To ensure a positive, respectful, and productive mentoring relationship, all participants in the CDFA Mentorship Program are expected to adhere to the following ethical guidelines:
General Program Expectations
The CDFA Mentorship Program ideals include mutual growth, learning, and support. Curiosity, open dialogue, and the exchange of ideas and experiences are expected within the mentor/mentee relationship. Honest and respectful feedback from both sides is crucial to the success of these relationships. If at any time, a mentor/mentee has any concerns regarding the program itself, ethical issues, or misconduct, program administrators should be notified immediately.
Respect & Professionalism
Participants will treat one another with courtesy, respect, and professionalism at all times. CDFA mentors and mentees will value diversity and promote an inclusive environment, free from discrimination, harassment, or bias based on race, gender, age, religion, sexual orientation, disability, or any other protected status. Mentors should avoid any form of favoritism, bias, or discriminatory behavior, and professional boundaries should be maintained.
Mentors and their mentees shall not engage in personal relationships (e.g., romantic, financial, etc.) and shall avoid any behavior that could be interpreted as coercive, inappropriate, or exploitative. The mentorship relationship shall not be for personal gain, private company gain, or advancement outside the scope of the program’s purpose.
Confidentiality
All program participants shall maintain strict confidentiality regarding all personal or professional information shared during mentoring sessions. Sensitive information shall not be disclosed to an outside individual and/or organization without express permission from the other party, unless required by law or program policy (e.g., risk of harm, unlawful behavior, sexual misconduct, etc.).
Conflicts of Interest
A conflict of interest occurs when personal, professional, or financial interests could compromise the effectiveness of the mentor/mentee relationship. Conflicts of interest include but are not limited to competing interests, financial or personal entanglement, and/or conflicting loyalties. Mentors/mentees shall disclose any potential conflicts of interest that may impact the mentorship within 24 hours of matching.
Integrity, Honesty & Competence
Participants shall be honest about their capabilities, experiences, and limitations. Mentors should offer guidance only within their areas of expertise and refer the mentee to others when/if necessary. Mentors and mentees should communicate openly and honestly regarding areas of competence. Mentors should be committed to providing accurate, constructive, and thoughtful feedback and guidance; all program participants should engage in continuous self-reflection and learning. Misrepresentation of skills, qualifications, or intentions is grounds for termination from the program.
Commitment & Accountability
Roles, responsibilities, and expectations should be discussed, clearly defined, and agreed upon between the mentor and mentee by the end of the first one-on-one engagement. Mentor/mentee goals should be established and measurable, and each party shall follow through on their assigned tasks. Program participants are accountable for their commitments (e.g., meeting regularly, preparing for discussions) and are expected to meet all agreed-upon meeting times and deadlines. Each party shall notify the other in advance if rescheduling is necessary. Missed meetings or disengagement should be addressed respectfully.
Voluntary Participation & Program Eligibility
Participants in the CDFA Mentorship Program must be employed by a CDFA Member Organization that is active and in good standing. Participation is entirely voluntary and requires participants to maintain their eligibility. Mentors/mentees may withdraw at any time, without penalty, by submitting a written request to Noelle Sheets, VP Knowledge & Networks, at . An effective date and the reason for withdrawal must be provided. If at any time, CDFA program leadership believes either party has violated any program guidelines or ethics, they may be removed permanently from the program and deemed ineligible to return. If such a situation occurs, the party shall be notified in writing.
CDFA Legal & Financial Disclaimer
CDFA is not herein engaged in rendering legal, accounting, financial or other advisory services, nor does CDFA intend that the material included herein be relied upon to the exclusion of outside counsel or a municipal advisor. This publication, report or presentation is intended to provide accurate and authoritative general information and does not constitute advising on any municipal security or municipal financial product. CDFA is not a registered municipal advisor and does not provide advice, guidance or recommendations on the issuance of municipal securities or municipal financial products. Those seeking to conduct complex financial transactions using the best practices mentioned in this publication, report or presentation are encouraged to seek the advice of a skilled legal, financial and/or registered municipal advisor. Questions concerning this publication, report or presentation should be directed to .
CDFA Non-Discrimination Policy
The Council of Development Finance Agencies does not discriminate in any manner contrary to law or justice on the basis of race, color, gender, sexual orientation, age, religion, disability, veteran's status or national origin in its programs or activities, including employment, membership, participation and sponsorship. For questions or concerns regarding CDFA's Non-Discrimination Policy, please contact Toby Rittner, CDFA's designated civil rights coordinator.