Juntos Belize | Terms of Engagement
INTRODUCTION AND MISSION
Juntos Belize is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded on Christian principles and dedicated to serving vulnerable communities worldwide. Our mission is rooted in the belief that every person is created with inherent dignity and worth, and we are called to serve others with compassion, integrity, and respect.
These Terms of Engagement outline our operational framework, values, and commitments as we work alongside communities, partners, and stakeholders in our international humanitarian efforts.
OUR FOUNDATIONAL COMMITMENTS
Faith and Service Integration
We are motivated by Christian love and the call to serve the marginalized and vulnerable
Our faith informs our values but does not limit our service to any particular group
We provide assistance based on need, without discrimination based on race, ethnicity, religion, gender, or political affiliation
We maintain transparency about our Christian identity while respecting the beliefs and dignity of all we serve
Human Dignity and Respect
We affirm the inherent worth and dignity of every individual
We approach our work with cultural humility and seek to understand local contexts
We prioritize the voices and leadership of the communities we serve
We reject any form of exploitation, coercion, or manipulation
OPERATIONAL PRINCIPLES
Legal and Ethical Compliance
We operate in full compliance with applicable local, national, and international laws
We obtain necessary permits, registrations, and approvals for our activities
We maintain the highest standards of financial accountability and transparency
We adhere to internationally recognized humanitarian standards and best practices
Cultural Sensitivity and Partnership
We engage respectfully with diverse cultural, religious, and social contexts
We prioritize partnerships with local organizations, churches, and community leaders
We seek to build local capacity rather than create dependency
We adapt our approaches to honor local customs while maintaining our core values
Collaborative Engagement
We welcome partnerships with secular organizations, government agencies, and other faith-based groups
We maintain our organizational identity while working cooperatively toward shared humanitarian goals
We commit to honest communication about our capabilities, limitations, and expectations
We respect the autonomy and expertise of our partners
BUSINESS PARTNERSHIP AND DEVELOPMENT
Economic Empowerment Mission
We believe that thriving local businesses are foundational to healthy communities
We partner with business owners to strengthen their enterprises as platforms for positive community impact
We provide practical support, mentorship, and resources to help businesses achieve sustainable growth
We recognize businesses as vital partners in advancing both economic development and social good
Holistic Business Development
We assist business owners in developing sound business practices, financial management, and strategic planning
We promote work-life balance as essential to personal well-being and business sustainability
We encourage businesses to consider their role in serving their communities and employees
We support the development of ethical business practices that reflect integrity and social responsibility
Kingdom-Focused Business Integration
We invite receptive business partners to explore how their faith can inform their business practices
We provide resources and mentorship for those interested in using their businesses as platforms for ministry
We support businesses in creating positive workplace cultures that honor human dignity
We encourage business owners to consider how their enterprises can contribute to community flourishing and spiritual growth
Collaborative Business Ecosystem
We facilitate connections between local businesses to promote mutual support and growth
We help businesses identify opportunities for community service and social impact
We support the development of business networks that share common values and goals
We encourage businesses to mentor other emerging enterprises
SERVICE DELIVERY STANDARDS
Non-Conditional Assistance
Our humanitarian aid and services are provided without requiring religious participation or conversion
We do not use aid as an incentive for religious activity
We clearly separate humanitarian assistance from any spiritual or religious programming
Recipients are free to decline spiritual offerings without affecting their access to services
Quality and Accountability
We commit to delivering high-quality, culturally appropriate services
We maintain systems for monitoring, evaluation, and continuous improvement
We welcome feedback from beneficiaries and communities
We take seriously any complaints or concerns about our conduct or services
Capacity Building Focus
We prioritize sustainable, long-term solutions over short-term relief when appropriate
We invest in local leadership development and institutional strengthening
We aim to work ourselves out of a job by building community resilience and self-sufficiency
Business Development and Economic Empowerment
We partner with local businesses to strengthen their operations, growth potential, and community impact
We provide mentorship, training, and resources to help business owners achieve sustainable success
We promote business practices that reflect integrity, ethical conduct, and social responsibility
We encourage the integration of faith principles in business operations for those who are receptive
STAFF AND VOLUNTEER CONDUCT
Professional Standards
All personnel represent our organization with integrity, respect, and professionalism
We maintain appropriate boundaries in all relationships and interactions
We prohibit any form of harassment, abuse, or exploitation
We commit to ongoing cultural competency and sensitivity training
Spiritual Conduct
Staff may share their faith when appropriate and welcomed, but never in a coercive manner
Personal evangelism must not interfere with professional duties or service delivery
We respect the religious beliefs and practices of those we serve
Any spiritual care or religious programming is clearly voluntary and separate from humanitarian services
Business Partnership Conduct
We respect the autonomy and decision-making authority of business owners
We provide guidance and support without imposing our organizational structure or methods
We maintain appropriate boundaries between business mentorship and spiritual guidance
We honor the business owner’s freedom to accept or decline faith-based perspectives
We ensure that business support is never conditional upon religious participation or agreement
PARTNERSHIP EXPECTATIONS
Mutual Respect and Transparency
We expect honest, open communication from all partners
We commit to sharing relevant information about our goals, methods, and constraints
We respect the autonomy and decision-making authority of local partners
We welcome constructive feedback and collaborative problem-solving
Shared Accountability
Partners share responsibility for the success and integrity of collaborative efforts
We expect adherence to agreed-upon standards of conduct and service delivery
We maintain joint monitoring and evaluation systems where appropriate
We address conflicts or concerns promptly and constructively
FINANCIAL STEWARDSHIP
Donor Accountability
We maintain rigorous financial controls and transparent reporting
We use resources efficiently and for their intended purposes
We acknowledge the source of our funding while respecting donor preferences for recognition
We honor restricted gifts and designated funding requirements
Local Economic Impact
We prioritize local procurement and hiring when feasible and appropriate
We avoid creating economic distortions or unfair competition in local markets
We consider the long-term economic implications of our interventions
We actively support local business development as a pathway to sustainable community development
We measure success by the growth and resilience of local business ecosystems
COMMUNICATION AND REPRESENTATION
Public Representation
We represent our work and impact honestly and accurately
We respect the privacy and dignity of those we serve in all communications
We obtain appropriate consent before using stories, images, or testimonials
We avoid sensationalism or exploitation in fundraising or awareness materials
Advocacy and Voice
We may engage in advocacy on behalf of the communities we serve
We support local voices and leadership in advocacy efforts
We avoid partisan political activities while addressing systemic issues affecting vulnerable populations
CONFLICT RESOLUTION AND COMPLAINTS
Internal Processes
We maintain clear procedures for addressing grievances and concerns
We protect whistleblowers and those who report misconduct
We investigate complaints thoroughly and take appropriate corrective action
We document lessons learned and adjust policies as needed
External Accountability
We participate in relevant humanitarian accountability mechanisms
We welcome oversight from legitimate authorities and accountability bodies
We commit to transparency in addressing any verified misconduct
CONCLUSION
These Terms of Engagement reflect our commitment to excellence, integrity, and faithful service in our international humanitarian work. We recognize that effective service requires ongoing learning, adaptation, and humility. We welcome dialogue with communities, partners, and stakeholders as we seek to fulfill our mission with honor and effectiveness.
By engaging with Juntos Belize, all parties acknowledge their understanding of and commitment to these principles and standards.