1. Policy Statement

This policy clarifies the employment relationship between Family Promise of Puget Sound (FPOPS) and its employees. Employment with Family Promise of Puget Sound is at-will. This means that both the employee and Family Promise of Puget Sound have the right to terminate the employment relationship at any time, with or without cause, and with or without notice, for any lawful reason.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all employees (paid and unpaid) of Family Promise of Puget Sound, regardless of their position, length of service, or full-time or part-time status.

3. Guiding Principles

* Flexibility: Provide flexibility for both the organization and employees in managing the employment relationship.

* Clarity: Clearly define the nature of the employment relationship to avoid misunderstandings.

* Fairness: Ensure that any termination of employment is for a lawful reason and consistent with the organization’s non-discrimination policies.

4. Understanding At-Will Employment

* Mutual Right to Terminate: Both the employee and Family Promise of Puget Sound retain the right to end the employment relationship at any time.

* No Specific Duration: This employment relationship does not have a definite term or specific duration.

* No Requirement for Cause or Notice: Neither the employee nor FPOPS is required to provide a reason or advance notice for termination, although FPOPS may choose to do so.

* Lawful Reasons Only: While employment is at-will, termination will always be for a lawful reason and will not be based on any discriminatory factors prohibited by federal, state, or local law, or FPOPS’s Non-Discrimination Policy.

5. Employee Handbook is Not a Contract

This Employee Handbook, and any other policies, procedures, or communications, should not be construed as a contract of employment, express or implied, between Family Promise of Puget Sound and any employee. The provisions of this handbook are guidelines and do not create any contractual rights or obligations.

6. Policy Modification

This Employment At-Will Policy Statement represents the entire agreement between the employee and Family Promise of Puget Sound regarding the at-will nature of employment.

* Exclusive Authority: This policy can only be changed, modified, or waived in writing, and only by a formal resolution adopted by the Board of Directors of Family Promise of Puget Sound.

* No Other Authority: No other individual, including managers, supervisors, or other staff members, has the authority to enter into any agreement, express or implied, that alters the at-will nature of the employment relationship or to make any promises or representations contrary to this policy.

7. Acknowledgment

By accepting or continuing employment with Family Promise of Puget Sound, employees acknowledge their understanding and acceptance of this Employment At-Will Policy Statement.

8. Policy Review and Revision

This policy will be reviewed annually by the CEO and Board of Directors, or more frequently as needed, to ensure its continued effectiveness and alignment with legal requirements. Any revisions will be communicated to all relevant personnel.