I am pleased to announce that long time member Kerry Kupecz has agreed to take on the role of HPSC Ombudsperson. The role of the Ombudsperson is to be the first point of contact for members who wish to report a breach of the club Code of Conduct. The Ombudsperson role is separate from the Board of Directors to ensure independence and when required confidentiality.
Each year all members are required to read and acknowledge the Club Code of Conduct. If you notice a member whose behavior does not meet our club code of conduct, please contact the HPSC Ombudsperson by email at Ombudsperson@hpsc.ca with the person’s name and a brief note on his or her behavior. Your concern will be handled with discretion.
As a reminder, the main points of the HPSC Code of Conduct are:
1. Club members are responsible for respecting the integrity and dignity of each and every club member, as well as our suppliers including tour operators, resort personnel, and bus drivers.
Members maintain a companionable environment that is free of profane, sexist or sexually explicit language, threats, violence, or hurtful actions.
Members are committed to making HPSC an inclusive organization. We do not promote or perpetuate discrimination based on race, ancestry, place of origin, colour, ethnic origin, citizenship, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, marital status, family status or disability. We are accepting of all, within the limits of our skills, abilities, and resources. We are open to learning from others.
2. A member’s behavior at club events and on club-related social media reflects upon our club. Members are required to abide by local laws; our club code of conduct, policies and by-laws; and the policies of our venues, resorts, transportation providers and other partners.
3. Members are responsible for providing accurate and honest information. A member shall not share his or her login information or disclose any personal information about HPSC members to others, outside of the tasks necessary to run the club.
4. Members are responsible for paying any fees associated with trips or events they have committed to, regardless of whether they attend the event. Each member assumes full responsibility for any damages he or she may cause while participating in a club event. Each member is responsible for the safety and security of his or her own health and belongings.
FAILING TO UPHOLD OUR CODE OF CONDUCT WILL RESULT IN DISCIPLINARY ACTION UP TO TERMINATION OF MEMBERSHIP WITHOUT REIMBURSEMENT. IF A VIOLATION OF THIS CODE OCCURS WHILE TRAVELLING, A MEMBER MAY BE ASKED TO LEAVE AN EVENT IMMEDIATELY AND AT HIS OR HER OWN EXPENSE. THEY WILL NOT BE ENTITLED TO A REFUND OF ANY MONIES PAID.