Code of Conduct & Ethical Standards
Xiente is committed to conducting all business in accordance with the highest ethical standards, in full compliance with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Administrative, National, and Departmental Policy Requirements.
Code of Conduct & Ethical Standards
Xiente is committed to conducting all business in accordance with the highest ethical standards, in full compliance with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Administrative, National, and Departmental Policy Requirements.
Commitment to Ethical Standards
All officers, employees, board members, and agents of Xiente are expected to act with integrity, accountability, and transparency in their relationships with clients, partners, vendors, and the communities we serve. These standards ensure public trust and reinforce Xiente's mission to advance economic mobility and community transformation.
Code of Conduct for Procurement (2 CFR 200.318(c))
In accordance with federal regulations:
An up-to-date, signed Code of Conduct is maintained and available in HUD's Code of Conduct e-library as required.
- Xiente maintains written standards of conduct governing the procurement of property and services.
- These standards apply to all employees, officers, board members, and agents engaged in the selection, award, or administration of contracts supported by federal funds.
- Xiente ensures that no real or apparent conflict of interest compromises procurement decisions.
Conflict of Interest Policy
General Prohibition
No employee, officer, board member, or agent of Xiente — nor any immediate family member or affiliated organization — may:
- Obtain a financial interest or benefit from HUD-funded activities
- Participate in decisions where a real or perceived conflict exists
- Benefit from contracts, subcontracts, or agreements tied to Xiente-funded programs
Disclosure Requirements
All staff must promptly disclose any actual or potential conflicts to the Executive Director. Failure to disclose may result in disciplinary action, including termination. Any identified organizational conflict must be disclosed in writing to the awarding agency.
Immediate Family Definition
Includes spouse, parents, children, siblings, grandparents, grandchildren, in-laws, domestic partners, and household members.
Standards on Gifts and Gratuities
To protect integrity and prevent undue influence:
- Employees may not accept gifts, gratuities, or favors exceeding $25 in value from clients, vendors, or partners.
- Employees may not offer gifts to clients, minors, or vendors without prior written approval.
Administrative and Disciplinary Actions
Violations of this Code of Conduct will result in appropriate administrative or disciplinary measures, including:
Xiente maintains zero tolerance for ethical violations that compromise program integrity or public trust.
- Corrective action plans
- Suspension or termination of employment
- Removal from board service
- Referral for civil or criminal enforcement when warranted
HUD Reporting & Compliance Requirements
To remain eligible for HUD funding, Xiente:
- Maintains and submits its Code of Conduct to HUD
- Discloses any potential conflicts of interest
- Ensures all procurement and operational policies meet federal requirements
Why This Matters
Xiente operates in communities where over 90% of families served are living below the poverty line, facing systemic barriers to housing, employment, and economic mobility. Maintaining strong ethical standards is essential to:
- Protect public resources
- Ensure equitable access to services
- Build trust with families navigating pathways out of poverty