1. Policy Statement
This Individual Program Handbook is intended solely as an informational guide and is not, nor should it be seen as, a contract for services between Family Promise of Puget Sound (FPOPS) and any individual. The policies, procedures, and support described here are guidelines to give you information and help us provide consistent, respectful services. They do not create any contractual rights, express or implied, between FPOPS and its individuals.
2. Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to:
* Clearly define the nature of the service relationship between FPOPS and its individuals.
* Prevent any misunderstanding that the Individual Program Handbook or any other FPOPS document creates a service contract.
* Make sure FPOPS can adapt its programs and procedures to meet changing needs.
* Ensure all individuals understand that participation in our programs is based on mutual agreement and adherence to guidelines.
3. Scope
This policy applies to all individuals and families receiving services from Family Promise of Puget Sound. It covers all information within the Individual Program Handbook and any other FPOPS policies, procedures, or communications, whether written or spoken.
4. Guiding Principles
* Clarity: We’ll provide clear statements about the nature of our service relationship.
* Flexibility: We need to preserve our ability to change policies and programs as needed to best serve our community.
* Transparency: We’ll clearly communicate the non-contractual nature of program participation to all individuals.
* Mutual Respect: We’ll ensure understanding that successful participation relies on both FPOPS and the individual upholding their responsibilities as outlined in this handbook.
5. Key Information: Program Participation Guidelines
Your participation in FPOPS programs is based on a mutual understanding and agreement to follow our guidelines. This means that both you and FPOPS have the right to end program participation.
* No Fixed Term: Your participation with FPOPS programs is for no definite term or specific duration unless otherwise stated for a particular program component.
* Mutual Right to End Participation: Both you and FPOPS have the right to end the program relationship at any time, following the procedures outlined in the Individual Program Participation: Separation and Termination Policy.
* Consistent with Our Mission: Any decision to end program participation by FPOPS will be made for lawful reasons, consistent with our mission to support families, and will not be based on any discriminatory factors prohibited by federal, state, or local law.
6. Policy Updates and Revisions
FPOPS reserves the right to change, update, or end any policy, practice, or support described in this handbook at any time, with or without notice, as long as it’s consistent with legal requirements. Individuals will be notified of important changes to policies that affect their program participation.
7. Supersedes Previous Policies
This handbook replaces all previous individual handbooks, manuals, and verbal or written policies that don’t match its provisions.
8. Acknowledgment
By accepting or continuing to receive services from Family Promise of Puget Sound, individuals acknowledge their understanding and acceptance of this policy and the guiding nature of this handbook.
9. Responsibilities
* Individuals: All individuals are responsible for understanding this policy and recognizing that the handbook is a guide for their program participation, not a contract for services.
* Case Managers/Program Staff: They are responsible for understanding and reinforcing this policy in their interactions with individuals.
* CEO/Leadership: The CEO and leadership team are responsible for making sure this policy is clearly communicated and consistently applied throughout the organization.
10. Policy Review and Revision
This policy will be reviewed annually by the CEO and Board of Directors, or more often as needed, to make sure it remains effective and aligned with our organizational practices and legal requirements. Any updates will be shared with all relevant personnel and individuals.