Community Rules & Guidelines

1. Community Standards

Africa Sojourners of Hope (ASOH) is dedicated to creating a safe, respectful, and inclusive community. These Community Rules establish expectations for all participants—donors, volunteers, applicants, and beneficiaries—to ensure our platform supports our humanitarian mission.

By participating in ASOH programs or using our platform, you agree to uphold these values and guidelines.

2. Our Core Values

3. Donor Guidelines

Ethical Giving

• Donations must be from legal, legitimate sources
• No donations in exchange for improper benefits or favors
• Funds designated for specific programs will be used accordingly
• All donations are final and non-refundable

Donor Conduct

• Treat ASOH staff and beneficiaries with respect
• Do not demand special treatment or access to beneficiaries
• Do not photograph or identify beneficiaries without explicit consent
• Respect confidentiality of program details and beneficiary information

Communication

• Be truthful in describing your donation and expectations
• Do not misuse ASOH's name or reputation for personal gain
• Provide accurate contact information for donation receipts and updates

4. Volunteer Guidelines

Volunteer Standards

• Commit to ASOH's mission and values
• Follow all ASOH policies and procedures
• Maintain professional boundaries with beneficiaries and staff
• Report concerns through proper channels
• Complete required training before engaging with beneficiaries

Conduct Expectations

• Be reliable and punctual for volunteer commitments
• Treat everyone—staff, volunteers, beneficiaries—with dignity and respect
• Maintain confidentiality of sensitive program and beneficiary information
• Do not take photos or share identifiable information without permission
• Do not engage in harassment, discrimination, or abusive behavior
• Do not work while under the influence of alcohol or drugs

Prohibited Conduct

• Sexual harassment or abuse
• Violence or threats of violence
• Theft or misappropriation of ASOH or beneficiary property
• Fraud or dishonesty
• Discrimination based on protected characteristics
• Offering money, gifts, or favors for inappropriate influence

5. Applicant & Beneficiary Guidelines

Honest Applications

• Provide accurate and complete information in applications
• Do not misrepresent circumstances or falsify documents
• Disclose relevant information that might affect eligibility
• Notify ASOH of changes in circumstances promptly

Respectful Engagement

• Treat ASOH staff and other beneficiaries with respect
• Communicate concerns constructively and through proper channels
• Participate actively in programs you are enrolled in
• Protect the privacy of other beneficiaries

Responsible Use of Assistance

• Use assistance (funds, supplies, services) for stated purposes only
• Do not sell or trade assistance intended for personal use
• Acknowledge assistance receipt when required
• Report any misuse or fraud you become aware of

Media & Photography

• Photos or videos may only be taken with your explicit written consent
• You retain rights to your image and can request removal anytime
• ASOH will not identify you without your permission
• Do not share identifying information about other beneficiaries online

6. Prohibited Content & Conduct

Online & Communication Standards

On ASOH's platform, messaging systems, and social media, do NOT:

• Post hate speech, slurs, or discriminatory content
• Share sexually explicit, violent, or graphic content
• Harass, threaten, or intimidate others
• Impersonate others or create fake accounts
• Spam, phish, or distribute malware
• Share confidential program or beneficiary information
• Post false information or misleading statements
• Engage in personal attacks or cyberbullying

Real-World Conduct

Participants must not engage in:

• Violence, abuse, or coercion
• Sexual misconduct or exploitation
• Theft, fraud, or financial exploitation
• Discrimination or harassment based on identity
• Illegal activities

7. Enforcement & Consequences

Violations

Violations of these Community Rules may result in:

• Warning or formal notice
• Removal from programs or volunteer roles
• Suspension of platform access
• Permanent ban from ASOH programs
• Referral to law enforcement for legal violations

Reporting

If you witness or experience a violation:

Appeal Process

If you believe a violation decision is unfair, you may appeal to ASOH leadership within 30 days with supporting documentation.

8. Special Protections for Vulnerable Persons

ASOH has enhanced safeguards for participants who are minors, have intellectual disabilities, or are otherwise vulnerable:

• Mandatory background checks for staff/volunteers working with minors
• Two-adult rule: no one-on-one contact between adults and minors
• Parental/guardian consent required for minors' participation
• Enhanced privacy protections for sensitive beneficiary information
• Zero tolerance for abuse or exploitation

9. Accessibility & Inclusion

ASOH is committed to ensuring these guidelines are accessible to everyone:

• Available in multiple languages upon request
• Accessible to persons with disabilities (screen reader compatible)
• Explained verbally to those with literacy challenges
• Adapted for cultural and contextual differences

Contact access@asoh.org for alternative formats or language translations.

10. Contact & Support

Questions or concerns about these guidelines?