Our Community Standard: OnRamp To Independence exists to be a safe, affirming launchpad for young people building independent lives. Every person in our community — participant, mentor, volunteer, or staff — deserves to feel respected, valued, and safe. This Code of Conduct describes how we treat each other so that everyone can focus on growth.
1. Our Community Values
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Respect: We treat every person with dignity regardless of their background, identity, circumstances, or past. No one earns their right to respect — it is a starting point here.
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Honesty: We communicate truthfully, own our mistakes, and create a culture where it is safe to be real about where we are and where we want to go.
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Accountability: We do what we say we will do. When we fall short, we own it and recommit — without shame, without judgment.
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Confidentiality: What is shared in OnRamp spaces stays in OnRamp spaces. We protect each other's stories.
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Inclusion: Our community is open to all eligible young people regardless of race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, disability, or immigration status.
2. Expected Behaviors
All participants, volunteers, mentors, and staff are expected to:
- Use respectful language in all interactions — verbal, written, and digital.
- Arrive on time and communicate in advance when unable to attend a scheduled session or event.
- Maintain the confidentiality of other community members' personal information and circumstances.
- Be honest and forthcoming with their OnRamp point of contact about needs, barriers, and progress.
- Follow all applicable policies when using OnRamp facilities, equipment, and resources.
- Report safety concerns or Code of Conduct violations to a staff member or by email to info@onramp-independence.org.
- Engage with OnRamp materials, programs, and partnerships for their intended purpose only.
3. Prohibited Behaviors
The following behaviors are not permitted in any OnRamp program, event, space, or communication:
- Harassment or bullying — including verbal, physical, or online/digital harassment of any person.
- Discrimination — treating any person differently or negatively based on their identity, background, or circumstances.
- Violence or threats — physical violence, threatening language, or intimidation in any form.
- Substance use — use of alcohol, illegal substances, or cannabis on OnRamp premises or during OnRamp activities.
- Weapons — bringing or displaying weapons of any kind at OnRamp events or facilities.
- Unauthorized sharing of confidential information — sharing another participant's personal details, story, or circumstances without their consent.
- Dishonesty — providing materially false information to OnRamp staff or in program materials.
- Misuse of resources — using OnRamp equipment, materials, or funds for personal or unauthorized purposes.
- Inappropriate contact between mentors and participants — all mentorship interactions must remain within OnRamp-approved boundaries and channels.
4. Reporting & Response Process
How to Report: Anyone who witnesses or experiences a Code of Conduct violation can report it to any OnRamp staff member, or by emailing info@onramp-independence.org. All reports will be treated confidentially to the extent possible.
OnRamp's Response: All reported violations will be reviewed and addressed promptly. Depending on the nature and severity of the violation, responses may include:
- A private conversation and verbal reminder of expectations
- A formal written warning
- Temporary suspension from program activities
- Permanent removal from the program (in cases of serious or repeated violations)
No Retaliation: OnRamp will not tolerate retaliation against any person who makes a good-faith report of a Code of Conduct violation.
5. Safety & Mandatory Reporting
OnRamp To Independence staff are legally required to report reasonable suspicion of child abuse, neglect, or exploitation to appropriate authorities under Georgia law. This obligation applies even when information is shared in confidence. OnRamp will make every effort to communicate with the individual involved when such a report is made, unless doing so would create additional risk.
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, please call 911. If you are in crisis, please contact the Crisis Text Line (text HOME to 741741) or 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (call or text 988).
6. Acknowledgment & Agreement
By signing below, I confirm that I have read and understand the OnRamp To Independence Community Code of Conduct. I agree to uphold these standards in all interactions within the OnRamp community, and I understand that violations may result in suspension or removal from program activities.
