Here are some answers to Frequently Asked Questions around GMC’s new Volunteer Code of Conduct, which can be read in full here.
Why did GMC develop a volunteer code of conduct?
The GMC developed the Code of Conduct to convey expectations of acceptable behavior of GMC volunteers and to define the roles, responsibilities, and process related to reporting, investigation, and mitigation of reported misconduct.
Why is GMC developing the code now?
Trail maintaining clubs, including GMC, have seen increased reports of incidents of harassment and unacceptable behavior involving volunteers, staff, or visitors.
The Appalachian Trail Conservancy developed a code of conduct in response to increased incidents in 2021. The ATC asked AT maintaining clubs, including GMC, to adopt the ATC code or develop their own (ATC Code of Conduct Guidance). The GMC decided to develop its own code of conduct for volunteers and began the process in 2022.
Who does the code apply to?
The Code of Conduct applies to anyone who volunteers on behalf of the Green Mountain Club including but not limited to volunteer leaders, Section members, adopters and anyone who partners or interacts with the GMC by joining us in the Code.
Does the code apply to GMC staff?
No. Expectations of acceptable behavior for staff are included in the Board approved personnel policies. Enforcement of GMC personnel policies are the responsibility of the executive director or the GMC Executive Committee in the case of the executive director.
Does the code apply only to incidents on the Long Trail?
No. The Code of Conduct applies to interactions that occur across the Long Trail System, including in offices and visitor centers; on trips, at events, programs, and trainings; at GMC-operated facilities of all types; in meetings; on the Trail; at social events; in written communication, including online and social media; and at all other events, activities, and places when we are ambassadors for GMC.
What do I do if I think the code has been violated?
If you believe that the Code of Conduct has been violated, please report the violation using one of the following methods:
- Report the violation through GMC’s online report tool
- Contact GMC’s Executive Director at 802-373-5676 or [email protected]
What happens when a violation has been reported?
If the GMC receives a complaint through the online incident report tool or other means, it will be investigated by the Code of Conduct Support Team which is led by the Executive Director and comprised of 2 staff directors, 2 Board members, 1 Committee Chair, 1 Section President, and legal counsel (as necessary). Once a complaint is received, the Executive Director will confirm receipt of the report to the complainant within 1 week and begin the investigation.
What happens once a complaint has been investigated?
At the conclusion of the investigation, a decision will be made by the Code of Conduct Support Team as to the need for any discipline, including but not limited to mediation or counseling, loss of membership, exclusion from activities, or revocation of leader or volunteer status. Any legal proceedings stemming from an incident are the jurisdiction of law enforcement. As appropriate, GMC will inform the complainant(s) and the respondent(s) of the investigation’s outcome. GMC will maintain a confidential record of all resolutions.
What happens if someone files a complaint against me?
You will be contacted as part of the investigation. Designated members of the Code of Conduct Support Team typically will speak separately with the complainant, respondent, and witnesses (if any). The Team may interview others as deemed appropriate. During the investigation, individual issues will be kept confidential to the fullest extent possible.
What if I don’t agree with the investigation’s outcome, support team’s decision?
A decision may be appealed by either the complainant or the respondent after the investigation process is completed. Appeals will be received by the GMC President who will form an appeals committee led by a Board officer, and include 1 Board member, 1 staff member, 1 committee chair, and 1 Section President. The appeals Committee will review the Code of Conduct Support Team decision and make a recommendation within 2 weeks regarding the appeal to the GMC President. Outcomes of the appeals process are final.
Are you worried that the code of conduct will cause people to not want to volunteer for GMC?
We hope not. The code is applied without bias and does not unjustly exclude anyone. GMC staff and volunteers have a right to be treated with respect and have a workplace free of harassment, discrimination, or hostile conditions. The code is a tool to help GMC be an organization that is safe, inclusive, just, fair, and consistent.
