International Studies & Programs

Home > Community Volunteers > Code of Ethics

Code of Ethics

Community Volunteers for International Programs (CVIP) is a non-profit organization based at Michigan State University with over 50 years experience enhancing cultural exchange and building international understanding. Our mission is to increase cross-cultural understanding and goodwill between the Greater Lansing Community and MSU international students, families and visitors.


Community Volunteers for International Programs (CVIP) is a volunteer organization supporting OISS at  at Michigan State University. For over 50 years CVIP has enhanced cultural exchange by promoting cross-cultural understanding and goodwill between the Greater Lansing Community and MSU international students, families and visitors.

CVIP asks that anyone participating in our activities follow these guidelines:

  • Demonstrate awareness of, sensitivity to, and respect for other values, beliefs, viewpoints, systems, and cultures.
  • Recognize their own culture and value orientations and be aware of how those orientations affect their interactions with people from other cultures.
  • Respect all persons without regard to race, color, national origin, ethnicity, sex, religion, sexual orientation, marital status, age, political opinion, immigration status, or disability.
  • Avoid proselytizing. Proselytizing is defined as unsolicited, coercive, manipulative and/or hidden persuasion that seeks to influence others to adopt another way of thinking, believing or behaving, particularly in relation to religious and political views.
  • Refrain from exploiting, threatening, coercing, disrespecting, or sexually harassing others.
  • Seek appropriate guidance and direction when faced with ethical dilemmas.
  • Follow all MSU rules governing students and volunteers.

Please help us ensure that CVIP is a place where international friendships can truly flourish. Contact us immediately if anyone involved in a CVIP activity does not respect the above guidelines.