VSVV Non-Discrimination Policy

Volunteer Sedona & the Verde Valley

“Empowering Volunteers, Strengthening Our Community”


Nondiscrimination Policy
Effective Date: April 14, 2026
Last Reviewed: April 14, 2026


1. Policy Statement

Volunteer Sedona & the Verde Valley (VSVV) is committed to fostering a welcoming, inclusive, and respectful environment where all individuals are treated with dignity and respect.


Rooted in our core values of Heart, Community Focus, Integrity, Collaboration, and Empowerment, VSVV does not discriminate on the basis of any protected characteristic and is dedicated to ensuring equitable access to volunteer opportunities, programs, partnerships, and leadership.


We believe that diversity strengthens our community and enhances our collective impact. This policy is intended to comply with all applicable federal, state, and local nondiscrimination laws.


2. Scope

This policy applies to all individuals engaged with VSVV, including:

  • Board members 
  • Staff and contractors 
  • Volunteers and volunteer applicants 
  • Program participants 
  • Community partners and sponsors 
  • Vendors and third parties 


This policy applies to all VSVV activities, including volunteer placements, events, trainings, communications, and online platforms.


3. Nondiscrimination Commitment

VSVV prohibits discrimination, harassment, and retaliation based on, but not limited to:

  • Race, color, or ethnicity 
  • National origin or ancestry 
  • Age 
  • Sex, gender, gender identity, or gender expression 
  • Sexual orientation 
  • Disability (physical or mental) 
  • Religion or creed 
  • Marital or family status 
  • Pregnancy or parental status 
  • Genetic information 
  • Veteran or military status 
  • Socioeconomic status 
  • Any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law 


4. Equal Opportunity in Participation

VSVV is committed to ensuring equal access and opportunity in all aspects of its work, including:

  • Volunteer recruitment, placement, and recognition 
  • Participation in programs and events 
  • Leadership and committee involvement 
  • Partnerships and collaborations 


We actively work to identify and remove barriers to participation and to create pathways for individuals of all backgrounds to engage meaningfully in service.


5. Prohibited Conduct

Discrimination, harassment, or retaliation of any kind is not tolerated. Prohibited conduct includes, but is not limited to:

  • Excluding individuals from opportunities based on bias 
  • Offensive or derogatory comments, jokes, or slurs 
  • Harassment or intimidation related to a protected characteristic 
  • Unequal treatment in volunteer assignments, programs, or partnerships 
  • Retaliation against individuals who raise concerns or participate in an investigation 


6. Reporting Concerns

Anyone who experiences or witnesses discrimination, harassment, or retaliation is encouraged to report it promptly. Reports may be made verbally or in writing to:

  • The Executive Director or Board Leadership 
  • Designated Contact: Spring Cason Graf, | spring@volunteersedona.com | (847) 840-3233 

Reports may also be submitted anonymously.


7. Investigation and Response

When appropriate and with the consent of all parties involved, VSVV may offer a facilitated reconciliation process to address harm, support accountability, and rebuild trust. This may include a structured conversation or restorative meeting designed to promote understanding, repair relationships, and prevent future harm.


Participation in a reconciliation process is voluntary and does not replace or delay necessary corrective or disciplinary action. Corrective actions will be proportionate to the severity and nature of the violation and may include removal from volunteer or contractual roles, termination of partnerships, or other appropriate measures.


8. Anti-Retaliation

VSVV strictly prohibits retaliation against any individual who:

  • Reports discrimination or harassment 
  • Participates in an investigation 
  • Advocates for equitable treatment 

Retaliation will be treated as a separate violation of this policy.


9. Accessibility and Inclusion

VSVV is committed to accessibility and will make reasonable accommodations to support participation by individuals with disabilities or other needs whenever possible.

This may include, but is not limited to:

  • Physical accessibility considerations 
  • Flexible participation options 
  • Language access or communication support 


10. Accountability and Culture

All individuals engaged with VSVV share responsibility for upholding this policy and contributing to a culture of inclusion, respect, and belonging. Grounded in our core values, VSVV is committed not only to nondiscrimination, but to actively fostering an environment where all individuals feel valued, respected, and empowered to contribute.


11. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed periodically and updated as needed to reflect best practices and legal requirements.