Mensa International has just approved its Code of Ethics for Volunteers.  As you know, Mensa organizations the world over are run by volunteers (yours truly included). We need more of you. But we also need to make the grounds for volunteer work as clear as possible. So here is the Code of Ethics [ASIE 13-01 (Appendix 17)] for your reference.

With
over
115,000 members Mensa still is an almost completely volunteer-based
organization. Thousands of members work passionately on a regular basis
or on
certain occasions to make the worldwide network of highly gifted people a
reality and to make membership worthwhile. Mensa is grateful to all
volunteers
who donate their time and bring in their expertise to help our society.

However, to clarify the rights, responsibilities and duties of Mensa
volunteers, IBD sets the following Code of Ethics as a guideline.

1 – The
invaluable work of volunteers is the basis for a living Mensa community.
Volunteers work for Mensa because they want to do something meaningful, not
because they want to earn money or receive any tangible benefit. The reward for
volunteer work is the appreciation of Mensa and the smiles of happy members
saying “Thank you”.

2 –
Volunteers make a commitment to work for a certain task within Mensa. They are
officially appointed according to the rules and regulations of their Mensa
organization.  

3 – If a
volunteer is no longer capable of performing the duties involved with the
position, the volunteer should resign so that another member can take over. It
is never considered a failure should a volunteer decide to discontinue his or
her involvement for whatever reason.

4 –
Volunteers communicate openly and honestly. They give feedback to the Mensa
officers that are responsible for them. They accept feedback and guidance. They
follow the rules and decisions concerning their volunteer work.

5 –
Volunteers may be reimbursed for any cost in connection with their assigned
tasks according to the rules and regulations that have been set by their Mensa
organization. There is no additional financial or other compensation unless
beforehand agreed between the volunteer and that national Mensa.

6 –
Volunteers keep Mensa and their personal and professional interests apart. They
do not use their volunteer position to gain any professional or commercial
advantage unless granted and regulated by their Mensa organization, except for
the very valuable experience and transferable skills they may gain in the
course of their volunteer duties.  Each volunteer
shall disclose to the Board any potential conflict of interest between their
duties as a volunteer and their personal life.