=PR= Run Club

Section 1: Our Code of Conduct Policy

1. Our Commitment & Purpose

The =PR= Run Club is dedicated to fostering a positive, welcoming, safe, and inclusive environment for all individuals who share a passion for running and community. This Code of Conduct outlines the expected standards of behavior for everyone participating in our club activities. It ensures that all members, volunteers, and guests feel respected, valued, and secure during club runs, events, social functions, volunteer activities, online interactions, and any other club-related business. Our goal is to build a supportive community where everyone can enjoy running together.

2. Scope

This Code of Conduct applies to all =PR= Run Club members, volunteers, coaches, and guests during any organized club run, training session, race, event, social gathering (in-person or virtual), online club forums/social media groups, and any other occasion where individuals are participating under the banner of the =PR= Run Club.

3. Expected Conduct & Core Values

We expect all participants to uphold the following core values:

Respect: Treat fellow club members, volunteers, coaches, race officials, spectators, and the public with courtesy, dignity, and respect at all times. We value diverse opinions and experiences. Always show respect and appreciation for the volunteers who give their time to help the club and/or events.
Inclusivity: Foster a welcoming atmosphere where everyone feels they belong, regardless of pace, experience level, age, race, ethnicity, religion, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, disability, or any other characteristic.
Safety: Prioritize personal safety and the safety of others. Be mindful of surroundings, follow traffic laws during runs, communicate hazards, and look out for fellow runners.
Integrity & Fair Play: Compete fairly and honestly. Always abide by race rules and engage in fair competition, which includes anti-doping compliance, no course cutting, or other means of gaining a competitive advantage that is considered cheating when participating in club races or other races where you may represent the club by wearing a club-branded singlet, shirt, uniform, etc.

4. Prohibited Conduct

The =PR= Run Club has zero tolerance for the following behaviors:

Harassment & Discrimination: Never use abusive or vulgar language, or make racial, ethnic, or gender-related slurs or derogatory comments. Any form of harassment, including unwelcome jokes or intimidation, is strictly prohibited.
Violence & Threats: Never yell, taunt, or threaten physical violence upon another member of the club, a volunteer, or event spectator. Any behavior that creates a hostile or intimidating environment will not be tolerated. (Note: Members with a criminal history of violence or with a legal restraining order against them by another member may be barred from membership and participation in all club activities).
Unwanted Contact & Sexual Misconduct: Never make unwanted sexual or physical contact with other members. Unwelcome sexual advances, comments, or behaviors are strictly forbidden. (Note: Members found to be listed on a sex offender registry, convicted of a sex crime, or caught having, creating, or distributing child pornography will be immediately barred from membership and all participation in club activities).
Endangerment: Reckless behavior that puts oneself or others at risk of harm.
Unsportsmanlike Conduct: Cheating, violating race rules, disrupting events, or actions that bring the club into disrepute.

5. Reporting Violations

Creating a safe environment is a shared responsibility.

Any individual who experiences or witnesses behavior that violates this Code of Conduct is strongly encouraged and expected to report it.
Always report violations of the Member Code of Conduct policy to the Club Leadership in writing. Reports should be made promptly.
Submit written reports to the =PR= Run Club Club Leadership via bronson@prrunandwalk.com
Reports should include details of the incident (what happened, when, where, who was involved, any witnesses).
The Club Leadership will treat all reports seriously and maintain confidentiality to the greatest extent possible while conducting a thorough and impartial review. Retaliation against anyone reporting a concern in good faith is strictly prohibited.

6. Addressing Violations & Consequences

Upon receiving a written report, the =PR= Run Club Club Leadership will promptly investigate the alleged violation. This may involve discussions with the reporting individual, the individual(s) accused, and any potential witnesses. The individual(s) accused will be given an opportunity to respond to the allegations.
The Club Leadership is committed to addressing violations immediately and swiftly, and fairly.
If a violation of the Code of Conduct is determined to have occurred, the Club Leadership will take appropriate disciplinary action, tailored to the severity and nature of the violation. Consequences may range from:
- A verbal or written warning.
- Temporary suspension from club activities and membership privileges.
- Immediate and permanent termination of membership and exclusion from all future club activities.
The primary goal of any action taken will be to ensure the safety and well-being of club members and uphold the values of the =PR= Run Club.

7. Our Shared Responsibility

By participating in the =PR= Run Club, we all agree to abide by this Code of Conduct. Let's work together to ensure our club remains a positive, supportive, and inspiring community for every runner.

Section 2: Our Commitment to a SafeSport Environment

=PR= Run Club - Our Commitment to a Positive and Safe Environment for All

At =PR= Run Club, we are fundamentally committed to fostering a running community where every single member feels safe, respected, valued, and supported. Enjoying the health benefits and camaraderie of running together requires an environment free from abuse, harassment, and misconduct, and we dedicate ourselves to upholding that standard.

Our Commitment in Action:

Alignment with SafeSport Principles: We strongly support the mission of the U.S. Center for SafeSport. Our club operations and policies are guided by the principles aimed at preventing emotional, physical, and sexual misconduct within sport.
Empowering Through Awareness & Training: We encourage, and may require, our coaches, run leaders, and board members to complete SafeSport training. This knowledge helps us collectively recognize, prevent, and respond effectively to potential misconduct.
Setting Clear Expectations: We maintain a Code of Conduct (described in section 1) that outlines the respectful behavior expected of all members. We also have clear policies addressing bullying, harassment, and abuse to ensure standards are understood.
Providing Clear Reporting Paths: We ensure members have accessible ways to report concerns or potential policy violations without fear of retaliation. Every report will be treated with seriousness and confidentiality, and addressed appropriately.
Building a Positive & Inclusive Culture: Our goal is a culture where safety is intuitive and everyone feels comfortable. We strive for inclusivity and respect, where looking out for one another is the norm, and members feel empowered to speak up.

We firmly believe that a secure and respectful environment is the bedrock upon which the positive experiences and benefits of =PR= Run Club are built. We encourage all members to be familiar with our safety commitments and policies, and to actively participate in maintaining the welcoming and safe community we value.

Section 3: Running Safety Guidelines

=PR= Run Club - Running Safely Together in Our Community

=PR= Run Club is all about enjoying running and our great community here in Midlothian. Keeping each other safe ensures the fun and camaraderie continue strong on every run. Let's all help make that happen by keeping these shared safety practices in mind:

Visibility & Awareness: Be Seen, Be Alert!

Light Up & Brighten Up: Especially for those early morning or evening runs, bright/reflective gear is key! Headlamps/lights are essential when it's dark. Let's assume drivers might not see us and make ourselves visible.
Eyes & Ears Open: Stay alert to your surroundings. If you use headphones, consider keeping one earbud out or the volume low so you can hear traffic, bikes, fellow runners, and run leader calls.
Road Smarts: Remember to run against traffic if there's no sidewalk. Always obey traffic signals and look carefully before crossing – even quiet streets. Eye contact with drivers helps!
Trail Courtesy: On trails (like at Robious Landing or Pocahontas), give a friendly "On your left!" when passing. Be mindful of everyone sharing the path – walkers, cyclists, pets – and watch out for natural obstacles like roots and rocks.

Group Running: Teamwork Makes the Dream Work!

Communicate Clearly: Point out hazards (potholes, ice, roots!) to runners behind you. Hand signals can be helpful too! Good communication keeps the group safe.
Know the Plan: Try to know the route beforehand. If you need to turn back or change plans mid-run, please let a run leader or another runner know.
Run Predictably: Avoid sudden stops or swerves. Stick with your pace group and communicate if you're dropping back or speeding up.
Connect & Look Out for Each Other: Introduce yourself! Running is better with friends. Let's make sure everyone feels included and safe within the group.

Personal Safety & Health: Take Care of You!

Carry Essentials: Please bring ID with emergency contact info and a charged phone. Using a live location app for solo runs before/after group meetups is also a smart idea.
Hydrate & Fuel Right: Especially in that Virginia heat and humidity! Bring water and sip often. Fuel appropriately for the distance and weather.
Listen to Your Body: Don't ignore pain. If you're not feeling well or need help, please tell a run leader or fellow runner.
Dress for Success (and Weather!): Layers for cold, breathable fabrics for heat. Check the forecast! Runs might be cancelled for safety in severe weather (ice, storms) – always check club communications.
Wildlife Watch: Deer and other critters share our space. Be aware, give them distance, and run cautiously if they're near roads or trails.

In Case of Emergency:

If someone needs help, stop to assist. Safety first!
Call 911 immediately for serious situations. Know your location.
Notify a club leader as soon as possible.

Running involves inherent risks, and while these guidelines help, they can't cover everything. Participation is at your own risk. Let's run smart, stay aware, and prioritize taking care of ourselves and each other!