USPS strives to be a good neighbor in every community it serves.
This is why the organization has a Community Service Activities Policy that aims to help Postal Service employees contribute to the health and well-being of their communities in a manner that’s consistent with their postal duties and obligations.
The policy requires employees to obtain approval prior to committing postal resources for a community service activity. The procedures for requesting approval are described in section 333.7 of the Administrative Support Manual.
To receive approval, the activity:
- Cannot be something that is religious or political in nature
- Must be something that existed before any postal involvement
- Must fit into one of these categories: assisting victims of a disaster, relieving hunger, promoting wellness, promoting education and literacy, promoting child safety and well-being, and enhancing the environment
Employees must use PS Form 3337-A to submit a Community Service Activities Policy approval request. The form includes submission instructions. Disregard of the policy could result in a misuse of government position, time or property violation of ethics regulations.
Additionally, USPS wants employees to know that participation in the National Association of Letter Carriers’ annual food drive is not covered by the Community Service Activities Policy. This activity is covered by an agreement between the union and the Postal Service.
Throughout 2019, USPS is educating employees about the federal government’s principles and standards of ethical conduct. In addition to the Community Service Activities Policy, the campaign has covered misuse of position, avoiding conflicts of interest and the general standards of ethical conduct.
Employees who have questions about the policy should contact the Ethics Office or an area law office.