Committee Agreement

Volunteer Committee Agreement:

Welcome to your local GPN Node Committee. As members of this committee, we are committed to fostering a collaborative, respectful, and inclusive environment where everyone feels valued, safe, and empowered to contribute. By being part of this group, we agree to uphold the principles and values outlined below to ensure a positive experience for all.

1. Create a Welcoming Environment

   • Treat everyone with respect and kindness, regardless of their background, experience, or perspectives.

   • Be courteous in all interactions, whether in meetings, online discussions, or event settings.

   • Respect personal boundaries, including requests for privacy or space.
     
     

2. Commit to Inclusivity

   • Ensure all communication and contributions are accessible, appropriate, and considerate of all participants.

   • Avoid language, behavior, or actions that could exclude or alienate others.

   • Be mindful of diverse needs, including cultural, physical, and emotional considerations.
     
     

3. Work Together Constructively

   • Share responsibilities equitably and support each other in achieving the committee’s goals.

   • Approach disagreements or challenges respectfully, focusing on solutions rather than blame.

   • Recognize and value the contributions and perspectives of all committee and community members.

   • Assuming that everyone is doing their best and that their intentions are good. Seeking to understand underlying problems when conflicts emerge.
     
     

4. Promote Safety and Respect

   • Create a safe space to support the team to work together and to support each individual to feel uplifted.

   • Examples of inclusive behaviors include:

     • Championing other people’s work and giving props for jobs well done, or the amount of effort put into tasks.

     • Thinking of other members needs, skills or preferences when organising events or assigning work

     • Sharing opportunities to learn, grow, and lead

   • Harassment, intimidation, or discriminatory behavior of any kind is not acceptable.

   • Examples of unacceptable behaviors include:

     • Being overly critical of work being done by a committee or community member in a way that is not constructive or kind.

     • Excluding committee members from communications or events

     • Insults directed at a person or their work

   • If an issue arises, address it calmly or escalate it to the Node Lead or appropriate leader.
     
     

5. Be Proactive and Responsible

   • Take initiative to ensure the committee operates smoothly and inclusively.

   • If concerns about safety, inclusivity, or well-being arise, report them promptly to the Node Leads or escalate to other GPN leaders.

   • Take opportunities for yourself to grow and challenge yourself.
     
     

6. Support the Mission

   • Align your contributions with the committee’s purpose and goals.

   • Strive to inspire collaboration, creativity, and progress in all activities and events.

Accountability and Reporting

If you witness behavior that violates these principles, you’re encouraged to bring it to the attention of the Node Leads or another leader within GPN. All concerns will be taken seriously and addressed appropriately, ensuring confidentiality and respect for all parties involved.

Consequences of Inappropriate Behavior

Members who engage in behavior that violates this agreement may be:

• Asked to modify their behavior or issue an apology.

• Given a warning about future conduct.

• Asked to step down from their role within the committee.

• Escalated to higher authorities for further action if necessary.

Commitment to Growth

We recognize that fostering a positive and inclusive environment is a continuous effort. We encourage open feedback on this agreement and committee processes to improve how we work together.

By participating in a GPN Node Committee, you agree to these principles and commit to contributing to a safe, inclusive, and productive community. Thank you for being a vital part of this important work.