1. Our Core Values

    Five foundational values guide us:

    • Integrity – Acting with honesty, consistency, and moral courage

    •    Respect – Honoring the dignity and autonomy of every person

    •    Transparency – Communicating openly and truthfully

    •     Accountability – Owning our actions and their consequences

    •     Ethical Reflection – Pausing to consider the broader impact of our choices

    2. Professional Conduct

    All wvARC representatives are expected to:

    • Uphold high standards of ethical behavior

    • Avoid conflicts of interest and disclose potential bias

    •    Treat clients, students, and partners with fairness and empathy

    •    Refrain from discrimination, harassment, or exploitation

    •    Maintain confidentiality and protect sensitive information

    3. Conflicts of Interest

    A conflict arises when personal interests interfere with professional judgment. Team members must:

    • Disclose any relationships or interests that could influence decisions

    •    Avoid situations where personal gain compromises trust

    •    Seek guidance when unsure about a potential conflict

    4. Use of Resources

    wvARC’s resources, including intellectual property, digital tools, and brand identity, must be used responsibly and only for authorized purposes. Misuse or unauthorized disclosure is strictly prohibited.

    5. Confidentiality and Privacy

    We respect the privacy of all individuals and organizations we serve. This includes:

    • Safeguarding personal, academic, and professional information

    •    Complying with privacy laws and ethical standards

    •    Using data only with informed consent and for its intended purpose

    6. Ethical Decision-Making

    We encourage reflective practice. When facing a dilemma, team members should:

    • Gather relevant facts and perspectives

    •    Consider the impact on all stakeholders

    •    Consult with colleagues or leadership

    •    Choose the path that aligns with our values and builds trust

    7. Reporting and Accountability

    wvARC fosters a culture of openness. If a concern arises:

    •    Raise it with a supervisor or designated ethics lead

    •    Report in good faith without fear of retaliation

    • Participate honestly in any review or resolution process

    Violations may result in corrective action, including education, mediation, or termination of affiliation.

    8. Continuous Learning

    Ethics is not static. wvARC commits to:

    • Reviewing and updating this Code regularly

    •    Engaging in ongoing dialogue about ethical challenges

    • Modelling ethical leadership in all aspects of our work

    Conclusion

    This Code reflects wvARC’s founding vision: to guide transitions with integrity, empathy, and ethical clarity. It is a promise to those we serve—and to ourselves—that our work will always be rooted in respect for the human journey.