Responsible AI Policy

Effective date: February 1, 2026

1. Purpose

The purpose of this Artificial Intelligence (AI) Policy is to establish guidelines for the responsible, ethical, and secure use of AI technologies within Mentor & Match Corporation. As a company dedicated to connecting mentors and mentees for professional growth and development, we recognize the potential of AI to enhance our matching algorithms, personalize user experiences, and improve operational efficiency. However, we are committed to ensuring that AI usage aligns with our core values of trust, fairness, privacy, and innovation while mitigating risks such as bias, data breaches, and intellectual property issues.

This policy promotes transparency, accountability, and compliance with applicable laws and regulations, including data protection standards like GDPR and CCPA where relevant.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all employees, contractors, vendors, partners, and any other individuals who access or use AI tools on behalf of Mentor & Match Corporation. It covers the use of both generative AI (GenAI) tools (e.g., chatbots like ChatGPT, image generators like DALL-E) and other AI systems (e.g., machine learning models for matching or analytics). This includes:

• Company-provided AI tools
• Third-party or publicly available AI tools used for work-related purposes
• AI integrated into our platforms or services

This policy does not cover personal use of AI outside of work contexts, but any overlap with company data or resources is prohibited.

3. Definitions

• Artificial Intelligence (AI): Technologies that enable machines to perform tasks that typically require human intelligence, such as learning, reasoning, and decision-making.
• Generative AI (GenAI): AI systems that create new content, such as text, images, or code, based on input prompts (e.g., ChatGPT, Bard).
• Algorithmic AI: AI systems that process data for predictions, recommendations, or automation, such as matching algorithms.
• Confidential Information: Includes user data (e.g., profiles, mentorship histories), company trade secrets, intellectual property, and sensitive business information.
• AI Users: Any individuals covered under the scope of this policy who interact with AI tools.

4. Guidelines for AI usage

Do:

• Use AI tools to enhance productivity, such as drafting initial communications, analyzing trends in mentorship data (anonymized), or generating ideas for program improvements
• Always verify AI outputs for accuracy, relevance, and bias before relying on them — human oversight is mandatory, AI is a tool, not a replacement for judgment
• Disclose when AI has been used in creating content or making recommendations, especially in user-facing materials (e.g., "This match suggestion was assisted by AI")
• Report any concerns about AI outputs, such as inaccuracies or potential biases, to your supervisor or the AI Compliance Officer
• Ensure AI usage complies with our diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) principles by actively checking for and mitigating biases in matching or content generation
• Use only approved AI tools (see Section 5) and follow data input guidelines to protect user privacy

Do not:

• Input confidential information, personal user data, or sensitive details into third-party AI tools without explicit approval and encryption measures
• Use AI for employment decisions, such as hiring mentors, evaluating performance, or terminating contracts, to avoid discrimination risks
• Represent AI-generated content as original human work without attribution
• Integrate unapproved AI tools with company systems or software
• Use AI to create deceptive, harmful, discriminatory, or inappropriate content that could damage our reputation or violate laws
• Rely solely on AI for critical decisions in mentorship matching; always incorporate human review to ensure ethical outcomes

5. Approved AI tools and processes

• The IT Department will maintain a list of approved AI tools, updated quarterly. Requests for new tools must be submitted to IT for review, considering security, privacy, and ethical implications.
• Before using an approved tool, obtain access approval from your department head, specifying the intended use.
• All AI development or deployment must undergo an ethics review by the AI Compliance Committee, including bias audits and data privacy assessments.

6. Data privacy and security

• AI usage must adhere to our Data Privacy Policy. Never input personally identifiable information (PII) into external AI tools.
• All AI systems handling user data must be compliant with relevant regulations. Anonymize data where possible.
• Report any suspected data breaches involving AI immediately to the Data Protection Officer.

7. Training and awareness

• All employees will receive annual training on this policy, AI ethics, and best practices.
• Departments using AI extensively (e.g., Matching Operations) will have specialized training on bias detection and ethical AI use.

8. Monitoring and compliance

• The company reserves the right to monitor AI usage to ensure compliance.
• Violations of this policy may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination, and potential legal consequences.
• Questions or reports of violations should be directed to the AI Compliance Officer.

9. Review and updates

This policy will be reviewed annually or as needed to reflect technological advancements, legal changes, or company needs. Feedback from employees is encouraged to improve it.

By adhering to this policy, Mentor & Match Corporation aims to leverage AI responsibly to foster meaningful mentorship connections while safeguarding our community and values.