3. Code of Conduct

Adaptive Sports Program New Mexico (ASPNM)

Code of Conduct

Reporting Contacts: Onsite Lead Staff Member (varies by event) and

Executive Director Camille Romero at cromero@aspnm.org or (505)570-5710

1.     1. Purpose & Scope

This Code of Conduct applies to everyone involved in ASPNM programs, activities, and events—including participants, family members/caregivers, volunteers, contractors, and staff. It establishes shared expectations for respectful, safe, and inclusive behavior, and outlines role‑specific standards where applicable.

2.     2. Core Standards (Apply to Everyone)

• ·       Respect & Dignity: Treat all people with courtesy and respect, regardless of disability, race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, or any other status.

• ·       Safety & Well‑Being: Prioritize physical and emotional safety. Follow all safety instructions, equipment requirements, and site rules. Report hazards or incidents promptly.

• ·       Inclusion & Access: Support inclusive participation. Use person‑first, respectful language. Provide reasonable cooperation with accommodations and adaptive equipment protocols.

• ·       Integrity & Honesty: Be truthful in communications and reporting. Do not engage in fraud, misrepresentation, or misuse of ASPNM resources.

• ·       Boundaries & Professionalism: Maintain appropriate boundaries. Avoid bullying, harassment, intimidation, retaliation, or demeaning behavior—online or in person.

• ·       Substance Use: Do not use alcohol, illegal drugs, or misuse prescription medication during any ASPNM activity. Arrive fit to participate or serve.

• ·       Non‑Violence & Zero Tolerance for Abuse: Physical, emotional, or sexual abuse; exploitation; or neglect is strictly prohibited.

• ·       Privacy & Confidentiality: Respect the privacy of participants, families, volunteers, and staff. Handle personal and medical information responsibly and share only on a need‑to‑know basis.

• ·       Property & Facilities: Use equipment responsibly. Take care of shared spaces, vehicles, and adaptive gear; report damage or malfunctions immediately.

• Digital & Social Media Conduct: Represent ASPNM positively. Do not share identifying images or information of participants without proper consent.

3.     3. Role‑Specific Standards

All individuals must meet the Core Standards above. The following additional requirements apply to specific roles.

1. a.    Participants & Family Members/Caregivers

• ·       Follow all instructions from ASPNM staff and volunteers, including equipment use, loading/unloading procedures, and mountain/water/rock-site rules.

• ·       Support safety by avoiding interference with instruction, belay/spotter protocols, or boat/vehicle operations.

• ·       Communicate relevant medical or accessibility information needed for safe participation, including medications, allergies, or seizure protocols as appropriate.

• ·       Use respectful language and model sportsmanship; avoid disruptive, aggressive, or harassing behavior.

• ·       Only provide personal care that you are qualified and authorized to give; coordinate with ASPNM staff when assistance is needed.

• ·       Report concerns or incidents immediately to onsite staff or the Executive Director.

1. b.    Volunteers

• ·       Complete application, screening, and background checks as required; maintain current training and certifications relevant to assigned roles.

• ·       Follow lesson plans, safety briefings, and operational procedures; ask for clarification when uncertain.

• ·       Maintain professional boundaries; avoid one‑on‑one isolated interactions when possible and follow supervision guidelines.

• ·       Use appropriate communication and de‑escalation techniques; seek assistance early when safety or behavioral concerns arise.

• ·       Report all incidents, near misses, injuries, suspected abuse/neglect, or policy violations immediately, following ASPNM procedures.

• ·       Do not accept gifts or favors that could create real or perceived conflicts of interest without prior approval.

1. c.    Staff & Contractors

• ·       Meet all onboarding and position requirements (licenses, background checks, training, certifications). Keep credentials current.

• ·       Model the highest standard of professional conduct and inclusive leadership. Set and enforce clear safety practices.

• ·       Ensure appropriate ratios, supervision plans, transportation and vehicle safety compliance, and equipment maintenance.

• ·       Uphold mandatory reporting obligations consistent with law and ASPNM policy regarding suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation.

• ·       Safeguard participant data. Limit access to personal/medical information to authorized personnel and secure records per policy.

• ·       Avoid conflicts of interest and self‑dealing; disclose potential conflicts promptly to leadership and follow mitigation steps.

4.     4. Safeguarding & Safety

• ·       Two‑Deep/Observable Interaction: Maintain observable and interruptible interactions when feasible. Avoid unnecessary one‑on‑one isolation.

• ·       Appropriate Touch: Any physical assistance must be purposeful, explained, and consented to when possible; avoid intimate or invasive contact.

• ·       Transportation: Follow ASPNM driver, vehicle, and passenger safety policies; use seatbelts/PFDs/helmets and required adaptive equipment.

• ·       Medical & Emergency Response: Follow emergency action plans (EAPs); document incidents and notify designated contacts.

• ·       Risk Management: Adhere to terrain/water/weather assessments, participant skill matching, and equipment checks before activities.

 5. Prohibited Conduct (Examples)

• ·       Harassment, bullying, hazing, or retaliation.

• ·       Physical violence, threats, or intimidation.

• ·       Sexual harassment or sexualized behavior with or around participants; possession or distribution of sexually explicit material at activities.

• ·       Theft, fraud, or misuse of funds, equipment, or accounts.

• ·       Possession of weapons (unless expressly authorized for a specific, approved program use and in compliance with law and policy).

• ·       Alcohol/illegal drug use during programs; being under the influence while participating or serving.

• ·       Unauthorized photography/recording or posting of images/information without consent, especially of minors or sensitive contexts.

6. Reporting & Response 

Anyone who witnesses or experiences a violation of this Code—or has a safety concern—must report it as soon as possible to onsite staff or the Executive Director. Reports can be made verbally during an event or via email/phone using the contact at the top of this document. ASPNM will document and address reports promptly, fairly, and consistent with policy and applicable law, and will protect good‑faith reporters from retaliation.

• ·       Emergency situations: call 911 first, then notify ASPNM staff.

• ·       Incident documentation: staff/volunteers will complete incident reports and notify leadership per procedure.

• ·       Confidentiality: information will be shared only with those who need to know to respond appropriately.

• ·       External reporting: where required, ASPNM will notify law enforcement, protective services, or partner sites.

7. Violations & Consequences 

Consequences for violating this Code may include verbal/written warnings, removal from activities, suspension, termination of volunteer or employment roles, and/or bans from future participation. Serious misconduct may be referred to external authorities. Sanctions may be imposed even if conduct does not constitute a crime.

8. Acknowledgment & Agreement 

By participating in, volunteering with, or working for ASPNM, you acknowledge that you have read, understand, and agree to abide by this Code of Conduct. For volunteers and staff, a signed acknowledgment may be required during onboarding or renewal.