Information Technology

AI Policy

Updated: August 2026

Guiding Principles for the Ethical and Effective Use of AI

Purpose This policy outlines the approach Canines For Change takes regarding the use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools and technologies. As AI continues to evolve at a rapid pace, our focus is on defining the values that guide our use of these tools across all disciplines, from design and copywriting to strategy, web, PR, and beyond.

Our Approach to AI Canines For Change embraces AI as a powerful tool for creativity, efficiency, and innovation, but not as a replacement for human judgment, relationships, or responsibility. We commit to using AI in a way that protects our clients, enhances our work, and strengthens our reputation.

  1. Principles That Guide Our Use of AI

    1.1 Human First AI doesn’t lead our work; people do. We use AI to enhance creativity and productivity, not to replace human insight, strategy, or connection. Human involvement and final review are always part of the process.

    1.2 Transparency

    We are upfront with clients about how we use AI in our workflows. If AI plays a role in the creation of a deliverable, we are prepared to explain how it was used and why.

    1.3 Innovation with Intention

    We encourage responsible experimentation with emerging AI tools to enhance creativity, workflows, and business results. New tools are evaluated regularly, and internal teams are empowered to learn and share insights.

    1.4 Respect for Privacy and IP

    We handle all data, including client assets and proprietary information, with the utmost care. Any AI usage must align with our confidentiality standards and applicable privacy agreements.

    1.5 Quality and Credibility

    AI is only used in partnership with reputable, secure platforms. We require all tools to meet high standards for safety, reliability, and transparency before they’re integrated into client-facing work.

  2. Ownership and Accountability

    2.1 Intellectual Property Our work is always created with human oversight and intention. When AI is involved, the human directing or editing the work is considered the author. All work remains the property of our clients under standard work-for-hire terms.

    2.2 Data Responsibility

    We do not input sensitive or confidential client information into third-party AI tools unless we are confident in the tool’s privacy practices, and we avoid doing so entirely when client privacy agreements prohibit it.

    Basic identifiers, such as client names, industries, or publicly available company data, may be used in AI tools for purposes like research or analytics, provided no private, sensitive, or confidential details are shared.

    Safeguarding client data is non-negotiable. When in doubt, employees are expected to check with leadership before entering any client-related content into AI platforms.

  3. Staying Informed and Adaptable

    3.1 Learning Culture

    We promote ongoing education, dialogue, and shared learning about AI across teams. As tools and norms shift, so will our internal practices, always guided by this policy.

    3.2 Evolving Practices

    We periodically revisit this policy to stay aligned with the pace of change and the needs of our clients and team. Flexibility is baked into our approach.

    1. Client Communication and Consent

    4.1 Transparency and Choice

    Clients deserve to know how their work is created. We’re always prepared to explain how AI tools may be used and why. If preferred, clients can request that no AI tools be used in the creation of their deliverables.

    4.2 Thoughtful Use in Meetings

    AI tools such as meeting transcription bots or notetakers will not be used in client meetings unless explicit consent has been given in advance.

    1. Internal Oversight and Training

    5.1 Staff Responsibility

    All employees using AI are expected to:

    • Understand and follow this policy
    • Recognize when data is sensitive or protected
    • Use only trusted, approved tools
    • Ask questions when unsure

    5.2 Training and Accountability

    We provide ongoing training to ensure all staff understand how to use AI responsibly and in compliance with Canines For Change’s privacy standards. Any misuse or mishandling of client data or AI tools will be addressed swiftly and seriously.

Conclusion

Canines For Change’s AI policy is not a fixed playbook; it’s a living framework built on values. We lead with creativity, operate with integrity, and evolve with technology. AI will continue to shape our industry, and we’re committed to shaping it responsibly.