Anyone who receives information of any kind that misconduct related to participant protection has occurred that is connected in any way to individuals or activities associated with any VMBC affiliated, regional, championship event or activity must report the matter immediately to VMBC management and the management of all Participating Groups with which the affected individual(s) are associated.

 

Concerns of noncompliance should first be brought to the leadership of the organization involved, who are expected to investigate the concerns promptly and address them. In addition, VMBC is also available to help an individual connect with the right person of the organization involved to ensure the concern is considered and promptly addressed.

 

PARTICIPANT PROTECTION REPORTING POLICY

VMBC strictly prohibits all conduct which could pose a threat to the safety of participants in VMBC affiliated, regional, or championship event. This policy sets forth VMBC’s expectation that all individuals associated with VMBC affiliated, regional, or championship events shall report certain kinds of misconduct without exception.

 

Who is covered by this policy?

Everyone associated with any VMBC affiliated, regional, or championship event is covered by this policy, including without limitation all Participating Group personnel, VMBC personnel, Contest Judges, Event Administrators, volunteers, and performers.

 

What is expected under this policy?

Anyone who receives information of any kind (oral or written, “informal” or “formal”) suggesting that misconduct related to participant safety has occurred that is connected in any way to individuals or activities associated with any VMBC affiliated, regional, championship event or activity must report the matter immediately to VMBC management and the management of all Participating Groups with which the affected individual(s) are associated. A report to an appropriate law enforcement agency may also be appropriate and is always available, in the discretion of the person who receives information regarding potential misconduct. Misconduct related to participant safety that is covered by this policy includes:

 

• Any misconduct of a sexual nature or potentially classifiable as a sex offense under applicable law, including without limitation so-called “victim-less” activities such as prostitution, pornography, and indecent exposure;

• Any misconduct in which actual or suggested sexual relations is an element;

• Any harassing conduct pertaining to, in whole or in part, an individual’s sex, gender, sexual orientation, or gender expression; and

• Any conduct involving harm to a minor.

 

What action will be taken?

Upon receiving a report of any such misconduct, VMBC and the Participating Group shall conduct an effective internal investigation, report the matter to the appropriate law enforcement authorities as may be necessary, and take appropriate and effective remedial action under the circumstances.

 

Anyone found to have participated in misconduct that threatens the safety of a participant will be disciplined as VMBC finds appropriate, up to and including a permanent ban from association with any VMBC-sanctioned event in any capacity. VMBC will not retaliate against anyone for reporting suspected misconduct or for participating in an investigation or inquiry, and VMBC will not tolerate retaliation by any person or entity associated with any VMBC-sanctioned event.

 

How can reports be made?

A report can be made via VMBC website using the online Incident Reporting Form (below), selecting the contact us option at the bottom of this webpage, or directly to any member of VMBC’s management team.

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INCIDENT REPORTING

The Virginia Marching Band Cooperative (VMBC) provides a venue for young people to achieve the extraordinary through performance and competition. VMBC values every participant, staff, volunteer and fan as a unique individual with inherent dignity regardless of race, gender, creed, sexual orientation, origin or cultural background. We are committed to fostering positive and safe learning, performing, and working environments for all.

 

It is important for all members of our community to know how to address concerns that may be contrary to this commitment. VMBC has set expectations for the conduct and compliance for everyone associated with any VMBC event. Those expectations and standards are available in the previous section.

 

Concerns of noncompliance should first be brought to the leadership of the organization involved, who are expected to investigate the concerns promptly and address them. Allegations of misconduct or noncompliance with VMBC policy can also be reported directly to VMBC. This includes ethics concerns, as well as alleged violations of VMBC’s values, code of conduct, and policies prohibiting discrimination, harassment, sexual misconduct, and retaliation. In addition, VMBC is available to help an individual connect with the right person of the organization involved to ensure the concern is considered and promptly addressed.

 

To report an ethics concern or alleged noncompliance, or to seek support from a VMBC staff member in reporting such an issue, please contact us using the online form below. For reports submitted with a means of contact, VMBC will respond within five (5) business days.