Member Handbook
Plano Phone: 972-769-BIND (2463)
Fort Worth Phone: 682-255-7373
Website: www.thebind.org
Email: help@thebind.org
@thebindorg on all Social Media Platforms
Diana Diaz, Executive Director: binexecdir@thebind.org
Tara Judd Longley, Development Director: tara@thebind.org
Lissette Glashan, Plano Program Director: liz@thebind.org
Cristy Dobbs, Fort Worth Program Director: cristy@thebind.org
Jasmine Cantu, Plano Unit Coordinator: jasmine@thebind.org
Emily Thompson, Plano Unit Coordinator: emily@thebind.org
Board Of Directors / Grievance Email: BOD@thebind.org
BIN provides tools and a bridge of support to brain injury survivors so they can reconnect into life, the community and workplace.
Our Vision
BIN will lead the DFW area in providing member-driven services and serve as the model for Brain Injury Clubhouses across the state of Texas.
We provide an environment that fosters:
Established by BIN Members in February of 2015, the BIN Clubhouses’ core values are:
Brain Injury Network strives to provide an environment free of architectural, environmental, attitudinal, employment, and communication barriers, and continually attempts to identify and remove any barriers. The organization further works toward removing transportation and financial resource barriers for members. If you feel there are barriers to your access or ability to use our services, please contact staff. We develop an access plan at least yearly to identify and remove barriers, and encourage feedback from members, families, and other stakeholders.
As an active member of IBICA: International Brain Injury Clubhouse Alliance, BIN is committed to human rights and we value having a diverse, welcoming, and accepting environment. To that end, we have always worked to build people up and make our communities a better place for everyone through equal opportunity and inclusion. We cannot achieve this while racial discrimination exists, and we encourage everyone to do the difficult work of examining personal bias and confronting systemic racism. We must demand more from our governments, our communities, and ourselves. Integral to the Clubhouse Model framework through which we operate is the respect and value of diverse life experiences and heritages and assurance that everyone is heard. We are committed to addressing the systematic work of acknowledging and dismantling any inequities within our own policies, systems, programs, and services, and continually update and report organization progress.
This organization encourages any staff, member, volunteer, intern, or visitor with a question, suggestion, concern or complaint about how policies are being implemented to use the “Open Door Policy” and speak directly and honestly to their supervisor, to the Executive Director or the Board of Directors. No individual will be subject to retaliation for reporting concerns or raising questions.
BIN will not tolerate harassment of staff, members, volunteers, interns, or visitors of the facility. Harassment may include verbal or physical conduct and/or the display of written or graphic materials which:
Sexual harassment, whether in the Clubhouse itself or during outside BIN sponsored activities is unacceptable and will not be tolerated. Sexual harassment is defined as unwelcome sexual advances, request for sexual favors and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature. Sexual harassment may include a range of subtle and not so subtle behaviors between individuals of different sexes or individuals of the same sex. Depending on the circumstances, these behaviors may include, but are not limited to:
The responsibility of administering and enforcing the organization’s sexual harassment policy is shared by all staff, volunteers, directors, program members, and student interns; however, ultimate responsibility is assigned to the Executive Director, who will ensure that the policy is disseminated to all parties mentioned. Every person of BIN is accountable for acting in compliance with and support of the policy.
BIN will not tolerate abuse, neglect or exploitation of staff, members, volunteers, interns, or visitors at the facility. Suspected abuse, neglect or exploitation of any program member, in particular, will be swiftly and efficiently addressed and/or reported as required by law and/or organizational policies and procedures. Texas law requires any mandated reporter who thinks a child, or person 65 years or older, or an adult with a disability is being abused, neglected, or exploited must report it to DFPS: Department of Family and Protective Services by phone (1-800-252-5400) or through online reporting DFPS - Report Abuse or Neglect. Please refer to the organization’s Policies and Procedures for additional information.
BIN has zero tolerance for conduct that threatens, intimidates or coerces staff, members, volunteers, interns, visitors, or any other public citizens at any time while on property or while engaged in BIN business. Firearms, weapons and other dangerous or hazardous devices or substances are prohibited from BIN premises. All threats of violence, or suspicious individuals or activities are to be reported as soon as possible to staff.
Respecting the privacy of our members, donors, staff, and volunteers of the BIN itself is a basic value of the organization. Personal and financial information is confidential and should not be disclosed or discussed with anyone without permission or authorization from the Executive Director or President of the Board of Directors. Care shall also be taken to ensure that unauthorized individuals do not overhear any discussion of confidential information and that documents containing confidential information are not left in the open or inadvertently shared.
Members may be exposed to information that is confidential or privileged and proprietary in nature. It is the policy of BIN that such information must be kept confidential both during and after clubhouse membership. Members are expected to return all materials containing privileged or confidential information at the time of separation from the program.
Unauthorized disclosure of confidential or privileged information is a serious violation of this policy and will subject the person(s) who made the unauthorized disclosure to appropriate discipline, including an immediate warning or termination. (See Confidentiality Policy for further information).
Confidential information may include, but is not limited to:
Intellectual property includes the property, slogans, copyright or trademark-protected written material or artwork created, made by, or originated by management or other authorized agent of BIN and shall be the sole and exclusive property of the organization. Material created for publicity or educational purposes by anyone that uses the BIN logos or any other intellectual property, in part or in whole without expressive consent of the Executive Director is subject to disciplinary action including termination and legal action.
Brain Injury Network does not provide legal witnessing services for any legal documents, including but not limited to, powers of attorney, wills, contracts, or other official legal documents. As such, we are unable to act as a witness for the execution of any such documents. We recommend that individuals seek assistance from an authorized legal professional or other certified witnesses, as required by the relevant laws and regulations in your jurisdiction.
Brain Injury Network is a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization classified as a public charity by the IRS. Our funding and income comes from individual donations, government grants, foundation support, fundraising events, corporate support, and contracts.
A donor is defined as a person, entity, or business that provides a financial / cash or in-kind item of value to the organization. Brain Injury Network follows the best practice of adhering to the Donor Bill of Rights. Our tax documents, annual audits, and impact reports can be found on our website under the About Us section under "Our Financials." Refer to our Financial Management policy or to the Development Director for more information.
It is essential that we fulfill our mission and our commitment to the clubhouse. For this reason, staff, interns, and volunteers, are expected to keep relationships with members, caregivers, visitors, and other third parties impartial and appropriate. To do this, we must avoid accepting gifts or other items of significant value ($25 or more) including, but not limited to: meals; event tickets; special favors; loans; discounts; free services; tips; and gratuities. Remember, cash and cash equivalents, such as gift cards, are never to be accepted. We discourage staff from accepting gifts from members or their families or friends. Gifts valued at less than $100, such as an occasional consumable gift (e.g., baked goods, coffee) shared among the Clubhouse is acceptable.
Members may purchase goods sold by Brain Injury Network consistent with the manner in which the general public may make purchases. This includes but is not limited to goods sold in onsite food services, the BIN Store, and any online or onsite sale of goods produced by Brain Injury Network. Unless specifically noted, no discounts or other incentives will be applicable. Staff is prohibited from purchasing goods or services from persons receiving services of any nature. Members may not solicit their own goods or services in the clubhouse or while representing Brain Injury Network.
Federal and State laws prohibit and place restrictions on organization contributions to or receipt of donations from activities in connection with elections for political office or other political activities. Accordingly, neither our assets nor sponsorship from our organization may be used to make any contribution or otherwise provide assistance for any political party, candidate for public office, political fundraising campaign committee or other such organizations in connection with any federal, state or local election. This policy applies not only to direct financial contributions, but also to indirect assistance such as the furnishing of goods, services, equipment, facilities or other assistance. This policy also applies to the purchase of tickets for dinners or other political fundraising events or advertising space in political publications.
This policy is not intended to discourage or prohibit members from making personal political contributions or otherwise engaging in personal political activities of their choice. Members may use their own assets to make personal political contributions to the parties, candidates, or organizations of their choice or otherwise engage in political activities of their choosing. Members should not, however, use their personal assets to make political contributions or otherwise undertake political activities for or on behalf of BIN.
Reported offenses by members, employees and volunteers will be taken seriously and addressed in a timely manner by the Executive Director or by other designated individuals in leadership. However, it is encouraged that comments, concerns or complaints be first directed to the person in question with care taken to show respect and courtesy. If the attempt at mutual problem solving remains unresolved, reporting to the next level in charge is encouraged. If further attempts at conflict resolution are unsettled or if a comment, concern or complaint relates to the actions of the Executive Director, a grievance may be reported to the Board of Directors by sending a detailed written report by email to: BOD@thebind.org. Care will be taken to resolve such grievances within 30 days of receipt.
Members are expected to interact in a safe, courteous and professional manner that promotes quality and mutual respect in a productive environment for everyone. Although we strive to provide support and coaching for inappropriate behaviors that may occur as a result of acquired brain injury, some behaviors are so serious or disruptive that they may require a referral to a more specialized service provider to address the individual's needs.
Members must have a documented acquired brain injury, be at least 18 years old, manage independent activities of daily living (e.g. toileting, feeding, and medication management), ambulate independently, or use mobility devices independently, not be a safety risk to themselves or others, and be willing to participate in the work-ordered day.
See Health & Safety section for more information.
The collection of member dues was eliminated on September 1, 2020. However, members can make a tax-deductible contribution to BIN if and whenever they desire. BIN relies upon the generosity of numerous organizations and individuals to provide clubhouse services, including donations received from members and their friends and family.
Depersonalized program data may be shared with organizations for funding or research purposes.
Members are asked to arrive on clubhouse premises after 8:45 am. Members should be picked up from the clubhouse before 3:15 pm. Staff can assist with contacting caregivers, rideshare service or paratransit service if they are consistently late or too early.
When onsite, members are expected to check in when they arrive and check out each time they leave the premises, including lunch breaks away from the building. This is essential to keep track of who is onsite in case of an emergency. The member day begins at 9 a.m. and members are expected to arrive in a timely manner for participation in the morning meeting which begins at 9:15. It is expected that members will stay for the entire day when they attend and depart the premises at the end of the program day, which is 3:00 p.m.
Please report onsite absences as soon as possible by calling the program or by sending an email to your clubhouse’s program director.
Members are expected to report to the clubhouse clean, well-groomed, and appropriately dressed in clothing consistent with safety and professionalism standards. Clothing should not be revealing or make others feel uncomfortable. Certain types of shoes may be discouraged if they pose an increased fall risk. Members are required to wear their clubhouse name badge during the work-ordered day. Staff are responsible for addressing dress code violations in a respectful manner. Non-compliance may result in a discussion, and if necessary, a request to adjust attire or leave and return appropriately dressed.
Maintaining a safe work environment requires the continuous cooperation of all employees, members and volunteers. BIN strongly encourages members to communicate with fellow members, employees, and volunteers regarding safety issues.
Members will be asked to provide accurate emergency contact information during orientation and to update changes to this information promptly. You may provide any additional medical information you deem necessary. All members will be provided first-aid care and emergency service, as required, for injuries or illnesses while on BIN premises. Members should contact staff in the event of a serious or life-threatening accident or emergency. Confidential and/or emergency contact information may be provided to emergency personnel on an as needed basis. Safety drills will be conducted routinely. Additionally, we ask that you report any observed safety hazards to staff immediately.
Any member of the program may be asked to leave the property if they present with signs or symptoms of a communicable or infectious disease, suspicious or threatening behaviors, suspected serious and/or unmanaged symptoms of mental illness or other acute illness that could potentially pose a health risk to self or others. These may include but are not limited to skin rash, open wound, fever, lethargy, significant recurring seizures, elevated heart rate, elevated blood pressure, significant cough/congestion, increased fall risk, or suspicious and/or threatening behaviors. Any person may be denied services due to persisting signs or symptoms of communicable or infectious disease or other acute illness and BIN has the authority to continue to deny services until the person presents current documented proof of health by a physician.
Health is not only your physical wellbeing, but also your mental and emotional wellbeing. Use your best judgement to determine if coming to the clubhouse will improve your mood or impact others’ negatively.
Members will be responsible for the administration of their own medication (prescription or over the counter) and for the safe use and management of assistive devices while at BIN or while attending any BIN-sponsored function associated with BIN. Members may use assistive devices such as alarms or medication boxes; however, members are only allowed to store medication or assistive devices onsite with the approval of the Executive Director or Program Director.
The use, sale, purchase, distribution, possession, or presence of drugs and/or alcohol while on the BIN premises, during clubhouse hours, or when conducting BIN business on or off-site is strictly prohibited. The prescribed use of drugs is permitted only if it does not adversely impair a member’s ability to complete Clubhouse work effectively and in a safe manner. Abuse or misuse of drugs, alcohol, or any household/cleaning products may also be considered a violation of our code of conduct if such conduct threatens to adversely affect a member’s performance, safety, or well-being.
Smoking, vaping, and chewing tobacco are only allowed in the outdoor designated area(s) as determined by city ordinance. The practice of sharing vapes or cigarettes by members should emphasize personal responsibility. If you do not feel comfortable doing so, don’t.
On occasion BIN may participate in special events where alcohol is served. In such circumstances, members are expected to exercise good judgment and uphold the mission and values of our organization.
BIN will close onsite and virtual services on major holidays. The holidays recognized for closure by BIN are: New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, President’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day (4th of July), Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, Friday after Thanksgiving (Black Friday), Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and any days that these holidays are observed.
Low member attendance, weather or facility conditions, and availability of volunteer or staff support may influence additional dates of closure. Other closures may be announced for staff development days as necessary. Every effort will be made to notify Members of unexpected closures - it is important that you provide accurate contact information to staff and update any changes to your contact information promptly.
After signing the appropriate acknowledgements, staff are permitted, but are not required, to provide transportation for members in their personal vehicles to BIN outings, events and clubhouses. Volunteers and staff can and should provide members with assistance locating and scheduling public transportation options. BIN volunteers and interns are not allowed to provide transportation to BIN members.
Use of the Internet must be business appropriate and used with good judgment. Technology and all things related that are provided to access and utilize BIN systems, networks and the internet are intended for business use only and remain at all times the property of BIN. We reserve the right to monitor usage, retrieve and read any electronic data to ensure compliance with this policy.
Although this largely applies to our onsite computers and related equipment, BIN may provide members with remote access to platforms and other communication tools (i.e. Google Suite, Email, Zoom, etc). Access to onsite or offsite electronic platforms, email systems, and other communication tools may be removed at the time a member separates from the program.
Business of the clubhouse must be done ONLY during clubhouse hours and with the clubhouse phone or work unit emails, unless explicitly given permission from program staff. Outreach (calls made from BIN) completed must be tracked appropriately in the outreach unit. Members, volunteers, donors, etc. phone numbers, emails, and other contact information should not leave the clubhouse without express consent from that individual.
Do not use BIN domain emails to make accounts on any social media platforms or websites (i.e. Facebook, Instagram, Zoom) without explicit permission from program staff. If you get a pop-up, error, email, etc. you are unsure about while at the clubhouse, immediately notify staff.
If computers are used for personal use after the work-ordered day, members must take personal responsibility to ensure that they are logged out of any personal accounts and that passwords or financial information is not saved onto the computers. BIN is not responsible for any consequences that may occur as a result of personal information being left on our computers.
The use of our computer systems or communication tools in ways that could be considered harassment or discrimination including, but not limited to, sharing offensive or sexually explicit material is prohibited. Use of onsite BIN computers or offsite platforms and communication tools to download games, engage in gambling, view or share pornography or other offensive content are examples of behaviors that are unacceptable. Additionally, using off site communication tools and platforms to inappropriately invite, solicit, insult, share inappropriate material, or release confidential information about or with other members is prohibited.
The purpose of the private Facebook group “Ties That BIND” is to maintain personal connections with fellow members. Official BIN updates or questions must go through the proper BIN channels (the public Brain Injury Network business page or website) and be communicated to staff directly. Membership in this group is maintained by the group admin, which is a member, not staff. Membership is only for members and their caregivers. Membership questions must be answered and agreement to the group rules is required in order to get group approval. Posts are subject to review by the admin and may be removed if inappropriate.
Accepting social media follower or friend requests from fellow members is a personal decision and not mandatory. Use your best judgment when responding to requests or messages that ask for private information or before clicking links.
BIN staff, interns, and volunteers are encouraged not to accept follower or friend requests from members, but may do so at their discretion and their boundaries must be respected. The only appropriate way to contact staff is through email or calling the clubhouse directly. If you have express permission from staff, interns, or volunteers to contact them at a personal number, appropriate workplace and individual boundaries must be respected. Phone numbers, emails, and other contact information should not be shared without explicit permission from that staff member, intern, or volunteer.
Information about the organization may be published publicly on the BIN website and various social media platforms. Members are encouraged to engage in positive support for the organization through its social media platforms.
Caution must be exercised when creating, posting, photographing or otherwise publishing content in print, online or on social media outlets that specifically identifies a BIN member, staff, intern, volunteer, director, visitor, donor or sponsor without their specific consent. In regard to virtual programming, members are encouraged (and can be assisted by staff) to remove their last name from their visible login name or title.
Additionally, BIN does not support nor lobby for any individual political candidate, political party nor does BIN support a particular religious viewpoint or place of worship. Members will refrain from linking the organization, whether implied or explicitly to public posts of a political or religious nature. This subject is further described in the section “Political & Lobbying Activities.”
When program members are contacted by media/press representatives, only the Executive Director, Board President, or other individual(s) designated by the Board are authorized to speak with the media on behalf of BIN. Specific procedures related to communication with media representatives are further explained in the BIN Policies and Procedures manual.
This organization does not seek to regulate the personal, off-site conduct of its members. However, members will be subject to disciplinary action for engaging in off-site conduct that threatens to or adversely impacts clubhouse performance, the safety or performance of others, the well-being of our members, the public, our reputation or other legitimate business interests of the organization. This organization will plan and participate in both facility and off-site fundraising activities and will enforce the contents of this code of conduct during such events. Members who are arrested, charged or convicted in connection with a felony or serious misdemeanor offense are required to promptly report such matters to staff.
The organization’s conflict management method is to utilize de-escalation and the disciplinary process. Disciplinary action will be taken in a timely manner and with increasingly serious consequences to eliminate unacceptable conduct and eliminate performance problems. However, certain types of misconduct are so serious they may justify immediate suspension or removal from the Clubhouse program for a duration set out by a peer-led team. Both verbal and written warnings (incident reports) can be initiated and executed by anyone involved or witness to the incident, with assistance as needed. The process is as follows:
1. Verbal warning
2. Written warning (Incident Report)
3. Termination: Possible suspension or removal from the Clubhouse program based on peer review decision.
Brain Injury Network clubhouses are members of the International Brain Injury Clubhouse Alliance (IBICA) and follow the standards set by the organization. The IBICA standards serve as a bill of rights for members and can be found on our website at www.thebind.org/standards. Brain Injury Network has a responsibility to inform, protect, and promote the rights of all persons we work with and all people with disabilities. Clubhouses promote self-advocacy and provide information and guidance for those rights. As a clubhouse member, you have the right to decide what services you need and to tell us your interests and needs. You are the person who guides your services and chooses staff to support your goals, if they are consistent with the work-ordered day and clubhouse. You have the right to request a copy of your personal records from the clubhouse. If we are unable to provide a service for you, we will assist in finding additional resources as necessary. This handbook does not include all rights but is a guide to your rights. If you want more information, please see staff.
___________ I acknowledge that I have received a copy of the BIN: Brain Injury Network Member Handbook on ___________ (Today’s Date). I will seek clarification if there is anything in the Handbook that I do not understand.
___________ I agree to abide by the Clubhouse Code of Conduct and understand that it applies to both virtual/online and onsite programs. I understand that disciplinary action may be taken if my behavior or actions violate this code or if I endanger myself, other members, staff, or volunteers of the Clubhouse program. I also understand that I have the right to review any incident report involving my conduct, accident, or injury.
___________ I understand that the handbook states the organization’s policies and practices in effect on the date of publication and signing and that these policies and procedures are continually evaluated and may be amended, modified or terminated at any time.
__________ I understand that the BIN may disclose members’ addresses or other personal information as needed to support funding from public payor sources.
__________ I CONSENT __________ I DO NOT CONSENT that BIN may use my last name for identification purposes. Examples of when last names may be used are, but not limited to, emergency situations, attendance tracking, and other administrative uses.
__________ I GIVE / __________ I DO NOT give permission to BIN to take and use my picture, film or record me and/or use my artwork for the purpose of community relations, fundraising, social media, or education related to BIN. By choosing to give BIN permission, I understand that my photo or artwork may be used for publication or broadcast and BIN may use my first name with it.
__________ I will use caution when sharing photographs taken at the BIN Clubhouses, during virtual services and at all BIN-sponsored events. I will seek the permission of any other person(s) in photos or videos I take before posting on social media.
___________ I understand that arranging transportation to/from the BIN clubhouses or any BIN-related events in the community is my responsibility, although BIN staff can assist me with applying for or navigating public transportation options. Asking other BIN members for a ride in their personal vehicles is discouraged and BIN is not responsible for the safety of members who elect to rideshare.
__________ I understand that BIN provides numerous opportunities to engage in or learn about research projects, health initiatives/education, alternative treatments, therapeutic products, or other services. I understand that it is my personal choice to engage in any of these opportunities and that it is my responsibility to consult with my caregiver and/or physician about such services or products.
__________ I understand that BIN routinely provides opportunities to engage in physical wellness activities. I will consult my caregiver and/or physician about any potential risks or limitations I should be cautious about and discuss any physical restrictions or health-related precautions with staff and volunteers when necessary. Current precautions or restrictions include:
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__________ I understand that BIN will not release any information about members, staff or volunteers of the clubhouse, except in the case of emergency. BIN staff or volunteers may discuss anything related to my membership and participation at BIN Clubhouses with my emergency contact and emergency service providers. If I would like staff to communicate with a 3rd party, I will communicate with staff about the information needed.
__________ I agree to work with staff to update the system of record information regarding contact and emergency contact information.
Please sign and date this form and return it to the Program Director.
Member Signature: ________________________________________________________
Print Name: _______________________________________________________________
Date: ____________________________