Skip to content

Bill’s Place Guidelines

General Guidelines


CK Pride is dedicated to creating a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere for all individuals who identify as 2SLGBTQIA+. The main purpose of Bill’s Place is to provide a safe space for programs and services that uplift our diverse community. Bill’s Place also serves as a hub for education, support, networking, and social engagement. 

Respect and Safety: We maintain a zero-tolerance policy towards hate speech, bigotry, and any form of violence. Activities that are illegal are strictly prohibited on our premises. CK Pride reserves the right to deny access to individuals and groups whose actions threaten the safety and well-being of others.

Space Usage and Coordination: Requests for the use of Community Space are managed by the the Operations Committee. A Use of Community Space Agreement must be signed, and compliance with all guidelines is mandatory. Organizers are held accountable for the behavior of all attendees. 

Conflict Resolution: CK Pride commits to working collaboratively and in good faith with all users of the space to address and resolve any conflicts that may arise.

Community Use: Given the limited seating and parking available, priority is given to those participating in scheduled activities. Loitering without involvement in events or support offerings is not permitted.

Terms and Conditions

 

Staff and Clients

  • “Staff” refers to both paid employees of CK Pride and volunteers who have undergone Vulnerable Sector Screening. At least two staff members will be present during public access drop-in hours to ensure safety and support.

  • “Client” includes individuals or groups utilizing Bill’s Place.  

Event Management

  • Parking operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

  • Clients must coordinate with CK Pride prior to their events to ensure proper access and availability.

  • Clients are required to notify staff once their event has concluded and the space has been cleared.

  • The space must only be used for the purposes outlined in the Use of Community Space Agreement.

Security Protocols

  • Compliance with posted guidelines is mandatory.

  • Disruptive individuals will be required to leave.

  • Clients must maintain order and control over their guests throughout the duration of their events.

  • In case of emergencies, clients should ensure all attendees exit the building and call 911 if necessary. In situations requiring shelter-in-place, attendees should use the designated restroom facilities.

  • CK Pride is not liable for theft or damage while parking at Bill’s Place.

Housekeeping

  • Events must end on time, and clients are responsible for restoring cleanliness to the space.

  • Responsibilities include disposing of waste properly, returning furniture to its original arrangement, and returning any equipment loaned by CK Pride.

  • CK Pride will not be held accountable for personal belongings left behind. Any found items will be stored for seven days before being relocated to our Community Cupboard.

  • Clients must handle equipment and furniture with care; fees may apply for any damages incurred.

  • Moving large furniture items requires prior approval from CK Pride.

  • Decorations must be discussed with CK Pride and disposed of after the event.

  • Smoking and vaping are prohibited on-site, in front of the building, or within a 10-foot radius of doorways. However, ceremonial tobacco use is permitted.

Food and Beverage Policy

  • CK Pride does not provide catering services and lacks proper kitchen facilities.

  • Prior approval is required to bring food and beverages (including alcoholic options) into the space for an event.

  • Clients must manage the disposal of food items after their events.

  • Clients are responsible for all necessary supplies unless otherwise negotiated with CK Pride.

  • CK Pride does not serve alcohol and clients must comply with municipal regulations and present any necessary permits.

Delivery Protocols

  • CK Pride is not responsible for any deliveries that have not been pre-arranged.

Access to Premises

  • Clients will have designated access to Bill’s Place. Any additional preparation or cleanup time must be arranged and included in the Use of Community Space Agreement.

Fees and Payment

  • Fees for using the space and equipment will be determined by the Operations Committee. All fees must be paid before the event takes place.

  • This Extraordinary cleaning fees may be imposed at CK Pride’s discretion.

  • Payment can be made via cash, check, or e-transfer (details will be provided by the Operations Committee).

Cancellation Policy

  • Cancellations will incur a non-refundable administrative fee of 25%, though this may be waived at the Board’s discretion.

  • Frequent cancellations could limit future booking opportunities for the client.

Publication and Advertising

  • Activities organized by clients may be listed in CK Pride publications upon request.

Grievance Process

  • Issues that arise during the use of Bill’s Place should first be reported to the staff, who will attempt to resolve them.

  • If the issue remains unresolved, written complaints can be submitted to the attention of the Operations Committee (info@ckpride.com), who will investigate and respond within two weeks.

  • Appeals regarding the Operations Committee determination may be submitted to the attention of the Board of Directors (info@ckpride.com) within seven days, detailing the reasons for the appeal. A written final determination will be issued within two weeks.

Liability

  • Clients agree to indemnify CK Pride from any liabilities incurred during their use of the space.

  • Certificates of insurance may be required for certain events.

Role of CK Pride Staff & Directors

 

To uphold the integrity of our mission and ensure that we provide the best experience possible, it is essential to understand that:

 

Scope: CK Pride staff and Directors are dedicated advocates for the rights and well-being of 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals. They are responsible for organizing events and directing community resources, with a primary focus on engagement, education, support, and advocacy.

 

Managing Expectations: While CK Pride staff and Directors possess valuable skills and can offer a listening ear as peers, they are not trained counselors, clinicians, or therapists and cannot provide mental health services. By respecting these boundaries, we ensure the safety and well-being of all individuals involved.

Prohibited Activities & Behaviour

 


Unacceptable behaviours include, but are not limited to:


  • Abusive conduct, including racist, sexist, homophobic, or otherwise demeaning language. 

  • Any form of physical violence or threats.

  • Actions that jeopardize the safety of individuals or groups.

  • Unsolicited sexual language, gestures, or actions. 

  • Financial solicitation. 

  • Sale or use of illegal substances, as well as public intoxication. 

  • Possession or use of illegal weapons. 

  • Theft, vandalism, or threats thereof. 

  • Inappropriate restroom conduct, excessive noise, disruptive behaviour, or interference with walkways. 

  • Distribution of literature that has not been pre-approved.

  • Recording or photographing without consent. 

  • Ignoring directives from staff or volunteers.

Service Animals Policy

 

CK Pride adheres to the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 (AODA). Certified service animals are welcome in all areas of Bill’s Place. Staff will refrain from interacting with service animals unless assistance is required.   Non-certified “therapy” or “support” animals are not permitted unless allowed for a special event.

Brave Space Guidelines

 

B – Be accountable for the impact of both our words and our silence as it affects others. If you’re asked to stop something, please do so – others may have triggers you’re not aware of.

R – Reflect on and name your own biases, recognize your own traumas, and be responsible for your own emotional well being. Bill’s Place is a community space of peers, not a mental health service.

A – Actively listen by being present, open minded, and respectful to differing viewpoints while striving to understand rather than simply reacting or judging.

V – Verbalize questions that arise from our curiosity and learning with patience and compassion.

E – Embrace new ideas with a spirit of inquiry and wonder. Different opinions make us diverse and beautiful.