ORANGE COUNTY ASIAN AND PACIFIC ISLANDER COMMUNITY ALLIANCE

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r Subject: Child Protection Policy Introduction The Orange County Asian and Pacific Islander Community Alliance (OCAPICA) supports the rights of children and is committed to their safety and well-being. OCAPICA's staff members and those working with OCAPICA share a common responsibility and commitment to the awareness, prevention, and reporting of and responding to child abuse in the course of their work. OCAPICA's Child Protection Policy set out common values, principles, and beliefs and describes the steps that will be taken to meet our commitment to protect children. Scope This policy applies to all part-time, full-time, and casual OCAPICA employees, consultants, interns and volunteers (hereinafter: OCAPICA staff or staff) as well as sub -contractors and collaborative partners (hereinafter: partners) working with OCAPICA on the implementation of programs and services. Definitions Child — For the purpose of this policy, the definition of a child is "every human being below the age of 18 years unless under the law applicable to the child, majority is attained earlier." This is in accordance with Article 1 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of a Child. Child Abuse — We define child abuse as all forms of physical or mental violence, injury or abuse, neglect or negligent treatment, maltreatment or exploitation, including commercial exploitation, secual abuse while in the care of parent(s), legal guardian(s), or any other person who has the care of the child. Principles and values The following principles and values reflect OCAPICA's stand on child protection: Zero tolerance of child abuse: OCAPICA does not tolerate any form of child abuse, nor does it tolerate possession or access to any material that is abusive towards children. Guidance and training on child protection risk management is provided to OCAPICA staff. OCAPICA will not knowingly engage anyone who poses a direct risk to children. Recognition of children's interests: OCAPICA recognizes that some children are at greater risk of abuse. • Of particular vulnerability are children with disabilities, children in conflict situations, as well as children in natural or post -natural situations. 12900 garden grove blvd, suite 214a I garden grove, california 92843 1 phone: 714.636.9095 1 fax: 714.636.8828 1 www.ocapico.org orange county asian and pacific islander community alliance EXHIBIT A