A conflict of interest is a situation in which private, personal, organizational or business interests may, when viewed reasonably, influence or interfere with the objective exercise of one's judgment. Conflicts arise when an individual or group has a private, personal, organizational or business interest in the potential outcome of a discussion or decision within the Foundation.

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These may be financial in nature, but can also take the form of other special interests, advantages, benefits or obligations.

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It is the duty of each volunteer, staff and Board member to bring forward for review any situation in which they believe themselves or another person or group in the Foundation may be in a conflict of interest, real or perceived.

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When a person is in a conflict of interest, he or she must remove himself or herself from any dealing with the subject matter giving rise to the potential conflict, real or perceived. At a minimum, this means that the individual cannot participate in dissemination or receipt of information, discussions, decisions or votes involving this subject. If the circumstances are such that a conflict of interest is inherent in an individual holding a position or office within the Foundation, he or she must resign.

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