Introduction

The use of un-prescribed drugs or alcoholic beverages while in the service of Chattanooga Endeavors is inconsistent with the behavior expected of those entrusted with the organization’s mission of second chances because it trivializes the gravity of substance use disorders which are common among those served by the organization. It also subjects others to unacceptable safety risks and undermines the organization’s ability to operate effectively and efficiently in good stewardship of the charitable resources entrusted to it.

Policy

Chattanooga Endeavors strictly prohibits the use, sale, dispensing, or possession of un-prescribed drugs or alcoholic beverages by volunteers, board members, employees, and clients both in the workplace and when representing the organization outside the workplace, during community events and activities where the organization is involved in any way, or while engaged in volunteer service for the organization.

Practices

  1. Employees will be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including termination, for bringing illegal drugs and narcotics or alcoholic beverages to work; using or being under
    the influence of such substances while working; or dispensing, distributing, or selling on CEi premises.
  2. Abuse of alcohol to the extent that it negatively, consistently affects the employee’s work performance may be considered alcoholism. If the employee shows a desire to overcome
    the problem, CEi will help the employee in his/her efforts toward rehabilitation. If the employee is unwilling to seek assistance, or if rehabilitation efforts are unsuccessful, the
    employee will be terminated in accordance with CEi employee discipline procedures.
  3. An employee who is diagnosed as a drug abuser or alcoholic may be granted a medical leave of absence to undertake rehabilitation treatment. All guidelines for medical leave
    apply. The employee will not be permitted to return to work until certification is presented that the employee is capable of performing his/her job. Failure to cooperate
    with an agreed-upon treatment plan may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination.

Violation of this policy will lead to disciplinary action, up to and including termination of service with Chattanooga Endeavors.