Code of Conduct

Acadia Park & Community Centre

Last updated: 11/03/25

Acadia Recreation Club Society Code of Conduct

Purpose

The Acadia Recreation Club Society (The Society) is committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, respectful, and welcoming environment for all Members of the Public who use and enjoy our facilities, programs and services, Volunteers, Vendors, and our Board of Directors. This Code of Conduct outlines the expectations for behavior and the consequences of not adhering to these standards, how the Code of Conduct will be implemented, monitored and reviewed ongoing.

The facilities, programs and services owned, operated and provided by the Society and the use of these, is a privilege, not a right, and shall be enjoyed within the guidelines of this Code of Conduct.

Guiding Principles

We believe in:

  • Respect and Courtesy: Treating others with kindness, patience, and honesty.

  • Inclusivity: Welcoming individuals of all backgrounds, identities, and abilities.

  • Constructive Communication: Engaging in open, honest, and respectful dialogue.

  • Personal Responsibility: Being accountable for one’s actions and their impact on others.

  • Safety and Well-being: Prioritizing the physical and emotional safety of all participants.

Expected Conduct

Respect and Inclusivity

  • All individuals are to be treated with dignity and respect, regardless of race, gender, age, sexual orientation, religion, nationality, or ability.

  • Discrimination, harassment, bullying, or hate speech—whether in person or online—will not be tolerated.

Behaviour and Communication

  • All Board Members, Volunteers, Vendors, and Members of the General Public will behave responsibly and courteously.

  • Aggressive, offensive, or disruptive behavior, including inappropriate language or gestures, is strictly prohibited.

  • All verbal and non-verbal communication must be respectful and constructive.

  • Public disparagement of others is not acceptable.

Conflict Resolution

The Board of Directors of the Society is committed to expedite any conflicts quickly to avoid ongoing concerns. As such, a three-person Code of Conduct Oversight Team (CCOT) consisting of three Board Members, one of which shall be an Executive Member providing the Team Leadership, shall be created. All concerns brought forward as a result of the implementation of this Code of Conduct shall be reviewed and actioned, by this team.

  • Conflicts should be resolved respectfully and peacefully.

  • Individuals are encouraged to seek assistance from the CCOT if needed.

  • Retaliation against those who report concerns is strictly prohibited.

Safety and Compliance

  • Everyone must comply with safety protocols and use personal protective equipment when required.

  • Any safety hazards or incidents must be reported immediately to Club leadership.

  • Illegal or unethical activities are strictly forbidden.

Privacy and Confidentiality

  • Personal and sensitive information must be protected and only shared with explicit consent.

  • Unauthorized access or disclosure of member or club information is not permitted.

Participation and Engagement

  • Active participation in Society activities is encouraged to build community and camaraderie.

  • New volunteers and participants should be welcomed and supported in integrating into the opportunities provided by the Society

Vendor Responsibilities

  • Vendors must respond to customer complaints respectfully and reasonably.

  • Vendors must not publicly disparage other vendors, volunteers, or guests.

Prohibited Behaviors

  • Physical or verbal aggression

  • Harassment or intimidation

  • Discrimination of any kind

  • Disregard for Society rules or safety guidelines

  • Retaliation against individuals who report concerns

Enforcement and Consequences

  • Adherence to this Code of Conduct is mandatory for all individuals participating in Society activities or using Society facilities.

  • Violations may result in disciplinary action, including:

    • Verbal or written warnings

      Temporary suspension from Society activities

    • Permanent ban from Society facilities

  • Serious infractions, such as threats or aggressive behavior, may be reported to law enforcement.

  • All decisions regarding disciplinary action will be made by CCOT and or designated directly to the full Board of Directors

  • Individuals and groups using Society activities or facilities are encouraged to report inappropriate behavior to the CCOT.

Commitment to Improvement

We strive for continuous improvement and welcome feedback to enhance our club’s operations and community experience. This Code of Conduct shall be reviewed annually, at the first meeting to follow the annual meeting of the Society.

Implementation

Upon final majority approval of the Board of Directors of the Society, the following implementation shall take place:

  • All existing Board of Director Members shall read and sign a copy of the Code of Conduct

  • All existing persons on the Membership Role of the Society shall read and sign a copy of the Code of Conduct

  • All rental requests will be given the Code of Conduct to sign as part of the contract and payment process. In cases where rentals are a private rental, the person signing the document shall be responsible for their group compliance. In cases where a group is an ongoing regular participant as volunteers or renters, all members of the group will also be required to individually sign the Code of Conduct

  • All Sackville Farmers Market Vendors, Volunteers and Team Leads shall read and sign the Code of Conduct

  • Summary Signage shall be created and displayed in the Hall, on the Bernie Bishop Building and in two other areas in the Park, to be determined by the CCOT

  • Signed documents shall be kept on file electronically and updated annually.