SOCIAL MEDIA POLICY

Central Illinois Resource Center Inc.
Board of Directors Social Media Policy
Adopted: February 21st, 2025

Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to outline expectations for the responsible use of social media by members of the Board of Directors of Central Illinois Resource Center Inc. (CIRC Inc.), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. As leaders and representatives of the organization, Board Members must protect the integrity, credibility, and mission of CIRC Inc. when engaging online.

Scope

This policy applies to all Board Members when using social media platforms, whether in a personal or professional capacity, whenever their role at CIRC Inc. may be perceived or implied.

General Guidelines

1. Respect the Organization’s Mission
   
   

   • Board members must ensure that all public social media activity aligns with the values and mission of CIRC Inc.
     
     

   • Avoid any posts that contradict, undermine, or misrepresent the organization’s work or reputation.
     
     

2. Avoid Political Endorsements
   
   

   • As a 501(c)(3) organization, CIRC Inc. is strictly prohibited from endorsing or opposing any political candidates.
     
     

   • Board members must not use CIRC Inc.’s name, logo, or affiliation in posts that suggest political partisanship.
     
     

3. Confidentiality and Privacy
   
   

   • Do not disclose confidential information, including internal discussions, financial matters, legal issues, or private details about staff, clients, or partners.
     
     

   • Respect the privacy rights of others when sharing photos, names, or stories.
     
     

4. Distinguish Personal Views
   
   

   • When expressing personal opinions online, Board Members should clearly state that views are their own and not those of CIRC Inc.
     
     

   • Example: “The views expressed are my own and do not reflect those of the Central Illinois Resource Center Inc.”
     
     

5. Do Not Represent Without Authorization
   
   

   • Only the Executive Director or designated staff are permitted to speak on behalf of the organization.
     
     

   • Board members should refer media or public inquiries to the appropriate contact.
     
     

6. Civility and Professionalism
   
   

   • Board members are expected to maintain a tone of respect, especially in discussions on sensitive or controversial issues.
     
     

   • Avoid inflammatory, discriminatory, or offensive language that could harm CIRC Inc.’s reputation.
     
     

7. Use of Organizational Accounts
   
   

   • Board members may be invited to participate in or contribute to official CIRC Inc. social media campaigns with prior approval from the Executive Director or designated communications lead.
     
     

8. Accountability and Consequences
   
   

   • Violations of this policy may result in removal from board committees, formal reprimand, or recommendation for removal from the Board, in accordance with CIRC Inc.'s bylaws and code of conduct.
     
     

Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or as needed by the Board to ensure compliance with IRS regulations, nonprofit best practices, and evolving social media standards.

Acknowledgment
All Board Members are required to sign and acknowledge their understanding and agreement to abide by this policy upon onboarding and annually thereafter.