’s established internal controls, including:
Annual policy acknowledgment and ethics certification.
Monitoring and review by the Designated Officer or Board Ethics Committee.
Corrective action or disciplinary measures when violations are confirmed.
Each member of CSF whether staff, contractor, or partner shares responsibility for maintaining the organization’s integrity. Upholding these standards ensures CSF continues to serve the public interest with trust, transparency, and excellence.
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